Cataract surgery is a safe and effective eye care solution that can have life-changing results for people who have lost visual acuity due to cataracts. Fortunately, this is a relatively common condition that can be easily treated with cataract surgery. To ensure the procedure goes as smoothly as possible, it is important to avoid or stop taking certain medications that contain aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or blood thinners. These medications should be stopped 7 to 10 days before surgery.
Aspirin and nonsteroidal “aspirin-like” products should not be taken for ten days prior to the operation. A key factor in successfully treating patients who undergo cataract surgery is to obtain a comprehensive list of current and former drugs used by the patient in order to avoid any intraoperative or postoperative surgical complications. It is essential for doctors to ask their patients awaiting cataract surgery if they are taking any anticoagulants, such as aspirin, as these products may increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure. We will ask that you be seen by your primary care doctor within 30 days after surgery so that you are “medically authorized” to have cataract surgery.
Cataract surgery involves removing the natural lens where the cataract is present and replacing it with an artificial lens. Fortunately, cataract surgery has evolved to the point where systemic medications have little influence on the intraoperative or postoperative course of patients. Cataract surgery is usually an outpatient procedure, which means that you don't need to stay in the hospital after surgery. Fortunately, most people will still need glasses after cataract surgery at least some of the time.
Knowing what to do to prepare for (and what to avoid) before surgery will help you have the best possible experience. If you're ready to see if cataract surgery is the best treatment option for you, contact us at Heart of Texas Eye Care for a free consultation.
