On the day of surgery
Is surgery done in a hospital?
The entire procedure is generally done on an outpatient basis.
Will I be awake during surgery? Is it painful?
You will be fully awake, but you will be comfortable and feel no pain. Local or topical anesthesia will be used.
How long does the procedure take?
Cataract surgery usually lasts between 15 to 20 minutes. After a short observation period you will be allowed to go home.
Can I drive myself home?
Plan to have someone else drive you home after surgery.
How do I take care of my eye after surgery?
The surgeon will usually place an eye patch or protective shield on your eye after surgery. Avoid rubbing or pressing on your eye. Your doctor may also prescribe eye drops or other medication to prevent infection and control eye pressure. These should be used as prescribed and care taken not to touch the eye with the dropper. Your eye may be sensitive to the touch and feel irritated. This is not unusual.
What activities can I do after I return home on the day of surgery?
Relax and avoid strenuous activities, such as bending over or lifting. Don’t overexert your eyes. Give them time to rest.
When is it necessary to immediately contact my doctor?
• Sudden or persistent pain in the operated eye
• Any unusual headaches and nausea
• Heavy reddening of the operated eye
• “Eye floaters” or shadows in the eye
The first days after surgery
When will I have to visit my doctor after surgery?
In most circumstances, you will return to your doctor’s office for a follow-up visit within the first days of receiving a monofocal IOL. To monitor your healing, you will typically see your eye doctor again after approximately one month.
What activities can I do the days following surgery?
You should be able to resume most normal activities, including light work, watching television, and reading within a day of your surgery. Avoid activities that put pressure on your eye or can cause a rise in your blood pressure.
How can I protect my eye in the days after surgery?
• Do not rub the operated eye and avoid activities where there is a risk of blunt trauma to the eye.
• Wear sunglasses or other protective eyewear and avoid dusty environments for the first couple of weeks.
• Avoid direct contact with water in the operated eye. If you do get water in the operated eye, it is important not to rub the eye.
• Check with your eye doctor, when, and under what conditions, you can resume specific physical activities. |
