Answering the Most Common Cataract Surgery Fears
Having surgery performed on your eyes can be a little scary so our Ophthalmologist, Dennis Kilpatrick, MD, has answered some of the most common surgery fears!
- Can I go blind from surgery?
Going blind after cataract surgery is extremely rare. If a patient were to go blind it would most likely be due to an infection in the eye. With the antibiotics and advanced technology blindness after cataract surgery is very uncommon!
- Do I need stitches in the eye?
The incision for the surgery is about 2.5mm in size and most of the time no stitches are needed. In some more rare cases a stitch will be used. The stitch is usually removed 1 week after surgery and most patients do not feel it being removed.
- Do I need to wear a patch on my eye?
Eye patches are not usually necessary after cataract surgery!
- Do I need a driver after surgery?
Yes, State Law requires someone other than the patient to drive away from the surgery center after cataract surgery. Most patients will be able to drive themselves the day after surgery, however.
- How limited are my activities?
Almost not at all. You can go back to your regular routine the day of surgery! Years ago patients were not allowed to shower, bend over, pick up heavy objects, or sleep on the side that the eye was worked on; but with the advancements in surgery technology there is no longer a need for extreme limitation in your daily routine.
- Can I swim?
Swimming or sitting in a hot tub after surgery is totally fine as long as no water gets in the eye. Protective eyewear is highly encouraged. There is no restriction on tap water, such as face washing or showering.
- When can I go back to work?
The next day in most cases!
- Will I experience any pain?
Dr. Kilpatrick almost always uses topical anesthetic to numb the eye when performing cataract surgery. After surgery, if there is minor discomfort, Tylenol or Ibuprofen can be taken.
- Will I need a shot in my eye!
No shots will be needed in or around the eye for cataract surgery! Shots in the eye are a very rare occurrence!
- Will I need glasses after surgery?
Yes, after cataract surgery reading glasses are usually needed. Special implant lenses are available to correct astigmatism and replace reading glasses. However they are not covered by insurance.
Are there any questions we didn’t answer about Cataract Surgery? Call Scottsdale Eye Physicians & Surgeons at 480-994-1872 to speak with one of our staff members or to make an appointment with one of our Doctors!
