What to Expect Before, During, and After Cataract Surgery

Are you considering cataract surgery? Are you unsure about the procedure and what to expect? At the Advanced Laser and Cataract Center in Oklahoma City, we understand that undergoing cataract surgery can be a significant decision. That's why we're here to guide you through the process, from the initial evaluation to post-operative care. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps of cataract surgery, including lens replacement options and the importance of choosing the right eye care provider.

Understanding the Cataract Surgery Procedure
Before diving into the details of cataract surgery, let's briefly review what cataracts are. Cataracts are the clouding of the eye's natural lens, which can cause blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, and increased sensitivity to light. When cataracts start affecting your daily life and vision quality, cataract surgery becomes a viable option to restore your clear vision.

Step 1: Evaluation
The first step in the cataract surgery process involves a thorough evaluation by our Advanced Laser and Cataract Center expert team. During this evaluation, we take the time to understand your medical history and examine the condition of your eyes. This initial assessment is crucial in determining the best approach to your cataract treatment.

Step 2: Customized Treatment Plan
Based on your evaluation, our team will create a personalized cataract treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. One crucial aspect of this plan is selecting the type of intraocular lens (IOL) that will replace your natural lens. We offer a range of lens replacement options to choose from, each with its own unique benefits.

Step 3: Surgery
Cataract surgery is typically performed on one eye at a time, especially if you have cataracts in both eyes. This approach allows for optimal healing and ensures the best possible outcome. Here's an overview of what to expect during the surgery:

1. Numbing Eye Drops:
   To ensure your comfort, numbing eye drops are applied to your eye so you won't feel discomfort during the procedure.

2. Tiny Incision:
   A small incision is made in the cornea, which serves as the entry point for the surgical instruments.

3. Cataract Removal:
   The cloudy cataract is gently broken up and suctioned out of your eye using specialized instruments.

4. IOL Placement:
   An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is carefully positioned in your eye, replacing the cloudy natural lens.

5. Protective Covering:
   After the surgery, a protective covering is placed over your eye to aid recovery.

Step 4: Post-operative Care
Following cataract surgery, it's crucial to follow our aftercare instructions diligently. This includes:

• Avoiding Strenuous Activities:
  Rest and avoid strenuous activities that could strain your eyes.

• Administering Eye Drops:
  Use the prescribed eye drops as instructed to prevent infection and promote healing.

Affordable Options and Insurance Coverage
At the Advanced Laser and Cataract Center, we pride ourselves on offering the best in lens technology. We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, making cataract surgery accessible to many patients. If you're unsure whether cataract surgery is right for you, scheduling an eye exam is the first step. It's essential to note that cataract surgery is typically covered by medical insurance plans such as BCBS, United Health Care, or Medicare rather than vision insurance plans like VSP or EyeMed.

Can I Do Both Eyes at the Same Time?
A common question among cataract patients is whether they can have surgery on both eyes simultaneously. While it is possible in some cases, cataract and lens replacement surgeries are often performed one eye at a time, typically with a week or two between procedures. This approach allows the first eye to heal fully and ensures the lens calculation is accurate before proceeding with the second eye. The advantage of this method is that it will enable patients to continue with their daily routines with minimal downtime while simultaneously improving their vision.

Your Path to Clear and Vibrant Vision
If you're considering cataract surgery, the Advanced Laser and Cataract Center in Oklahoma City provides exceptional care and guidance throughout the process. Our expert team will walk you through the evaluation, lens replacement options, and post-operative care, ensuring you achieve the best possible results. Don't let cataracts diminish your quality of life; reach out to us today to schedule an eye exam and explore your options for clear and vibrant vision.

For more information about cataract surgery and our services, please visit our website.

Sources:
https://www.alcok.com