Cataracts FAQ

Cataracts Overview

What type of eye drops will I be using?

You will use an antibiotic eye drop the day before, the day of, and the week following surgery. You will use an anti-inflammatory eye drop for four weeks after surgery. A schedule for using the eye drops will be given to you the day of your procedure.

When can I shower or wash my hair?

You can bathe twenty-four hours after surgery, but be careful to protect your eyes.

When can I wear eye makeup?

One week after surgery.

How long will I be at the surgery center?

You will be in the clinic for about two hours. You will be in the operating room for about twenty minutes, and the procedure itself will take about ten minutes.

Will I feel any discomfort during the procedure?

A nurse anesthetist will administer mild sedation to relax you and place eye drops to numb your eyes before the procedure.

What restrictions must I follow after the procedure?

You shouldn't lift anything over fifteen pounds in weight for twenty-four hours. You should also avoid driving and alcoholic beverages for twenty-four hours. We advise you to postpone showering until after you see the doctor the next day.

How soon can I drive?

The doctor will examine your eyes the next day and let you know when you can drive.

When I will receive new eyeglasses?

A new prescription for eyeglasses will be given to you, at your follow-up appointment, about three weeks after surgery.

When will I be able to see the results?

The operative eye will be fully dilated the day of surgery. Your vision will be blurry for the rest of the day, and the effect of the eye drops will take about twenty-four hours to dissipate. Your best course of action is to go home and get plenty of rest.

What do I need to do before surgery?

You need a preoperative physical examination with your primary care physician within thirty days of your surgery. We do not require you to stop any medication.