If you are preparing for the cataract surgery to get rid of blurry vision. We will share the important things you should consider before and after cataract surgery. In this post ( Top 10 things I wish I knew before cataract surgery) we will discuss how to prepare yourself for cataract surgery, medications, food habits to avoid, and training your eyes after cataract surgery.

Top 10 things I wish I knew before cataract surgery

1. Understanding Cataract: Cataract disease makes the eye lens cloudy and thus increases blurriness while you view objects in low light. In addition to this, it also makes your eye in pain when you see objects in low light and during high brightness. When you feel pain and difficulty viewing the objects and if it affects your daily activities, it is important to undergo cataract surgery.
   
   
2.  Accurate Timings: It usually depends upon the individual eye how progressively the cataract is spreading. It is recommended to go to your Ophthalmologist (eye specialist) to get a better understanding of how cataract is affecting your vision and about when to go for cataract surgery.
   
   
3. Selection of Intraocular Lens (IOL): It is important to select the correct IOL that is guided by your Ophthalmologist as there are different types of IOLs. One example of IOL is the Monofocal lens which corrects the distance vision. Multifocal also called accommodating IOL corrects the range of vision specifically it reduces the need for glasses after surgery. There is another type of IOL Toric IOL which corrects astigmatism.
   
   
4. Pre-Surgery Preparation: Your surgeon will guide you on how you have to prepare yourself before you go through the cataract surgery. For example, if you are already taking some medications, your surgeon can confirm if you still need to take them or not required. You will also be informed about fasting, which means what products/eatables you have to take and what you shouldn’t.
   
5. Surgical Process: The Cataract surgery process is a very quick and fast process. It is usually completed in 15-30 minutes. It involves making a small incision in the cornea of the eye and that helps in the brokerage of the cloudy lens which can be removed using ultrasound (phacoemulsification). After this process, the correct IOL lens is inserted into the eye where the natural lens is placed.
   
   
6. Risk and Complications: While cataract surgery is considered as safest surgery some risks and complications can be seen while performing the surgery. It includes infection, inflammation, bleeding, retinal detachment etc. These risks should be discussed with your eye surgeon and he can guide you about the possible sign of complications that needs immediate attention and medications.
   

• Recovery Period: After your surgery, your eye will be covered with some protective shield which can protect your eyes from dust and other particles. You can feel or experience some etching in your eyes but this is normal and can be corrected with eye drops recommended by your eye surgeon. You can feel vision improvement within a few days of your surgery but it may take a few weeks to stabilize it completely.
  
  
• Driving and Flying Restrictions: In the initial stages after the cataract surgery, you will experience some blurriness and sensitivity. So your surgeon will advise you when you can resume driving. It is also good not to travel either by road or by air until your eye vision is stabilized and you feel comfortable with your vision. Once you feel comfortable only then you can fly after cataract surgery. For more details check Can you fly after cataract surgery?
  
  
• Lifestyle Adjustment: It is very important to stay away from some indoor and outdoor activities that can put pressure on your eyes for example avoid direct light into your eyes. Some outdoor activities include heavy lifting, bending over and strenuous exercise. Stay in touch with your eye surgeon regularly regarding the guidance and instructions on when you can resume your normal daily activities. You also have to be serious about your diet options. There are some food items which you shouldn’t eat after the cataract surgery as they can delay your healing process. Read More about what to eat and what shouldn’t after cataract surgery
  
  
• Follow-up Visits: Once your cataract surgery is done it is your responsibility to regularly visit and schedule an appointment with your doctor for checkups and to monitor your healing process and if your new lens is functioning properly or if there is any need for more treatment. You should schedule these appointments with your doctor every week or so.
  
  
• Cost Considerations: Cataract surgery treatment can be covered by Medicare and private insurance companies plans. In addition to this, some additional costs can also be considered which depend upon the type of IOL lens you require as per your eye condition along with pre-existing eye conditions which require some additional treatment however it depends upon person-to-person eye health conditions.
  
  
• Long-Term Care : Generally artificial lens which are implanted during the surgery require no special care but it is also important to schedule an appointment with your doctor for regular checks-ups and to monitor your eye health to see if there is any concern or if any treatment is required.
  
  
• Training Eyes after cataract surgery: For faster recovery and quick healing process it is important to train your eyes and perform eye exercises daily. This will help you in your better eye vision and make your eyes healthy. Along with better vision, there are some other benefits of training your eyes and doing exercise daily for example it can increase your contrast sensitivity, improve depth perception and clear your night vision to some extent.

How do I decide if it’s time for cataract surgery?

It is recommended that whenever you see any symptoms of cataract in your eyes, please go to the eye specialist doctor (Ophthalmologist) and take advice. Below are the common symptoms of cataracts:-

Symptoms of Cataract

• Clouded or blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Difficulty reading or watching TV
• Age-related macular degeneration
• Diabetes-related retinopathy

Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can significantly improve your vision and overall well-being. By understanding these key aspects before undergoing surgery, you can approach the procedure with confidence and achieve the best possible outcome for your eyesight. Always consult with your eye care professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

FAQ’s for Things I Wish I knew Before Cataract Surgery

Reviewed By

Dr. Sonam Aggarwal
MBBS, MD(Community Medicine)