Cataract surgery is a big decision – which is why we want to make sure, when you finally go through with it, you know everything you must and must not do, before your procedure.
Cataracts form gradually, over a period of time, and might even go unnoticed initially. However, once the condition begins progressing, it can start significantly affecting your vision. Thankfully, modern advancements in technology allow for minimally invasive surgeries that can remove cataracts and restore your clear vision.
In this blog, we are going to discuss some important points you must keep in mind before you undergo cataract surgery.
What is Cataract?
Before we get into the dos and don’ts, here’s an overview of cataracts:
A cataract is an eye condition in which the natural (normally clear) lens of the eye gradually hardens and becomes cloudy. This essentially reduces the light entering the eye and focusing on the retina, leading to blurry vision, glare, and in some cases, double vision.
Cataracts are primarily associated with old age; however, they can affect individuals of any age for various reasons. Some common risk factors include diabetes, smoking, prolonged exposure to sunlight, genetics (congenital), excess body weight, family history of cataracts, past eye surgery or injury, long-term use of corticosteroid medicines, or excess alcohol consumption.
The only way to effectively restore vision once you start developing cataracts is to undergo surgery. Before your surgery, your surgeon might share some tips on how you can prepare for the procedure.
Things to Do Before Cataract Surgery
What to Avoid?
- If your doctor advises you to fast for a few hours before your procedure, do not eat or drink anything
- Avoid using makeup or skincare products on the day of your surgery
- Your surgeon may also advise you to stop using any anti-clotting or blood-thinning medication before the procedure (DO NOT stop taking medication unless specifically advised by your doctor)
- Stop wearing contact lenses a few days prior to the surgery
- Do not consume alcohol (in any form) for at least 24 hours before your surgery
The Day of Your Cataract Surgery
- Arrive at the hospital on the date and time given to you
- Before the surgery, your doctor will assess some vitals such as BP and pulse rate (regardless of whether you are hypertensive/diabetic or not)
- Then you will be given some dilating eye drops, followed by anaesthetic (numbing) eye drops in the eye that is being operated on
- Next, the actual surgery will take place, and you will be out of the OT in 10-20 minutes!
- You will not be admitted to the hospital, but ensure that a family member or friend accompanies you, as you will not be able to drive back yourself right after the surgery
👉 Note: Only one eye will be operated on for cataract in one day. Once your eye has healed and vision is back to normal, the second eye can be operated on.
Dos & Don’ts After Cataract Surgery
It is important to proactively take care of your eyes in the recovery period after your cataract treatment. Although the surgery is fast, bladeless, and painless, it still takes a few days for the eyes to heal completely. Following proper post-op instructions can help accelerate the recovery process:
Dos:
- Use protective eyeglasses
- Follow the prescribed eyedrop & medication routine
- Rest your eyes
- Wear anti-UV sunglasses outdoors
Don’ts:
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
- Avoid dust, smoke, and eye contamination
- Skip heavy lifting or strenuous activities for a few weeks
- Avoid getting into moist environments such as hot tubs or swimming pools
- Don’t splash water directly into your eyes
Sohana Hospital has expert phaco & cataract surgeons who will devise a personalised treatment plan, including thorough assessments, a surgical plan, and pre- & post-surgery instructions.
Advanced diagnostics and modern treatment facilities at Sohana Hospital help efficiently remove cataracts and restore crystal clear vision:
- Advanced 4D Phaco Cataract Surgery
- Robotic+AI Cataract Surgery (FLACS)
- Micro-Incision Cataract Surgery (MICS)
Read more: Why You Shouldn’t Delay Cataract Surgery
If you or anyone you know is dealing with cataracts, visit the Advanced Eye Care Centre, Sohana Hospital, Sector 77, Mohali, for a detailed evaluation today.
