Cataract Questions
Common Questions Pertaining to Cataract Surgery or (phacoemulsification)
What is a Cataract?
A cataract is a progressive clouding of the natural crystalline lens of the eye. The lens will become opaque, or cloudy and light will be prevented from entering the eye. Symptoms will include difficulty driving at night, dimming color patterns, and increased blurry vision that might be confused with focusing problems. Everyone will experience cataracts if they live long enough but this clouding of the lens can occur at different points in time for various individuals.
How is a Cataract Diagnosed?
The eye doctors at Glaucoma-Cataract Consultants will perform a thorough examination of your eyes. Various pre-operative testing including glare testing and contrast sensitivity tests will be initiated. Depending on the actual stage of the cataract we will determine if surgery is necessary. If you feel that you may be experiencing the preliminary stages of a progressing cataract please call us to set up an immediate appointment.
What are the Main Types of Cataract?
There are mainly three types of cataract:
- A nuclear cataract (MOST common form developed from the adult aging process)
- A subcapsular cataract
- A cortical cataract
How Long Does Cataract Surgery Take?
You will be in our facility at Glaucoma-Cataract Consultants for about two-three hours. You will be in the operating room for about twenty minutes, and the procedure itself will take about ten minutes. After surgery, you will rest in comfort while you recover from the initial surgery before going home.
Will I Feel Any Discomfort During Cataract Surgery?
A nurse anesthetist will administer mild sedation to relax you and place eye drops to numb your eyes before the procedure.
Can I Wear my Contacts Until the Day of Cataract Surgery?
No, your contact lenses may change some of the measurements we take before the surgery. The staff at Glaucoma-Cataract Consultants will make sure you are given the proper instructions for the time period that we will need you out of your contact lenses.
Are There Any Restrictions After Cataract Surgery?
No heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 1 week after surgery. We advise our patients to not lift anything over 15-20 lbs for the immediate 24 hours after the cataract surgery. Do not rub your eye and do not get your eye wet. You should also avoid driving and alcoholic beverages for twenty-four hours. We advise you to postpone showering until after you see the doctor the next day.
