What caused my cataract?
Cataracts are a very natural, gradual condition that we all have eventually. It is generally related to normal age changes; however diabetes, medication usage, sun exposure and trauma to the eye may also cause a cataract at any age.
Do I really need to have cataract eye surgery?
Cataract surgery is an elective procedure, however once cataracts affect your lifestyle or cause difficulty with your daily activities it may be time to consider having them removed.
What are the cataract eye surgery side effects and risks?
As with any surgical procedure, including cataract treatment, there are always risks. Dr. Dhaliwal will do everything possible to ensure that you have the safest surgical procedure with the best outcome. Some side effects may include: inflammation, infection, edema and/or retinal detachment. Although rare, it is important to inform you of every possible complication.
What kind of tests will I have?
All patients will have a basic measurement performed,along with the IOL Master, in our office. Depending upon the type of implant that you choose, additional tests in our office may be required. There is no pain or discomfort associated with any of these tests. Dr. Dhaliwal, and his surgical consultants will go over this information with you at the time of your initial visit.
Will I feel anything during cataract eye surgery?
Most patients might only feel a gentle pressure during cataract removal surgery. Our goal is to make you as comfortable as possible.
I was told to take antibiotics before having any procedures. Should I take them before eye surgery also?
Vigamox, an eye drop, is the only antibiotic necessary. This medication will be prescribed to you by Dr. Dhaliwal. Oral pills are not required.
What type of preparation can I expect?
Dr. Dhaliwal will prescribe several eye drops. We ask that you begin these drops four days prior to eye surgery. These drops will not affect your vision. They are used to prevent and control inflammation, infection and pain. You will continue these drops for two weeks after surgery. You will also be given a detailed pre and post operative instruction sheet prior to surgery with exact instructions on how to take your eye drops.
Do I really need Oasis?
We believe that the best outcome begins with a healthy ocular surface. Dr. Dhaliwal wants his surgical patients to use the highest quality, preservative free lubrication drop on the market. Oasis are artificial tears that are not available at this time in retail stores. Our patients have experienced wonderful results with these drops as well as increased comfort.
Does every patient need an cataract lens implant?
Yes, once your cataract is removed, it is necessary to replace your eye’s natural lens with a new implant. This is done to ensure your best possible vision after surgery.
Can my eye reject the cataract lens implant?
No, since the intraocular lens is not made up of human tissue, your body cannot reject it.
Will the cataract implant need to be replaced in the future?
No, the intraocular lens implant will remain in your eye permanently and will not “wear out.”
Will I have to wear a patch?
No, Dr. Dhaliwal performs a small incision, no stitch procedure. Due to this state of the art technique, a patch is not necessary.
How soon may I resume driving after cataract eye surgery?
For most cataract surgery patients, vision improves significantly in the first 24 hours after surgery. You may drive as soon as you feel comfortable doing so.
Can I take a shower and wash my hair after cataract surgery?
Yes you may.
Can I rub my eyes after cataract surgery?
No, it is important that you are very gentle around your eye. No rubbing is allowed.
How long will I need to take off time off from work?
The majority of people choose to return to work within a day or so, depending on their preference.
May I eat before surgery?
No, you may not have anything to eat or drink after midnight the night before your cataract surgery.
Can I take my medications the morning of cataract surgery?
Yes, any medications for blood pressure or heart conditions must be taken with a sip of water prior to your surgery. However, certain medications should be avoided prior to surgery. The surgical consultants will check your current medications and advise you if you need to discontinue any medication that morning.
Will I be put to sleep?
No, you will not be put to sleep. However, the anesthesiologist will use gentle I.V. sedation, which is often known as “twilight”. You should not be aware of any pain and completely relaxed.
What do I see and hear during surgery?
You will only be able to see the bright lights from the microscope. You may also hear your doctor’s voice as well as any of his nurses, letting you know that your procedure is going well.
Will I be able to see clearly immediately after cataract surgery?
No, your vision is quite blurred after eye surgery from dilation drops. The drops will eventually wear off by the following morning.
May I drive myself home?
No, due to the anesthesia administered and blurred vision, we will require that you have someone else drive you home after surgery.
Is it safe to continue activities such as golf and reading?
Yes, we encourage you to resume normal activities as soon as you wish.
Is it safe to resume lifting after surgery?
Yes, routine activities such as bending and lifting will not harm your eye. However, Dr. Dhaliwal would like you to restrict the amount of lifting to under 20 pounds. In addition, you do not want to do any exercising or activities that would cause strain.
How come my close-up vision isn’t as good as my distance vision after surgery?
Your ability to see well up-close depends on the type of intraocular cataract lens implant you received during cataract surgery. If you received a standard implant, it is normal to require reading glasses after cataract eye surgery. If you received a lifestyle lens , such as ReSTOR and Crystalens , you significantly decrease the need for reading glasses. Lifestyle lens implants are designed to allow you the best vision at all distances. Although lifestyle lenses are superior technology, reading glasses may be required in some instances.
Do I really need to wear sunglasses after cataract surgery?
Wearing sunglasses to protect your recently operated eye is one of the most important things that you can do to ensure your best possible outcome. We highly recommend Maui Jim Sunglasses, which offer the best protection possible.
Do I really need Maui Jim sunglasses?
Drugstore and department store sunglasses pale in comparison to the technology of Maui Jim. With its revolutionary PolarizedPlus®2 lenses and true 100% protection from UVA, UVB and UVC rays, it is one of the best investments that you can make. The Maui Jim lens offers you the best protection to safeguard your macula from any further sun damage. Learn more…
For more information on Cataract Eye Surgery in the Chicago, IL area call Chicagoland Eye Consultants at (773) 775-9755 today!