Did you know that approximately 10 million cataract operations are performed each year in the world, with rates varying from 100 to 6000 operations per million population per year? Cataract eye surgery replaces your natural lens with a clear artificial one to help eliminate blurry vision or seeing colours as less vivid. After cataract surgery, you are able to see clearly again!
Doing your research, talking to your eye doctor and being informed about the surgery you are undergoing is a great way to prepare for the day of your eye surgery. This way, you will feel more comfortable knowing you have all the information you need.
Here are four things you may want to consider doing to help you prepare for your cataract surgery.
1. Stay Informed
There are various types of cataract surgeries available in different eye surgery clinics. At BoydVision, we want our patients to be aware of what procedures are best suited for them.
The various cataract eye surgery procedures include:
- Phacoemulsification: This is the most common type of cataract eye surgery. A tiny incision is made in the eye to break up the cloudy lens, the small pieces are then gently removed and replaced with the cataract lens implant.
- Extracapsular extraction: Similar to the Phacoemulsification procedure, an incision is made to break up the cloudy lens and is replaced with the lens implant. The incision for this procedure is slightly larger and therefore requires stitches.
- Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS): This cataract surgery uses laser technology to replace the cloudy lens with an artificial lens.
2. Do not wear contact lenses
Speak to your doctor about wearing contact lenses leading up to your cataract surgery. We usually recommend clients not wear contact lenses as they could irritate the eyes, postponing your surgery. If necessary, switch to wearing glasses for at least three days before the surgery and give your eyes some rest.
3. Use prescribed eye drops
You may be prescribed antibiotic drops to be used after your cataract surgery. Your doctor will discuss how and when these should be used, and be sure to ask any questions if you are unclear. Follow the instructions you are given to prevent any infections. Bring the drops with you on the day of your surgery as you may need them then too.
4. Prepare for your recovery
You should have a friend or family member come in with you on the day of your surgery. They should wait for you during your cataract surgery procedure and then drive you home, as you will be medicated. Bring a pair of dark, non-prescription sunglasses with you on the day of your surgery. You should also give yourself at least two to three days to recover from the eye surgery.
For any cataract eye surgery questions, our friendly team at BoydVision is always here to help! Get in touch by booking a consultation with our experienced surgeon or submitting your questions online; we would be happy to assist you.