3 Things to Consider Before Having Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is the most safe type of surgery you can have. This is because it is so common that many surgeons are very skilled at it. Every year, more than 3.5 million cataract procedures are performed in the US. There is no time pressure unlike other types of surgery. You have the freedom to decide how your surgery will go.

Lens options

Cataract surgery involves removing the cataract-clouded lens from your eye and replacing it with an artificial one. The artificial lens becomes permanent.

There are many options for replacement lenses.

• Fixed focal mono-focal lenses. These lenses can be used to help you see from a distance but will not work well if you need to close up.
• Accommodating mono-focal lenses. These lenses can be used to switch between close-up and far-off vision. They are similar to natural lenses. These lenses are not always reliable for close work.

Toric lenses. These lenses can be used for astigmatism patients and may eliminate the need to wear glasses.

• Multifocal These lenses have different areas for close and distance vision, similarly to bifocal lenses in glasses. However, they can distort bright lights.

Choosing a surgeon

When choosing a surgeon, it is important to find one that has been recommended by your doctor and has worked with the type you desire. You might also consider searching for cataract surgery in your area. After the surgery, you will need to be able to return home and have close contact with family and friends to help you recover.

When is the best time?

Cataracts affect only the lens of your eye. The condition is not likely to spread or cause further damage if it isn’t treated immediately. Your vision will get cloudier as cataracts grow across your eyes. However, the outcomes of cataract surgery will remain the same regardless of when you have them.

Some things to consider:

• If you are unable to drive, it is a good idea not to have your surgery scheduled before your vision becomes too impaired.

If you have concerns about surgery or if this is going to impact your life, it is a good idea for you to schedule the surgery as soon possible.

• Everyone heals differently from cataract surgery. While some people see clear vision in a matter of hours, others may need to wait up to a week before seeing clear again. It is a good idea that you schedule your surgery so that you have a few weeks to recover from the procedure.

If you have cataracts in both your eyes, your doctor may recommend that you first have surgery in one eye and let it heal before proceeding to the second eye. This is to ensure that your eye is not permanently damaged during surgery. This is a good thing to keep in mind as you plan your surgery.

If you have other eye conditions, they will need to be considered when planning your surgery. Some conditions, such as cataracts, are more difficult to treat. Your doctor may ask you to have your surgery done as soon as possible.

jbenson@innovisionhm.com



source https://ihomenews.com/3-things-to-consider-before-having-cataract-surgery/