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Prep Before Your Cataract Surgery

As we age, our vision tends to change. Our vision becomes less crisp, more blurry, and eventually may affect our day to day activities. Something that is common with older generations is possibly needing cataract surgery. When you have cataracts, it means that the lens on your eye is losing clarity and things are becoming cloudy. The cataract surgery could help you, because it would replace the deteriorating lens with a new crisp one, so you can go about your daily activities with no strain or fuss.

At Round Rock Eye Consultants in Round Rock, we want to make sure you have the best care and treatment available. Our eye doctors know just what to do to take care of your eyes, especially when they diagnose you with cataracts. Usually, surgery is going to be the best option, and we will walk you through the procedure so there are no surprises. Our ophthalmologists are here for the care and protection of your eyes.

Here are some ways you can prepare for your cataract surgery:

Tests

Our eye doctor will perform the necessary tests to make sure your cataract surgery goes smoothly. The main test you will undergo is an ultrasound to measure the size and the shape of your eye. This will determine which lens or implant your ophthalmologist finds fit for you. Our eye doctor will take the best care of you within this process, and you can ask any questions and voice concerns about the surgery within this appointment.

Medications

If you take certain medications, your doctor may advise you to stop taking them temporarily because of your upcoming cataract surgery. Some medications can increase bleeding during the surgery, so these are the medications we want you to be aware of. If you are prescribed medication to help with any prostate problems, you also want to discuss this with your doctor, because this medication can also possibly affect your cataract surgery.

Eye Drops

As a preventive measure, our eye doctor may prescribe an antibiotic eye drop for you to use a few days before your surgery. This can help protect you from infections or other outside influences. We want to make sure you are completely prepared for your cataract surgery, and our ophthalmologist has to make sure you are healthy in every aspect, especially your eye health.

Fast

Before most surgical procedures, many medical professionals ask that you fast for at least 12 hours beforehand. With your cataract surgery, this is no different. Our eye doctor will ask that you not eat or drink anything before your cataract procedure. We ask this because the anesthesia that is used will increase the relaxation of the muscles within your digestive tract, such as food and acid; this has a chance of building up and traveling into your lungs. When you fast, this is no longer a possibility or risk.

Prepare for Afterward

When you come in for your cataract procedure, make sure you have a driver with you, since you will not be able to operate a vehicle after surgery. Also, you may want to incorporate home help into recovery as well, because our eye doctor may ask you rest and not do any heavy lifting or bending for at least a few days.

Getting diagnosed with cataracts from our ophthalmologist can seem like a frightening diagnosis; however, with the proper treatment and care, it can easily be corrected before any permanent damage occurs. Make sure you always come in for routine eye exams, especially when you are over the age of 40, because this is when you more susceptible to developing cataracts. Come in and see our caring and knowledgeable eye doctor at Round Rock Eye Consultants in Round Rock, today!