Cataract Surgery

Are cataracts getting in the way of your clear vision? Do you find it more challenging to do the things you love as your vision becomes more impaired?

Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions, especially as you age. They cloud your vision and get worse with time. 

The only way to treat a cataract is by having cataract surgery. Other methods will eventually fall short and fail to improve your vision. 

Every year, ten million people have their cataracts removed. This safe and highly effective procedure allows them to live a life free of cataracts again.

During cataract surgery, your cataract surgeon will remove the clouded natural lens in your eye and replace it with a clear, artificial lens. The artificial lens is called an intraocular lens, or IOL. 

If you’re considering cataract surgery, you may have many questions about what to expect during the procedure. Keep reading to find out what happens during cataract surgery with the best cataract surgeon in Albuquerque!

Preparing For Cataract Surgery

Before having cataract surgery, you’ll have a cataract consultation with one of the eye doctors at Juliette Eye Institute. During this consultation, your eye doctor will measure the size and shape of your eye.

If your eye doctor determines that it’s time for you to have cataract surgery, you will be able to schedule the procedure. They will help you select the right IOL based on your visual goals after cataract surgery.

It’s essential to follow all directions given to you by your cataract surgeon. If you take any medications, you may be asked not to take them before your procedure. 

Some medications can increase the risk of complications. Your cataract surgeon may prescribe antibiotic eye drops that prevent infection and reduce inflammation for you to use after cataract surgery. 

They may also ask that you refrain from eating or drinking on the morning of your procedure. If you notice any changes to your vision in the weeks leading up to your scheduled cataract surgery, make sure to tell your cataract surgeon.

During Surgery

When you go to the best cataract surgeon in Albuquerque, all you need to do on the day of your cataract surgery is relax. Your cataract surgeon will first place numbing drops in your eyes.

This ensures that the most you will feel is a light sensation of touch. You will be awake during the procedure and may see some light and movement. 

After they have numbed your eye, your cataract surgeon will make a small incision in the cornea, the transparent dome at the front of your eye. Through this opening, they will be able to access your natural lens, where the cataract is. 

With precise instruments, they break up and remove the cataract. Once the cataract is removed, it is time to implant the new artificial lens. 

Next, they will position the new intraocular lens in place. Most of the time, stitches are not required as the incision is so small that it is able to heal itself. 

The entire procedure usually takes less than forty-five minutes. After going over post-surgery instructions, you’ll be able to return home.

After Surgery

Taking care of your eyes after cataract surgery will support an ideal outcome. Be sure to follow all of your eye doctor’s directions when it comes to using eye drops.

These are essential to ensuring your eyes have a healthy recovery, free of infection and other complications. Your vision may be blurry or unstable after cataract surgery.

You’ll need a friend or family member to drive you to and from your cataract removal procedure. Most cataract surgery patients are cleared to drive again at their follow-up appointments after a week or so.

The recovery process after cataract surgery is typically short. However, you should take it easy on the day of your procedure and expect your vision to stabilize in the days following cataract surgery.

You’ll be able to get back to your favorite activities in no time at all, with better vision! 

Tips For A Successful Recovery From Cataract Surgery

Since your eyes can have increased sensitivity to light in the time after cataract surgery, it’s recommended that you bring a pair of sunglasses to ensure your trip home is comfortable. 

You should avoid touching or rubbing your eye. It’s also best to avoid getting soap, water, cosmetics, or anything else in them.

You may be asked to wear a shield over your eye, especially when you are sleeping. This keeps this sensitive area protected as it heals. 

Plan to take it easy for at least a few days after cataract surgery. This means you shouldn’t exert yourself, like during exercise.

Do not drive until your doctor says that it is safe to do so. You will most likely need to see your eye doctor for your first follow-up appointment the day after your cataract surgery. 

The doctor will check that your eyes are healing okay so far. They will schedule additional follow-ups in the following weeks to continue checking on your eyes.

It takes several weeks for your eyes to heal completely, although you will notice improvements in your vision much sooner. 

If you are ready to say goodbye to your cataracts, don’t just go to any cataract surgeon. Choose the best cataract surgeon in Albuquerque!

Are you ready to experience the clear vision that cataract surgery can offer? Schedule a cataract evaluation at Juliette Eye Institute in Albuquerque, NM, today!