Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest surgical procedures in the United States, with more than three million surgeries performed each year. If you're considering cataract surgery, it's essential to understand what to do and what to avoid in order to have the best possible experience. Before your appointment, it's important to wash your face with soap and water. Additionally, you should refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight the day before your surgery and avoid alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours before the procedure.
This will help you get a good night's rest and better prepare your body for the surgery. If you are diabetic or following a prescribed nutritional regimen, discuss it with your doctor a few days before the procedure to decide what is best for you. You may be told not to eat or drink anything 12 hours before cataract surgery. Your doctor may also recommend that you temporarily stop taking any medications that may increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure. It's also important to tell your doctor if you are taking any medications for prostate problems, as some of these medications may interfere with cataract surgery. Your healthcare provider may ask you not to eat any solid food 6 hours before surgery.
You should also avoid drinking alcohol at least 24 hours before. Most modern types of cataract surgery involve replacing the lens with a transplant called an intraocular lens (IOL). Cataract surgery is usually an outpatient procedure, which means that you don't need to stay in the hospital after surgery. In most cases, waiting to have cataract surgery won't harm your eye, so you'll have time to consider your options. Medicare covers the cost of cataract surgery if the procedure is performed using traditional surgical techniques or laser. Recovery from cataract surgery usually lasts a short time, and you can resume many of your normal daily activities.
If possible, it may be beneficial to evaluate and treat other eye problems before making the decision to have cataract surgery. If cataracts in both eyes require surgery, the eye doctor will schedule two surgeries one to two weeks apart. Although insurance doesn't cover them, special eyeglasses or contact lenses can help you rely less on eyeglasses or contact lenses after cataract surgery. When it comes to cataract surgery, preparation is key. Make sure to wash your face with soap and water before your appointment and avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight the day before your procedure. Additionally, refrain from drinking alcohol at least 24 hours prior and discuss any medications you are taking with your doctor.
It's also important to evaluate and treat any other eye problems before making a decision about cataract surgery. 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.
