Cataract Surgery FAQs
The cataract surgeons at Eye Surgery Associates use current state-of-the-art methods and instrumentation to perform cataract surgery. A small incision technique is used that does not require sutures or an injection. Through this small incision, the cloudy lens is removed by an ultrasonic instrument which allows the lens to be removed through a 2-3 millimeter incision. A clear, foldable artificial lens is placed inside the eye to replace the lens that was removed. This technique reduces post-operative discomfort, shortens stays in the operating room, and improves post-operative recoveries with a return to normal daily activities within a day or two after surgery for most patients.
Recovery from cataract surgery is generally very quick, with most patients achieving noticeably better vision within the first 1 to 2 days of the procedure. Patients are generally asked to use two different eye medications, administered as drops several times daily for the first few weeks after surgery. It is important that during the first 7 post-operative days patients refrain from strenuous activity such as lifting weights for exercise or lifting other heavy objects. Patients should also refrain from eye rubbing during the first few weeks following surgery.
The technology for determining the proper lens implant for your eye has become highly refined and many people after cataract surgery can perform regular daily activities even without glasses. Nonetheless, with a standard artificial lens implant it is common to need glasses after surgery for best possible vision. Most patients will still need glasses for near vision tasks such as reading and some will need them for distance viewing (such as driving). If interested in reducing the need for glasses after surgery please inquire about our intraocular lens options. If needed, glasses will usually be prescribed three to four weeks after surgery when full recovery is expected. If both eyes are scheduled to have surgery within a few weeks of each other, then glasses, if needed, will be prescribed following full recovery of the second eye.
