written or reviewed by
L. Dean Flanders, M.D.

3 Questions to Ask Your Cataract Surgeon

You have just been diagnosed with cataracts, and you are now deep in the search for answers to how cataract surgery works, how safe it is, and what your options are. You are also busy checking out recommendations for a successful and experienced ophthalmologist in order to find the right surgeon for you.

You may even have a few evaluations scheduled as part of your search for the right doctor. So what now? How can you best make use of the time you have with the ophthalmologists you are considering? First of all, be sure to familiarize yourself with a few basic cataract facts, allowing you to save the time you have with your doctor for the questions that matter.

Cataract Basics

• Cataracts are a medical condition affecting the eyes that is common in adults aged 40 and older, with frequency increasing as we age.
• Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure. Including prep and post-op monitoring, you’ll be out the door and on your way home in two to three hours.
• Because you receive sedation during the surgery you won’t be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. You will be required to arrive with a family member or friend who can ensure you get home to relax and start your healing process.
• The procedure itself involves the replacement of your eye’s natural, clouded lens with an artificial lens known as an intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision.
• Depending on your circumstances, you may significantly reduce your reliance on glasses or contacts after surgery.

Now that we have the basics out of the way, let’s look at suggested questions to ask your ophthalmologist prior to making the decision on which doctor is right for you. First, know that meeting with an eye surgeon does not equate a commitment for them to perform your surgery. Did you feel comfortable in their office? What about with the doctor and staff? Were all of your questions answered? Were you treated courteously and professionally? These points matter and help ensure you are comfortable with your final decision.

Questions to Ask Your (Potential) Cataract Surgeon

Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?

If they guarantee you will not need glasses, it’s time to find a new eye surgeon. Having a mild residual glasses prescription is normal after cataract surgery. It is true that many people are not reliant on glasses for most activities after surgery, however, needing glasses in certain conditions such and driving at night or reading in low light conditions is very common.

Am I good candidate for an upgraded intraocular lens?

Standard cataract surgery is designed to correct near or far sightedness and can greatly improve the clarity of your vision. However most patients also have conditions known as astigmatism and presbyopia which also contribute to a patient’s need for glasses both before and after cataract surgery. Thankfully, advancements in intraocular lens technology have provided options to correct both astigmatism and presbyopia at the time of surgery and further decrease your reliance for glasses after cataract surgery using premium lens implants. Your surgeon should discuss whether or not you are a candidate for these types of lenses with you prior to surgery.

Will I need enhancement surgery?

Cataract surgery is a one-time procedure, and the intraocular lens that is placed at the time of surgery is designed to last for the rest of your life. Occasionally, however, patients can develop cloudiness behind the intraocular lens that can cause blurry vision. The cloudiness can be cleared by an in-office laser procedure that is safe and can restore clear vision.

Thinking about having cataract surgery in the Washington DC area? Schedule a consultation with Washington Eye Physicians and Surgeons today!