Cataract surgery is a quick and effective outpatient procedure that can restore vision affected by cataracts. The actual procedure can be completed in about 15 – 20 minutes per eye and boasts an impressively high success rate with minimal risk of complications.
Keep reading to learn more about what to expect during cataract surgery with the best cataract surgeons in Bloomington!
How Do I Know If I Need Cataract Surgery?
Cataracts are a natural part of aging and usually begin to form in your forties, but can occur at any time in your life. Certain medications and medical conditions can affect when you begin to develop cataracts. When first diagnosed with cataracts, your vision may not be significantly affected.
However, once your cataract symptoms begin to interfere with your everyday life, it may be time for cataract surgery. There is no need to wait to have cataract surgery until your vision is poor; if they affect your day-to-day life, it’s likely time to have them removed.
What Happens on the Day of Cataract Surgery?
You will need to arrive at Eastland Medical Plaza about an hour prior to your cataract surgery. Cataract surgery itself only takes a few minutes but be prepared to spend a few hours at the surgery center that day.
You will be given a mild sedative to help you relax, as well as eye drops to numb the surface of your eye. A small instrument is placed between your eyelids to keep you from blinking.
Your cataract surgeon will make a tiny incision in the front of your eye, or if you chose to have laser cataract surgery, the laser will make the opening.
This area is called the cornea, and it is the transparent dome that allows light to enter the eye. That incision will enable them to reach your eye’s natural lens, where the cataract is.
Next, an ultrasonic instrument will gently break the lens into tiny fragments and your surgeon will remove all the pieces with gentle suction. Through the same opening, your surgeon will insert an artificial lens to replace your natural lens and restore clear vision.
Depending on the lens you choose at your pre-operative appointment, you may be able to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contacts after surgery.
Following the Procedure
After surgery, you may be sent home with a patch covering your eye (you will be given instructions if you are required to wear a patch.) You will need to begin your eye drops after your procedure to prevent infection and control inflammation.
You will be given a pair of dark, protective sunglasses to protect your eyes while outside. You will not be able to drive yourself after surgery, so make prior arrangements to have someone take you home.
Make sure you follow all your eye doctor’s care instructions, including attending your post-op visits and remembering to instill your eye drops as instructed to ensure a smooth recovery.
Recovery After Cataract Surgery
Once you get home, you will likely want to rest for a few hours instead of watching TV or reading. You will not be able to swim or wear eye make up for two weeks and will not be able to lift anything over 20lbs for one week.
Although it may take up to a few weeks to completely recover, most people can resume their everyday routine within a few days. Your eye doctor will advise you on how to best care for your eyes during recovery.
Restore Your Vision with Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery allows you to experience clear vision. The talented surgeons at VisionPoint Eye Center regularly perform cataract surgery with excellent outcomes.
Do you want to learn more about what to expect during cataract surgery? Schedule your cataract screening at VisionPoint Eye Center in Bloomington, IL today.
