Cataracts are an inevitable eye condition that comes with age and more than half of Americans over the age of 80 have cataracts or have already had cataract surgery. Starting at age 40, the lenses of our eyes grow thick and cloudy until they affect our vision. Since there are no physical symptoms, many people go years without addressing the issue, which can be resolved with laser cataract surgery in our surgical center just across the bridge from Louisville in Jeffersonville, Indiana.
How Is Cataract Surgery Performed?
Using an FDA-approved LenSx laser system, our highly skilled eye surgeons make precise incisions while you’re under mild anesthesia. This bladeless surgical option uses a computer-guided laser and gives our patients consistent and accurate results. The laser softens and breaks up cataracts, making them easier for us to remove. We are then able to insert a customized intraocular lens, which can eliminate your need for glasses. Since each patient has different health concerns, cataract surgery is tailored to the condition of each patient’s eyes.
What to Expect Right After Surgery
Immediately following your surgery, you will be given time to rest so the anesthesia can wear off. Your eye may be taped shut at this point and should remain that way until you’ve been instructed to remove it, usually when you’re at home. It’s essential you don’t tape your eye closed again after the adhesive has been removed. A friend or family member should be there to drive you home once you’re cleared to leave. We also offer complimentary transportation for you and a guest should you need assistance getting to and from our surgical center on the day of your surgery as well as the day of your follow-up appointment.
Tips for Recovering at Home
During the first 24 hours, avoid any heavy lifting, straining, or bending over. When you go to sleep the first night, you must wear the provided eye shield and sleep on your back or the side opposite of the eye in recovery. You also must avoid washing your hair for the first 24 hours.
After 24 hours have passed, you can resume your usual everyday activity. You may sleep in any position at night, but you’ll keep using the eye shield for a week if you tend to rub, touch, or press your eyes. Bathing and showering are permitted at this point, but you should avoid getting water near your eye. If you experience any discomfort, it’s okay to take Tylenol or Advil, and any prescribed eyedrops should be used as directed.
Common Side Effects
While most people experience few side effects, you might feel slight irritation and redness in and around the treated eye. Your vision may also be temporarily affected with blurred or double vision, you may see floaters or flickering points, or you may have a red tint to your sight. If this bothers you, the eye shield can be applied for another hour or 2 to help reduce these symptoms.
If you experience any of the following side effects, call your ophthalmologist immediately:
- Sudden loss of vision
- Severe pain
- Redness and swelling
- Itching
- Discharge
- Inability to distinguish light
Learn more about cataract surgery at our surgical center just minutes from downtown Louisville and schedule your consultation at one of our twelve locations today. At Dr. Black’s Eye Associates, we are known for our cutting-edge technology and revolutionary femtosecond laser cataract surgery technique. Our center of excellence will treat you like family and give you optimal results.
