If you have been diagnosed with cataracts, surgery is the only safe and effective way to restore the clarity of your vision. Approximately 3 million Americans undergo cataract surgery every year, making it one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the country.
While the surgery is quick and complications are rare, careful preparation can help you feel less anxious and more confident about your surgery and recovery. Keep reading to learn five of the best ways to prepare for cataract surgery.
1. Learn About Your IOL Options
During cataract surgery, the natural lens of the eye affected by cataracts is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Depending on the lens you choose, cataract surgery can be an opportunity to improve your vision at multiple distances.
The standard IOL used during cataract surgery is a monofocal lens, which can improve vision at a single distance, typically far. Opting for a premium IOL can help you reduce or eliminate your reliance on glasses and contacts at two or more distances.
Rosenthal Eye Surgery offers a wide selection of premium IOLs, including the Light Adjustable Lens, TECNIS Odyssey, and Eyhance. During your preoperative consultation, your cataract surgeon will help you select the best lens for your budget, medical history, visual needs, and lifestyle goals.
2. Ask About Adjusting Your Medications
Certain medications can interfere with your eyes’ ability to heal or increase the risk of complications. Your ophthalmologist may require you to temporarily stop taking specific drugs, such as blood thinners or eye drops for glaucoma.
You may be asked to start using prescription antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops a few days before your surgery. These eye drops should be used as prescribed to ensure your eyes are healthy on the day of your procedure.
3. Arrange Transportation
You won’t be able to drive yourself home after cataract surgery, so you will need to arrange for transportation ahead of time. While cataract surgery usually requires only local anesthesia and minimal sedation, your vision will be blurry for at least a few hours after the procedure.
If you live alone, you may also want to arrange for someone to stay with you, at least for a few hours, upon your return home. You may need help with household tasks or managing medications as your vision slowly clears.
4. Plan for Your Recovery
While recovery from cataract surgery is typically quick and uncomplicated, some pre-planning is advisable. Planning ahead and being prepared can help reduce stress and enable a faster recovery.
You can prepare by filling any prescriptions you might need, stocking your fridge and pantry with easy-to-prepare and nutritious foods, and creating comfortable areas to rest throughout your home. You should also ensure that your home is well-lit and clutter-free to prevent minor accidents, such as tripping, that can impact your recovery.
5. Wear Comfortable Clothing and No Makeup
On the day of your surgery, you should wear loose, comfortable clothing with a button-down or zip-up top. You’ll want to choose something easy to get in and out of to avoid putting pressure on your eyes after surgery.
You should not wear any makeup, face creams, or serums, or apply perfume. These products can increase your risk of irritation and infection if they come into contact with your eyes during or after surgery.
Reclaim Your Vision with Cataract Surgery
If the symptoms of cataracts have compromised your vision, surgery can help you see clearly again. By taking the time to prepare for your cataract surgery, you can help ensure the procedure goes smoothly, lower your risk of complications, and increase your comfort during recovery.
Get personalized cataract surgery preparation guidelines when you schedule an appointment at Rosenthal Eye Surgery in Long Island, NY, today!
