Giving Cataract Surgery the Care It Needs

Although cataract removal is the most common surgery performed in the United States and is a relatively simple procedure, the fact that it is a surgery means the utmost care should be taken in the days leading up to it, as well as the day of your surgical appointment. Recovery instructions are important as well. You want the best possible outcome for your precious vision, which will in turn give you a positive look and attitude about life.

Your Houston cataract surgery doctor will give you very specific instructions you must follow. It is important that you disclose to him any prescription medications you are taking as he may ask you to stop taking them for a period of time prior to the surgery. The night before the surgery, you will be told not to eat or drink anything past midnight. You will also be instructed to arrive at the surgery location (which will either be a hospital or ambulatory surgery center) several hours ahead of time to read and sign any necessary paperwork and also be prepped for the procedure. Although you will be awake for your Houston cataract eye surgery, you will have some form of anesthesia so you will also meet with an anesthesiologist to determine what type of sedation will best for your personal needs and wants. Remember that although you are awake, numbing drops will be used on your eyes, so no need to be fearful of feeling the surgery. Also, you must remember to have arrangements made for a ride home after the surgery, as it will not be safe to drive yourself.

Post-operative instructions are imperative as well. Wear the large, dark sunglasses your doctor gives you after the surgery to protect your eyes from sunlight. Also, take the antibiotic eyedrops you have been prescribed to help prevent infection and also promote healing. Make sure to keep all of your follow up doctor appointments to make sure your eyes are recovering right. Catching complications in the beginning can do your eyes a world of good. Avoid makeup, as well as any other cosmetic products by your eyes for several weeks and be sure not to get hot water or soap in them while you shower. Your new lenses are becoming familiar with your eye and adjustments must be made. Any disturbances can halt or slow down the healing process.  You chose to have this surgery so you could see clearly again so you want to do everything possible after the surgery to make sure that indeed happens.