Know your Surgery
Before Surgery
To determine if your cataract should be removed, your ophthalmologist will perform a thorough eye examination. It is advisable to not wait for the cataract to mature because once mature, the cataract can raise the pressure of the eye resulting in lens induced glaucoma which can cause a permanent damage to the optic nerve. Before surgery, your eye will be measured to determine the proper power of the intraocular lens that will be placed in your eye.
The general physical fitness opinion by a physician is a must. Routine blood investigations are needed. If you are on any medications, inform the doctor. You have to continue all your medications as usual. Do not stop on your own. Doctor may advice you to stop temporarily few drugs like aspirin before surgery.
The Day of Surgery
Surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis (day care surgery) in the hospital. When you arrive for surgery, you will be given eye drops and perhaps a mild sedative to help you relax. A local anesthetic (eye drops/Injection) will numb your eye. The skin around your eye will be thoroughly cleansed, and sterile coverings will be placed around your head. Your eye will be kept open by an eyelid speculum. You may see light and movement, but you will not be able to see the surgery while it is happening.
Surgery is performed under an operating microscope. The patient is usually awake, so any small movement such as a cough or simple head adjustment looks like an earthquake under the microscope. It's advisable to stay still & inform surgeon before you move head.
