Taking control of your cataract surgery preparation empowers you to approach your procedure with confidence rather than anxiety.
While your surgeon handles the technical aspects of removing cataracts and implanting new lenses, you play an equally important role in preparing for success. From your preoperative examination to understanding post-surgery restrictions, each preparation step contributes to better outcomes and a smoother recovery.
The time you invest in preparation pays dividends in reduced complications and faster visual improvement. Keep reading to learn seven essential ways to prepare for your procedure at Jacksonville Eye Center!
What Happens During Cataract Surgery?
Although cataract surgery has been around for decades, recent innovations have made this a very safe procedure.
Advanced intraocular lenses now allow patients to restore more youthful eyesight and are able to significantly reduce their dependence on visual aids. Some patients may upgrade to a premium IOL that enables vision at multiple distances, potentially reducing dependence on glasses.
At Jacksonville Eye Center, Dr. Schnipper uses a topical eye drops that numb your eyes before making a small incision. An ultrasonic device will then break up and remove the clouded lens.
Dr. Schnipper then inserts a folded intraocular lens through the same incision, which remains permanently in place. The incision typically self-seals without stitches, and within a few days, you will be able to experience restored vision!
Steps to Prepare for Cataract Surgery
Once your cataract surgery is scheduled, you will receive detailed preoperative instructions. Following these nine steps will help you prepare thoroughly for surgery and recovery.
1. Complete Your Preoperative Examination
Your preoperative examination is a necessary step in cataract surgery preparation. During this visit, the eye care team will perform tests to get precise measurements of your eyes and determine the appropriate intraocular lens for your needs.
These measurements include assessing the length of your eye, the curvature of your cornea, and other factors that influence lens selection. This consultation includes a comprehensive vision exam and discussion of your lifestyle requirements and vision goals.
The preoperative visit provides an opportunity to discuss your replacement lens options thoroughly. If you’re interested in reducing dependence on glasses can explore premium lens options that provide vision at multiple distances.
Dr. Schnipper will explain the benefits and considerations of each lens type. This visit also allows you to ask questions about the procedure and what results you can expect.
2. Review Medications With Your Surgeon
Certain medications may need to be temporarily stopped or adjusted before your cataract surgery. Make a complete list of all medications you currently take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements.
Share this list with Dr. Schnipper during your preoperative visit. Never stop taking any prescribed medication without discussing it with both your surgeon and prescribing physician.
3. Follow Preoperative Instructions Carefully
Jacksonville Eye Center will provide you with specific preoperative instructions tailored to your surgery. These instructions typically begin a few days before your procedure and may include starting prescription eye drops. Using these drops as prescribed helps reduce infection risk and prepares the eye for optimal surgical conditions.
You will receive detailed instructions about eating and drinking before surgery. Generally, avoid consuming any food or drink after midnight the night before your procedure.
Your instruction sheet will also specify what to wear on surgery day. Choose comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and avoid wearing makeup, perfume, cologne, or scented lotions, which can interfere with the sterile surgical environment.
4. Arrange Transportation
You cannot drive yourself home after cataract surgery. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to Jacksonville Eye Center and take you home. Your driver should wait at the office during your procedure.
5. Plan Time Off Work
Most patients need one to two days off from work for surgery and initial recovery, though the exact time required depends on your occupation and physical demands. If your work involves heavy lifting, bending, strenuous activity, or exposure to dust and debris, you may need additional recovery time.
Discuss your work requirements with Dr. Schnipper during your preoperative visit. Office workers with sedentary jobs often return within a day or two after surgery. Those with physically demanding positions may need a week or more before resuming normal activities.
Planning your time off in advance allows you to focus on healing without work-related stress.
6. Prepare Your Home Environment
Creating a comfortable recovery space supports your healing after cataract surgery. Stock your home with prescribed eye drops, over-the-counter pain relievers if recommended, and a protective eye shield for sleeping.
Consider preparing easy meals in advance or arranging for help with cooking during the first few days. Set up a comfortable resting area where you can relax with your head slightly elevated.
7. Understand Activity Restrictions
Knowing what activities to avoid after cataract surgery helps protect your healing eye. You will need to avoid rubbing or pressing on your eye for several weeks following the procedure, even if it feels itchy.
Swimming, hot tubs, and other water activities should be postponed for at least two weeks to prevent infection. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting typically need to be avoided for at least a week. Activities that cause you to bend over or strain can increase eye pressure during healing.
Dr. Schnipper will provide a detailed list of activity restrictions during your preoperative visit. You will wear a protective eye shield while sleeping for the first week. Most normal daily activities, including reading and light walking, can usually resume within a day or two.
Start Your Journey to Clearer Vision
Thorough preparation contributes to a positive cataract surgery experience and optimal visual outcomes. By completing your preoperative examination, managing medications appropriately, arranging practical details like transportation and time off, and understanding post-surgery care requirements, you set yourself up for success.
Ready to schedule your cataract surgery consultation? Schedule an appointment at Jacksonville Eye Center in Jacksonville, Florida, to discuss your treatment options and personalized preparation plan.
