Cataract surgery is the most common eye procedure worldwide, with over six million Americans having had cataract surgery. With people living longer and life expectancies increasing, it’s estimated that the more than four million cataract surgeries performed annually in the U.S. will double within the next 15-20 years.
What is a cataract?
Put simply, a cataract is a progressive condition that causes the natural lens in your eye to become cloudy, resulting in blurry or hazy vision—as if you are looking through a dirty windshield.
As a cataract grows, you might experience additional symptoms, such as double vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light, fading or yellowing of colors, or seeing halos around lights.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a cataract and are considering cataract surgery, we’ve outlined what you can expect before, during, and after your procedure.
What to expect before cataract surgery
Before your surgery, you’ll meet with your ophthalmologist so they can take measurements of your eyes. The measurements are painless and performed via ultrasound. They will help determine what kind of intraocular lens you need to improve your vision.
- Dietary or medication changes. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on preparing for surgery, including dietary restrictions and medication guidelines. You may be prescribed antibiotic eye drops before your surgery to reduce the risk of infection.
- Arrange transportation. Cataract surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning you can return home on the same day as your surgery. Your vision will be temporarily impaired, so you’ll need to arrange to have someone bring you to and from your appointment.
- Check insurance coverage. While most insurance plans cover cataract removal surgery, it’s always a good idea to confirm with your provider prior to surgery day.
What happens during cataract surgery
Your ophthalmologist will give you eyedrops to dilate your pupils and a local anesthetic. You may also be given a sedative to help you relax. You will still be awake during the surgery but groggy and should not feel any pain.
During your surgery, your ophthalmologist will remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial lens, using microsurgical instruments and an operating microscope for the most advanced form of cataract surgery, called phacoemulsification.
The intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted in place of your natural lens. There are a variety of IOLs available for different needs and eye conditions. The tiny incision (about 3 millimeters, less than 1/8 inch) requires no stitches or patches.
The actual procedure typically lasts less than 15 minutes.
Post-cataract surgery procedures to know
Recovery from a cataract removal is typically quick. Still, it’s important to listen to the advice of your ophthalmologist and follow their instructions to ensure there are no post-surgery complications.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Post-surgery eye shield. You’ll need to wear a shield or patch over the affected eye for the first few hours following your procedure. This protects your eyes from light sensitivity, rubbing, or debris while they begin the healing process. Some patients may need to wear a shield while sleeping for the first few nights.
- Eye drops. Your ophthalmologist will prescribe you eyedrops to help prevent infection. To protect your eyes, follow their instructions carefully.
- Avoid strenuous activities. You should avoid any activity that might cause pressure on your eye, such as lifting heavy objects or bending over. Your ophthalmologist will provide information on your post-surgery activity level.
- Appointments. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled before you leave. If you have any questions before that day, be sure and call the office.
- Unstable vision improvements. Many patients will begin to experience much clearer vision within a couple of days of the procedure. However, it is normal to experience some mild discomfort, light sensitivity, or blurry vision. It can take weeks for your vision to fully stabilize.
Cataract removal at Iowa Eye Center
Our Iowa Eye Center surgeons have performed thousands of cataract surgeries over the past three decades. If you have questions about cataract surgery, call us at (319) 362-3937 to set up an appointment.
