Four Ways Your Cataract Doctor Can Help Prepare You For Cataract Surgery

When you get a cataract, it means that the lens of your eye has become cloudy. You may have difficulty seeing clearly and also have trouble with glare or light sensitivity. Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial lens that restores vision.

Here are four ways your cataract doctor can help prepare you for cataract surgery:

1. Your Cataract Doctor Can Discuss Different Treatment Options For You Before Cataract Surgery 

When you meet with your doctor before cataract surgery, they can perform a thorough examination of your vision and your eye health. Then they can discuss treatment options with you so that you can decide which is best for you. For example, if you have a cataract that is causing only mild vision problems, it may be possible to correct it with a lens implant rather than surgery to remove the natural lens. If you have glaucoma, your doctor may recommend laser treatment for this condition before cataract surgery.

2. Your Cataract Doctor Can Discuss The Risks And Benefits Of Cataract Surgery

The benefits of cataract surgery include relief from blurred vision, better night vision and improved ability to watch television or drive. But there are also risks involved in any surgical procedure, including cataract surgery. For example, you may experience pain or irritation after the procedure. This is generally mild and tends to go away within a few days. However, if you have an eye condition such as glaucoma, your doctor will recommend other treatment options before considering cataract surgery.

3. Your Cataract Doctor Can Discuss Any Previous Eye Conditions Or Health Problems Before Cataract Surgery 

If you have a history of eye problems or other health issues, your doctor will want to know about it before performing cataract surgery. For example, you might be prone to infections or have diabetes, high blood pressure or a heart condition that can affect your eyesight. In these cases, your doctor may recommend that you wait to have cataract surgery until these conditions are under control. 

4. Your Cataract Doctor Can Let You Know What To Expect After Your Cataract Surgery 

Your doctor will help you understand what to expect after cataract surgery. You'll likely have some discomfort in your eye, and your vision may be blurry for a day or two. You may also experience inflammation or swelling of the cornea (the clear covering over the iris), which is normal and temporary. Your doctor can provide you with directions on how to care for your eyes after surgery as well as eye drops or other medications that may help reduce pain or swelling.

When you are considering cataract surgery, you want to make sure that you are fully prepared for the procedure. Chat with a cataract doctor for more information about cataract surgery.