Before, During, and After Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is a common procedure to remove the cloudy lens from the eye and replace it with an artificial one, improving vision. This guide covers what to expect before, during, and after cataract surgery, ensuring a smooth and successful recovery.
Pre-operative Care
Pre-operative care is essential to ensure a smooth and successful cataract surgery.
What To Do at Home
Ensure your home is clean and organised to prevent any accidents or infections post-surgery. Remove any tripping hazards and set up a comfortable space where you can rest after surgery. This area should have all the essentials like medications, tissues, water, and easy access to a restroom.
Purchase any prescribed medications and eye drops ahead of time, and stock up on groceries and any other essentials you might need during your recovery period. Arrange for someone to help you at home, especially during the first 24-48 hours post-surgery when you might need help with daily activities.
Medications and Eye Drops
You will likely be prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to be used a few days before surgery to reduce the risk of infection and inflammation.
Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some medications may need to be paused or adjusted before surgery. If you are on blood thinners, your doctor may advise you to stop taking them a few days before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.
Strictly adhere to the eye drop regimen and any other medications prescribed by your doctor to ensure optimal conditions for surgery.
Diet Changes
Your doctor will provide specific instructions on when to stop eating and drinking before surgery. Generally, you will be advised not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your surgery. Stay well-hydrated in the days leading up to your surgery to help with the recovery process. Refrain from consuming alcohol and limit caffeine intake for at least 24 hours before surgery, as these can interfere with anaesthesia and recovery.
Arranging Transportation
Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from the surgery centre. Cataract surgery is usually a same-day procedure, and you will not be able to drive yourself home due to the effects of anaesthesia and impaired vision post-surgery. Ensure your designated driver understands their role and is available to stay with you for a few hours post-surgery if needed.
Have a backup plan in place in case your primary driver becomes unavailable. This could include arranging for a taxi or ride-sharing service, ensuring they understand your medical condition and needs.
Book a QERS Consultation
What Happens on the Day of Surgery
Cataract surgery is a common and typically safe procedure performed to restore vision by removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial one. Understanding what happens during the surgery can help you feel more prepared and at ease.
Anaesthesia and Sedation
- Local Anaesthesia: Before the procedure begins, your surgeon will administer numbing eye drops to your eye to ensure you don’t feel any pain during the surgery. In some cases, a local anaesthetic injection may be given around the eye to provide additional numbness and immobilise the eye.
- Sedation: You may receive a mild sedative, either orally or through an IV line, to help you relax. This sedative will keep you awake but in a calm and comfortable state. In certain cases, an anaesthesiologist may administer monitored anaesthesia care to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. This may involve deeper sedation, but you will still be responsible.
The Procedure
- Preparation: The area around your eye will be cleaned and sterilised to prevent infection. Your face will be covered with a sterile drape, leaving only the surgical eye exposed.
- Performing the Surgery: The surgeon will perform the surgery using certain advanced techniques depending on your condition, which you can learn more about [here]. The procedure involves making a small incision, removing the clouded lens, and replacing it with an artificial lens.
Post-operative Care and Recovery
Proper post-operative care is crucial for a successful recovery after cataract surgery. This guide outlines immediate post-surgery care, activity restrictions, medications and eye drops, and signs of complications to help you navigate the recovery process smoothly.
After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where your vital signs will be monitored. You will stay here until the effects of the anaesthesia have worn off. The medical staff will provide you with specific instructions for home care before you leave the surgical centre.
You will likely be given a protective eye shield to wear, especially while sleeping, to prevent accidental rubbing or pressure on the eye. Wear the eye shield as directed by your surgeon, typically for the first few days and at night for about a week.
Rest for the remainder of the day after your surgery. Avoid any strenuous activities and try to keep your head elevated when resting.
Do not lift heavy objects or engage in activities that require significant physical exertion for at least a week. Avoid bending over, as this can increase pressure in your eye.
Avoid rubbing or touching your eye, even if it feels itchy or uncomfortable. Keep water out of your eye when showering or bathing. Avoid swimming or using hot tubs for at least a week or as advised by your surgeon.
Do not drive until your surgeon confirms that it is safe for you to do so, usually after the first follow-up visit.
Use antibiotic eye drops as prescribed to prevent infection, and use anti-inflammatory eye drops to reduce swelling and inflammation. Follow the dosage and schedule provided by your surgeon. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended if you experience discomfort. Avoid medications like aspirin that can increase bleeding risk unless advised by your doctor.
- Pain and Discomfort: Mild discomfort, itching, and sensitivity to light are normal. Severe pain or a significant increase in discomfort should be reported to your doctor immediately.
- Vision Changes: Some blurriness is expected and should improve over time. Sudden vision loss or significant changes should be reported promptly.
- Redness and Swelling: Mild redness and swelling are normal. Excessive redness, swelling, or discharge can be signs of infection and should be addressed immediately.
- Flashes and Floaters: The sudden appearance of flashes of light or a significant increase in floaters (dark spots) in your vision could indicate retinal detachment, which requires immediate medical attention.
- Persistent Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms could indicate increased pressure in your eye and should be reported to your surgeon immediately.
For more information about cataract surgery, contact the staff at Queensland Eye and Retina Specialists.