Cataract surgery can be scary. After all, there are many unknowns, even with a common procedure. If cataract surgery has been recommended by your eye doctor, you may have questions.
Kiss your fears goodbye by checking out these cataract FAQs from Loden Vision Centers!
Can I drive myself home from cataract surgery?
Like most surgeries or procedures, you cannot drive yourself home after cataract surgery. Although you are not put under during the procedure, your eyes will be dilated and numbed.
These are a necessary part of cataract surgery. Since you can’t drive yourself home, make sure to find yourself a ride who can drive you to our office and home.
Can cataract surgery be performed on both eyes on the same day?
Unlike a procedure like LASIK, both eyes are not treated at the same time for cataract surgery. It is uncommon to have simultaneous bilateral cataract surgery.
Usually, only one cataract will be removed at a time. Though rare, most cataract surgeons may express concern of complications or infection. If both eyes were to get infected at the same time, it could lead to serious vision complications.
What kind of IOL is best?
This is a decision for you to make, and we are more than happy to discuss your options with you. Choosing an IOL is a personal choice for every cataract patient. Before deciding, be sure to take your needs and expectations into consideration.
Are you happy wearing reading glasses for up-close vision as long as you can see clearly while driving? Or do you prefer not to be dependent on corrective lenses after cataract surgery? These questions can help you come to the right decision about an IOL.
Will cataract surgery hurt?
You can rest easy knowing that cataract surgery isn’t painful! It actually results only in minimal discomfort for patients. Before the procedure, your cataract surgeon will put numbing drops in your eyes. After surgery, it is not uncommon to experience mild discomfort.
Your eyes may feel scratchy or irritated, and you could have a headache. Most of these symptoms go away after the first 24 hours. If you’re in severe pain for any reason, you should let your cataract surgeon know immediately. Feeling any kind of severe pain is a rare occurrence and could be a sign of a complication.
Will I be able to see right away?
Most patients see well enough to get cleared to drive the day after cataract surgery. However, all patients are different, so don’t drive if you don’t feel up to it! Your cataract surgeon will clear you once it’s safe again.
Do I need to wear glasses after cataract surgery?
This depends on which IOL you choose, as well as on the general health and condition of your eyes. If you don’t mind glasses, a monofocal IOL may be best.
Monofocal IOLs provide only distance vision, not close up vision. This is the only IOL that Medicaid covers as well. These patients will need reading glasses after cataract surgery.
If you want to see without glasses, a premium IOL will be necessary. These IOLs are more expensive, but they can allow you to live a life free from glasses!
Not sure if you have cataracts or need cataract surgery? Contact Loden Vision Centers in Nashville for a cataract appointment today!
