If you've recently been diagnosed with severe cataracts, your eye doctor has likely recommended surgery to remove the cataracts and improve your vision. If you're feeling nervous about your upcoming procedure, that's perfectly normal. However, understand that cataract surgery is very common and recovery time is relatively short.
The best way to prepare for your surgery is to ask your eye doctor for specific guidance. However, there are a few things that most eye doctors will recommend doing in the days leading up to your surgery that can help things go more smoothly.
Arrange a Ride Home
You will not be able to drive home after your surgery, so you'll want to make sure you have a ride home already arranged. Ideally, the person who is driving you home will come with you to your appointment and remain in the waiting room for the duration of the procedure. The surgery itself typically only takes about 20 minutes, though you may need to fill out some paperwork before and afterward.
Take Time Off Work
While it can take a few weeks to fully recover from a cataract surgery, most patients find that they are free of noticeable side effects within a few days after the procedure. Still, you'll want to plan to take some time off from work so you have the time you need to recover. You may also want to find somebody to help you out with some basic things around the house, like preparing meals and tending to yard work.
Use Eye Drops as Instructed
In some cases, you may need to take prescription eye drops prior to your surgery. If your doctor has prescribed these to you, make sure you're taking them as instructed. If you have any questions about using your eye drops, be sure to talk to your eye doctor right away.
Refrain From Food and Drink
Do not consume any alcohol the night before your procedure. Your doctor will probably also advise you not to eat or drink the morning of your surgery. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions to ensure that your surgery goes as smoothly as possible.
While any surgery is something to be taken seriously, the good news is that cataract surgery is very common and complications are rare. By taking the proper steps to prepare for your procedure, you'll be in and out of your doctor's office in no time. For more information about eye cataract surgery, speak with a professional.
When you open your eyes in the morning, you enjoy a fresh look at the world around you. If you want to protect your eyes and ensure you always get to enjoy that wonderful morning view, then you really need to see an optometrist regularly. These eye doctors will assess your vision, detect issues early on, and recommend glasses or contacts, if needed, to ensure you're able to see sharply. The work of optometrists is important and meaningful, and we are happy to honor it on this website. Read the articles we've collected for more insight into this world of vision.