Cataract Surgery Do’s And Don’ts

November 12th, 2018

Cataract surgery is a very fast and straightforward operation. It’s been performed millions of times and is one of the safest medical procedures.

However, it is still a surgery and comes with risks to consider. When you select an eye surgeon, you are putting a large amount of trust into someone else to take care of your eyes.

There are plenty of things that you can do to help ensure a successful recovery. Keep reading for Laser Eye Center’s list of cataract surgery do’s and don’ts!

Do: Attend A Cataract Removal Screening

Before you can get surgery, you will need to undergo a cataract evaluation. During this preoperative exam, you will receive a comprehensive eye exam. The comprehensive eye exam gives your surgeon most of the information they need.

These exams include a visual acuity test, pupil dilation, and an evaluation of your eyes. After the exam, your cataract surgeon will discuss what to expect during the surgery. You’ll also discuss what to expect while you are recovering from cataract surgery.

Don’t: Miss Your Post Operation Checkups

After you finish cataract surgery you will go home and rest. Before that happens, you’ll attend a post-cataract removal surgery follow-up appointment. You may need to attend several more over the course of your recovery.

These are important because they allow the doctor to assess your recovery. If your eyes are not healing as they should, your doctor will want to detect any problems quickly.

Do: Follow All Recovery Instructions Given By Your Surgeon

Any medications such as eye drops or sunglasses given to you by your surgeon need to be used as directed. Your eyes are very sensitive after surgery.

Make sure to take all medications and instructions as directed! Following these instructions will reduce your chances of infection or complications.

Don’t: Rub Your Eyes After Surgery

Rubbing your eyes is not good for them, but after surgery, it can be disastrous. Part of cataract surgery is making a hinged flap in your cornea. This flap creation occurs so that the surgeon can remove the cloudy lens.

When this flap is set back down it is not sealed with stitches. It is instead left to reattach itself over time. This promotes fast recovery but leaves your eye in a very vulnerable position.

Your eyes will likely be itchy and irritated after the surgery. Use over the counter eye drops as often as you can even if your eyes are not itchy. The eye drops are crucial because they reduce the chance of infection or inflammation.

Cataract surgery doesn’t have to be a scary procedure! When you’re prepared with this list of do’s and don’ts, it can even be exciting! Imagine having clear vision again after dealing with diminished vision from cataracts!

Come to see us at either of our Laser Vision Center locations in Huntsville and Decatur, AL! Ready to schedule your cataract screening evaluation? Contact us today to learn more about cataract surgery removal options available! You don’t have to live with vision loss from cataracts!