Are you having trouble driving because of night glare? Is it hard to write checks? When you read to your grandchildren, is the text blurred? If you answer yes to any of these questions, you may be suffering from cataracts- clouding of the lens in the eye and a leading cause of blindness. But cataracts can be cured. Dr. Harris and his associates perform a delicate procedure that replaces your clouded lens with a permanent implant restoring sharp crisp vision. Cataract surgery is generally done in an outpatient setting, requiring only a few hours using a topical anesthetic and IV sedation.
Although cataract surgery is usually covered by medical insurance, premium IOLS and the laser-assisted procedure are not and must be paid for out of pocket.
Our staff will give you instructions on what you need to do before the date of your surgery. You will need to have a full evaluation by your medical doctor as well as certain blood tests and other tests. You will also be scheduled to see your eye physician to obtain written consent for the operation, discuss the surgery including risks and benefits in detail, and answer any last minute questions.
Most patients can now have their procedure done without staying overnight in an ambulatory surgery center or hospital out-patient. On the scheduled day, you will be admitted to a hospital’s Day Surgery Unit. You will be given eye drops and possibly a mild sedative to help you relax.
The surgery is usually done with using a numbing gel but can be done under general anesthesia. Either way, you should experience no discomfort during the surgery. The cataract is gently removed using an operating microscope and specialized delicate instruments.
Recovery from modern cataract surgery is usually relatively rapid. Most patients require little or no pain medication after surgery. You will be allowed to resume many of your normal activities the day following surgery and should quickly resume all activities within the next several weeks.
Your vision will improve as your eye heals. You may be able to see quite well almost immediately, or you may need several weeks for healing. You will heal at your own rate. Once your eye has recovered, you may need glasses to fine-tune your vision.
