6 Tips To Prepare Before Cataract Surgery

Getting ready for surgery can be a daunting task, which is why it never hurts to have some advice beforehand! Even though cataract surgery only takes about 10 minutes to perform, it takes a little more to prepare for it.

Luckily, it still isn’t too complicated. though if you have any questions, you can feel free to contact Eye Physicians and Surgeons of Arizona.

Keep reading for 6 tips on how you can prepare before cataract surgery!

1. Take Medication if Provided

You may be provided medication in the form of eye drops by your eye doctor to use the night before the surgery. Be sure to take this as instructed.

You may need to stop taking other medications that could increase your risk of excessive bleeding or for prostate issues. You will also need to abstain from drinking or eating anything for 12 hours before the surgery.

2. Dress Comfortably

There’s no need to dress to the nines when you go in to have your cataract surgery. Instead, you should focus on comfort, as you will be required to be as still as possible for several minutes.

Do your best to not wear any clothing that sheds or creates lint to keep the surgery suite as clean as possible.

Make sure to leave any makeup, perfume, or lotion off of your face. These could cause irritation or infection.

3. Get Plenty of Rest

You’ll likely be quite tired after the surgery. Getting a head start on your sleep will help you stay calm and think clearly, reducing your anxiety.

If you are still nervous, ask about receiving a light sedative to help you relax. It’s important to feel as comfortable as possible, both physically and mentally, before any surgical procedure.

4. Arrive Early

You should plan on getting to the clinic about 30 minutes before the actual surgery time. This will give you a buffer to finish any paperwork.

It will also give you plenty of time to ask questions that you may have thought of leading up to the surgery date. Don’t be afraid to ask your questions, even if they seem silly or dumb!

If getting answers to them gives you peace of mind, they are absolutely worth it.

5. Set Up a Ride Home

Your eyes will recover after a pretty short amount of time, but you won’t be able to drive yourself home. Your vision will likely be blurry for several hours after the surgery.

You may even notice that your vision is blurry for the next day or two after. This is all normal!

Because of this, driving will not be safe for you or other people on the road. Consider asking a friend or relative to drive you or plan on using a ridesharing service.

6. Schedule Your Cataract Screening

Perhaps the biggest part of preparing for cataract surgery is the cataract screening. During this appointment, you will learn all you need to know about the surgery itself.

You’ll also undergo several tests and exams to see if you are a candidate for the procedure. It’s also a great time to ask any questions you may have.

Concerned that your vision problems may be due to cataracts? Schedule your cataract screening at Eye Physicians and Surgeons of Arizona in Scottsdale, AZ!