Important Announcement: We've partnered with ReFocus Eye Health to best focus on providing the best patient care possible. Of course, our doctors and staff will remain the same but our name, logo, and website will be updated as we integrate with the ReFocus family of eye clinics. This will not affect your appointments or your patient experience in the least. 

Important Annoucement: Our Blue Bell clinic is now closed. All patients from that office will be seen at our state-of-the-art North Wales location, where they can expect the same caliber of exceptional eye care and patient experience. This location is only 6 miles away and has ample parking.

What to Ask Before Cataract Surgery

Cataracts are a common issue as people get older. This clouding of the lenses of the eyes can impair vision, but thankfully there are plenty of options for treatment. One of the most routine procedures available, cataract surgery can help restore your vision and get rid of those problem lenses.

The eye care team at our Philadelphia, PA vision center would like to go over some of the most common questions we get from patients before they undergo cataract surgery. This should offer some insight into the surgical process and what you may be wondering about it.

Is Cataract Surgery Necessary?

If you have cataracts, removing them surgically is not always necessary. Sometimes the use of corrective lenses can help address the vision impairment caused by minor cataracts. However, as the clouding of the lenses becomes more pronounced, that’s when cataract surgery becomes the only viable option to consider.

How Effective Is Cataract Surgery?

Highly effective.

Cataract surgery is one of the most common and routine eye surgeries in the United States. It’s estimated that 90 percent of patients experience better vision once their cataracts are removed.

Are There Any Risks Involved?

All surgeries carry some degree of risk, even routine surgeries like cataract removal. Thankfully, issues with infection and post-op complications are very minor. Advanced technology such as the use of lasers in cataract surgery have led to greater precision and an even lower risk of complications.

Will I Need Glasses After Cataract Surgery?

Each patient’s cataract surgery differs based on their needs. Some patients may require glasses after having their cataracts removed to ensure proper vision. If you do require glasses or bifocals, we can offer guidance in picking the right lenses and frames for your needs.

What Kind of Lens Implant Will I Receive?

For many cataract surgery patients, an artificial lens will be placed following the removal of the clouded lens of the eye. These lenses are known as intraocular lenses, or IOLs. There are different kinds of IOLs that are available, including monodical IOLs, multifaceted IOLs, and Toric IOLs.

We’ll help determine the ideal option for you during the consultation process, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each IOL.

What Are the Side Effects of Cataract Surgery?

Common side effects following cataract surgery include:

These side effects will resolve themselves in the days following surgery. They are generally mild and easy to manage.

What Can I Do to Prepare for Cataract Surgery?

As part of the consultation process, we will provide cataract surgery patients with pre-op and post-op instructions. This will include a list of do’s and don’ts before and after the surgery is performed. Be sure to follow these instructions to the letter. Special guidance may be provided to patients given their general wellness and health needs.

Learn More About Cataract Surgery

You likely have more questions about cataract surgery, and we’d be more than happy to answer them. To learn more about cataract surgery and how it can help you see clearly again, be sure to contact Ophthalmology Physicians & Surgeons, PC. Our team is here to help you experience great vision.

Author
Francis Clark, MD

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