The idea of having surgery can make anyone nervous. Often these nerves are tied to a fear of the unknown. Having never gone through cataract surgery before, you probably do not know what to expect, which can create stress.
Dr. Edward Hedaya and the team at InVision Eye Care want to eliminate some of your fears of the unknown by explaining what happens on the day of cataract surgery. With a general understanding of what to expect, you are more likely to enjoy a positive, stress-free experience.
On the morning of your surgery, you should refrain from eating or drinking, except to take any morning medicines with a small sip of water. Please avoid applying creams or serums to your eye area.
You will be asked to arrive at the outpatient surgery center a few hours before your surgery. When you arrive at the surgery center, you will fill out final paperwork. Then, you will be escorted back to a waiting area and given a gown to place over your clothing. You will receive a sedative medication to help you feel more relaxed and comfortable. Drops will be placed in your eyes to numb them and dilate them.
When it is time for surgery, you will be escorted into the operating room and asked to relax on the treatment chair. Staff members will be available to help you into a comfortable position.
The procedure itself is quite fast and comfortable. You should not feel anything as Dr. Hedaya removes your cloudy lens and places your intraocular lens implant. In fact, you may even converse with him or the staff during the procedure. The actual procedure takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
In the blink of an eye, the procedure is over. You will be escorted into a surgical suite and monitored for a short time. Then, you will be released into the care of a family member or close friend, who should drive you home.
After you are home, you should rest for the remainder of the day. You may notice an improvement in your visual clarity within hours of your surgery, or it may take a few days for results to take effect.
Plan for a follow-up visit with our team the day after your procedure. Dr. Hedaya will want to check your healing progress and ensure you are not experiencing any complications. At the appointment, he will schedule any subsequent follow-ups.
Many patients experience nerves prior to cataract surgery; those same patients often tell us the day of surgery was not nearly as scary or stressful as they imagined.
To learn more about cataract surgery, please contact our practice today.
