What To Expect After Cataract Surgery
Posted on: 16 February 2015
Do you have cataracts or have a family member with cataracts? Will you be going in for cataract surgery soon? Whether you'll be talking to the ophthalmologist about it or you've already discussed the surgery with them, here is some useful and interesting information that you might like to know about what to expect:
Local anesthesia: One of the most popular cataract surgeries today, called phacoemulsification, frequently uses only a local anesthetic. If the patient is nervous about this and don't want to see the surgery happening, the ophthalmologist may also offer general anesthesia as an option. If the surgery is performed under local anesthesia only, the ophthalmologist will use several different anesthetics to both immobilize the eye or eyes and to ensure that no pain is felt during the procedure.
Regular checkups: The patient will need to make time in their schedule for regular visits to the ophthalmologist after their cataract surgery. They will want the patient to come in once or twice a week so that they can monitor how the incisions are healing. Depending on how fast the patient heals, they may need to make these visits for a month or two. Keeping these appointments is integral to making sure that the eyes continue to function as well as they are able to.
Eyeglasses: After surgery, vision may be so improved that you or your loved one no longer feels the need to wear glasses. However, the ophthalmologist may still recommend that eyeglasses continue to be worn. They will fit the patient with a new prescription that matches their new visual ability.
In addition to helping to correct any lingering visual issues, these glasses will help to protect the patient's eyes from various dirt and debris. The ophthalmologist will tell the patient how long they will need to continue wearing the glasses and when they'll be able to set them aside if they feel like they are unnecessary.
Complications: Although modern cataract surgery has a high probability of success, some complications are still possible. Infection may occur after any type of surgery, but cataract surgery may also result in changes in eye pressure or vision loss. The patient may also need to have cataract surgery again, in order to replace or reposition the artificial lens. The ophthalmologist may also discuss other potential complications, depending on the health of the patient beforehand.
While cataract surgery can be scary to some people, having this information can help to ease the mind of you and your loved ones. Having cataract surgery can be an uplifting experience, freeing the recipient from needing to rely on other people to assist with daily tasks. Go to http://www.drgrantmdretinalspecialist.com for more information.
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