Yes, you can be alone at home after cataract surgery. The healing process following cataract surgery is typically short and simple and does not require special care or attention. Following the procedure, you will be given detailed post-operative instructions, including when to expect the best vision and when to use any prescribed medications, such as eye drops, to ensure proper healing.
Generally, you can expect to have some discomfort right after the surgery, but pain and swelling should improve within the first day. Many people return to regular activities within 24 hours, including work and light exercise.
Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on when you can resume different activities, depending on the extent of your surgery and pre-existing conditions.
It is important to follow your doctor’s orders and wear any protective eyewear that is recommended. Additionally, be sure to keep your eye area clean and to avoid engaging in any activities that could put strain on the eyes.
In most cases, you should feel comfortable going out, but it is recommended to have someone accompany you for the first few days or weeks following surgery.
How long after cataract surgery can I watch TV?
It is generally recommended that you avoid watching TV for the first few days after your cataract surgery. This allows your eyes to heal and adjust without being exposed to the bright light and motion that come with watching television.
After the initial days, you should be able to watch TV for short periods of time as long as it does not cause any discomfort to your eyes. However, you should avoid engaging in activities that increase the level of your eyestrain such as reading, using the computer, or playing video games.
As your vision continues to improve it is usually safe to increase the amount of time you spend watching television and engaging in other activities. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns before increasing activity levels.
What happens if you blink during cataract surgery?
During cataract surgery, there is a risk of blinking during the procedure. If you do blink during cataract surgery, your surgeon may attempt to pause momentarily until you finish blinking, depending on the stage of the procedure.
Surgical tools used during cataract surgery include a slender microscope that requires fixation on the eye and advanced eye tracking techniques. Therefore if you do blink during the procedure, it may cause the surgeon to lose their shape, alignment and focus on the eye which can result in complications.
It is important to note that blinking during cataract surgery is typically not serious, however if the eye continues to move out of alignment, the surgeon may need to reposition and complete the procedure.
Therefore, it is essential to keep your eyes still and avoid blinking during cataract surgery in order to ensure a safe and successful procedure.
What I wish I knew before cataract surgery?
Before undergoing cataract surgery, there are a few important things to consider. First, you should understand the different types of cataract surgery available, so that you can choose the right option for your needs and lifestyle.
The two common types of cataract surgery are traditional or phacoemulsification, and laser-assisted cataract surgery. It’s important to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type with your ophthalmologist, as well as any questions or concerns you may have.
You should also take into consideration the potential risks and complications associated with cataract surgery. Some potential risks and complications include infection, posterior capsule opacification (PCO), retinal detachment, and changes in your refraction.
While these complications are rare, it’s important to be aware that they may occur.
Before your surgery, you may also want to be familiar with what to expect during the procedure. During the procedure, your surgeon will typically make a small incision in your cornea to gain access to your eye.
They will then use a probe to break up the cataract and remove it from your eye, which will replace it with an artificial intraocular lens. It’s important to note that the entire process is usually quick and painless, and most patients are able to return home on the same day.
Finally, you should also be aware of the recovery timeline after cataract surgery. While recovery time typically varies from person to person, it’s important to follow instructions from your ophthalmologist to give yourself the best chance of a smooth and successful recovery.
This includes instructions on activity, activity level, and when to use eyedrops or medications.
Overall, it’s important to be well-informed on the type of cataract surgery you will be receiving, the potential risks, what to expect during the procedure, and the recovery timeline, in order to prepare yourself for a successful and safe cataract surgery experience.
Do they cover your face during cataract surgery?
Yes, during the cataract surgery a sterile drape is placed over your face, leaving just the eye exposed for surgery. The eye and surrounding area are thoroughly cleansed with a surgical scrub before the procedure begins.
Your surgeon and other healthcare providers who are present in the operating room will wear appropriate protective clothing. Safety goggles may be worn to protect everyone’s eyes from the light used during the surgery.
The eye is further covered with an eye shield to provide protection during the procedure and absorb any fluids that are produced during surgery. The drape also helps to keep the field sterile throughout the procedure.
Once the cataract is removed, the patient is turned slightly so that the surgeon can complete the placement of the intraocular lens (IOL).