The most common cause of cataracts is the natural aging process. As we get older, the lens of the eye can gradually lose its clarity and become cloudy, leading to a decline in vision quality. When this affects your daily life, it may be time to consider cataract surgery. Understanding how to prepare for cataract surgery can help ensure a smooth experience and the best possible outcome.
How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery: The First Steps
If you think you may have cataracts or have been diagnosed, it’s important to know how to prepare for cataract surgery right from the start. Your journey begins with a comprehensive cataract evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Cataract Evaluation
During your cataract evaluation, an eye doctor will examine your eyes to assess overall health and confirm the presence of cataracts. You’ll likely meet with a patient care counselor if cataracts are diagnosed. They will explain how to prepare for cataract surgery, what to expect on surgery day, and what recovery looks like.
What Happens During Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is the only way to remove a cataract. The procedure involves creating a tiny opening to remove the clouded natural lens of your eye. A clear, artificial lens (intraocular lens, or IOL) is inserted in its place.
Modern cataract surgery uses advanced technology, such as phacoemulsification, which allows the cloudy lens to be removed through a small, self-healing incision. Your surgeon will help you decide whether a standard monofocal lens or an advanced technology lens is the best fit for your lifestyle.
How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery: Lens Choices
Earlier lens options provided only one focal point (typically distance vision), requiring reading glasses after surgery. Today’s advanced lenses can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses by offering multiple focal points. Not everyone is a candidate for these lenses, so your doctor will perform additional testing to see if they are right for you.
Insurance Coverage for Cataract Surgery
Most insurance plans cover cataract surgery with a standard monofocal lens. If you choose advanced lenses or premium vision packages, these are usually not covered. Make sure to ask about costs, coverage, and payment options during your consultation so you can prepare financially.
How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery: Timeline
One Week Before Cataract Surgery
About a week prior, you’ll visit your eye doctor for painless measurements and tests to select the best lens implant. This is a good time to:
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Schedule your follow-up visits.
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Arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home on surgery day.
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Plan for help with household tasks, especially if you live alone.
The Night Before Cataract Surgery
Your provider may give you eye drops or medication to use the night before surgery. Follow these instructions carefully. Additional tips on how to prepare for cataract surgery the night before include:
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Avoid alcohol.
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Inform your doctor about all medications you take—some may require adjustment.
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Do not eat or drink after midnight unless instructed otherwise.
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Get a good night’s sleep and reach out to your provider if you feel anxious.
The Day of Cataract Surgery
On surgery day:
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Do not eat or drink anything.
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Wear comfortable clothing and avoid makeup, perfume, cologne, or lotions.
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Arrive at the surgical center early to handle paperwork and ask final questions.
Your ride home should ideally wait for you to finish so you won’t have to arrange transportation afterward. The procedure itself is quick, and most patients are on their way home within two hours.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center, we make it easy for patients to understand how to prepare for cataract surgery. Our team is here to guide you at every stage, from evaluation to recovery. If you have questions or are ready to schedule your cataract consultation, contact us today.