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Questions to Ask About Cataract Surgery
Although your doctor will usually tell you what to expect, think about your specific concerns and your situation. You may wish to write down your questions to take with you to your visit. Consider bringing a family member or friend with you to help you understand all your options. We've all had the experience of not being able to absorb everything we hear in a doctor's office. Your concerns are important, so be sure your ophthalmologist has addressed them. Some doctors provide informational videos to assist in preparing you for the surgery. Among the questions you should ask:
Preparing for surgery
- Is it safe for me to postpone cataract surgery? If so, for how long?
- What are the risks of cataract surgery with my present medical condition? Will you consult with my internist, cardiologist, or other specialist?
- Will cataract surgery affect my other medical problems?
- What improvements in my vision can I realistically expect?
- Will surgery be done on an outpatient basis or require an overnight stay?
- Will I receive local or general anesthesia?
- What surgical procedure will be used, extracapsular extraction or phacoemulsification? Will an intraocular lens be used?
- How long will the procedure take?
- Will the incision require stitches? Will they need to be removed?
- When is the last time I should eat or drink prior to surgery?
- May I take my regular medications on the day of surgery?
- Will I have any discomfort or pain during or after the surgery?
After surgery
- How long will I have to use eyedrops after surgery? Will I need to take any other medications?
- Will I have to wear a shield over my eye and, if so, for how long?
- What eyeglasses can I wear during the healing period? Will I eventually need a new prescription?
- Is it advisable to wear sunglasses indoors as well as outdoors?
- What activity restrictions will there be and for how long?
- When may I return to work?
- When will I be able to read, drive, take a shower, swim, fly on a plane, or take a vacation?
- When will my vision return to normal?
- Should I anticipate any emotional or psychological reactions?
- How can I best prepare myself and my family for whatever assistance I may need in the days following surgery?
By Eleanor E. Faye, MD, FACS; Bruce P. Rosenthal, OD, FAAO; and Carol J. Sussman-Skalka, CSW, MBA