What is a Cataract?
When the natural lens inside the eye clouds, it is called a cataract. This clouding interferes with light passing thought to the retina- the seeing part of the eye. Cataracts are often a natural part of aging. Studies show that as many as 50 percent of the population has some degree of cataracts by age 60. Worldwide, cataracts are the number-one cause of vision loss. Cataracts usually develop slowly and without pain, there is no medical treatment to reverse progression. In the old days, we had to wait until cataracts were ripe to remove. Now with newer techniques, we can remove your cataract whenever you feel that your vision is interfering with your life activities.
What are signs of cataracts?
- blurred or hazy vision
- washed out greens and blues coloring
- difficulty reading small print
- sense of film over your eyes
- double vision
- halos around lights at night
What causes cataracts?
We don’t know the exact cause of cataracts, they are often a natural part of aging, but younger people can also develop the clouding. There is no medical treatment that can prevent them, or reverse their progression. Can Cataracts be treated? In early the early days of cataract surgery, surgeons would wait until cataracts were ripe before removing them. With today’s technology it is not necessary to wait; we can remove your cataract when you decide that better vision will improve your quality of life. The only medically accepted way to restore clear vision after a cataract forms is to remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial one.
Is cataract surgery effective?
No-sitch, topical cataract surgery with lens implants allows patient to see clearly. Many patients resume normal activities such as reading and driving almost immediately. More than 98% of patients experienced improved vision after cataract surgery according to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.
What is involved in cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is out-patient basis. Dr. Jenkins usually performs her cataract surgeries at The Surgical Suites, our out-patient facility that is dedicated solely to eye surgery.
What can I expect prior to surgery?
Like any operation, cataract surgery requires some preparation. Following your diagnosis, you will be given a surgery date. It is important for you to get surgical clearance from your primary care physician. If you don’t have a Physical Exam clearing you for your procedure Dr. Jenkins will not be able to perform your surgery. We well provide the form to give to your doctor; please have your doctor complete the physical within two weeks of your surgery.
Do I need to take Eye Drops?
You will be asked to use antibiotic eye drops four times a day for three days before surgery. You will also use these drops following surgery, so bring them with you to the surgery center.
What if I take medication?
If you are currently taking medication for your heart or blood pressure, take it with a sip of water on the morning of surgery. If you are diabetic and taking insulin or oral medication, DO NOT take your morning dose on the day of surgery. Bring all your mediations including your inhalers with you. If you are on blood thinners, there is usually no reason stop taking them with “no stitch, topical” cataract surgery. If you have any questions, please check with your physician.
Can I eat or drink before my procedure?
If your operation is scheduled BEFORE noon, please DO NOT eat or drink after midnight the day before surgery. If the operation is scheduled after 12 noon, you may consume water, clear tea, black coffee, clear juices and/or dry toast before six a.m. Food and liquid in your stomach too close to surgery may result in vomiting and pneumonia. You may brush your teeth, but swallow as little liquid as possible.
Will I need a ride?
Please arrange for someone to drive you to and from the surgery on the day of your procedure. You may take a taxi, but please do not use the city bus.
What can I expect the day of surgery?
On your surgery day, please wear loose fitting clothing. Upon your arrival, a nurse will check your blood pressure, temperature and pulse and ask a few questions to make sure that you are well prepared. An anesthesiologist will review your medical history. We will apply eye drops to dilate your pupil and numb the eye. Medication inserted through an IV will relax you and may make you a little drowsy. In the operating room, you will be given more numbing drops. Blood pressure and heart monitors will be attached and you will be covered with sterile drapes.
You will be able to breathe easily throughout surgery; oxygen will be brought to you by way of a tube that we will position in front of you. The surgery takes around 15 minutes. During that time you will be awake. Let us know if you need to cough or sneeze. You will be asked to look at the microscope light. If you feel any discomfort, we will immediately administer more medication. Being awake during surgery is a lot safer and more pleasant for the patient. Most people are pleasantly surprised at how quick and easy the surgery is. When the surgery is over, we’ll apply more eye drops. You will rest for about a half-an-hour and be monitored carefully and given something to eat and drink. Then you will be permitted to leave. Total time at the surgery facility is usually about three hours.
What can I expect after surgery?
Following the surgery please go home and rest. Your vision will still be blurry, which is normal. Remember, do not drive on the surgery day and do not drink alcohol as we have given you a light sedative. You may shower but avoid getting water directly in your eye Do not rub your eye. If instructed, wear a shield over your eye at night until told to do otherwise. You will be given eye drops to use beginning the day of surgery—an antibiotic and a steroid drop. Please use both drops four times a day until instructed otherwise.
When can I return to my normal routine?
Unless your surgeon instructs otherwise, you may resume non-strenuous activities after surgery. This includes: walking, watching TV, reading, bathing or showering (You will want to avoid getting water in your eyes for the first few days following your procedure.), bending over to put on shoes or picking something up, shampooing and swimming with your head above water. One day after surgery you may resume more strenuous activities such as golf, jogging, dancing, tennis, sex, light weightlifting and moderate exercise. You may resume all activities after two weeks including swimming with your head under water, scuba, surfing, heavy weightlifting and more strenuous exercise.
Will I need glasses after Cataract Surgery?
New glasses are may be required after cataract surgery. Typically, they may be prescribed in three to five weeks. In the mean time you may wear your old glasses as they will protect the operated eye from bumps and rubbing and help the vision in your other eye. Some people will experience sensitivity to light after surgery for a short while. We will provide sunglasses that will fit over your old glasses. If you are comfortable in the sunlight, you may go without them.
How much does everything cost?
When to have your vision procedure should be the question, not how to pay for it. We’d like to make that decision even easier for our patients. We will work with you and your insurance company to get you the best quote prior to the procedure. As expected, there are so many variations in insurance companies, thus the estimation of cost. Please feel free to contact Dannie at 808-591-9911 with any questions.
