Getting Started
Your cataract procedure will begin by making sure you are properly comfortable. Cataract surgery is performed under anesthesia that may be administered locally or through an IV. You may also be given a mild sedative to help ensure full comfort at all times during your procedure.
The type of anesthesia and level of sedation appropriate for your procedure will be determined by our doctors during your cataract surgery evaluation.
During Surgery
Once you have been made completely comfortable, the eye surgeon will remove your cloudy lens. This is accomplished by making a small incision in your cornea and using either an ultrasound probe or special surgical instruments to break your cataract apart. When your cataract is small enough for easy extraction, our eye doctors may use gentle suction to remove it.
Following cataract removal, you will be fitted with an intraocular lens. The premium lens options offered by Piedmont Eye Surgical & Laser Center will be discussed during your initial consultation. Ultimately, the type of lens placed will be chosen based on its specific benefits for your unique vision needs.
Cataract surgery requires no stitches, but a protective eye shield will be applied after your artificial lens has been placed. The entire procedure generally takes less than one hour.
Following Cataract Surgery
You will need to arrange for a ride home following cataract surgery. Rest is necessary for 24 hours, making it a good idea to also arrange for some assistance during the first day. It is important that you wear your protective eye shield for the first 24 hours and while sleeping or napping in the first few weeks following surgery. This will help prevent accidental damage to your eye.
Blurry vision is common as your eye adjusts to the new lens, but this should greatly improve within one to two days. Itching and mild discomfort may also be part of the healing process. Take care not to scratch or apply pressure to your eye while you heal. The prescription eye drops will help control any discomfort and can be applied as needed.
Full recovery can take up to six weeks, but work and other activities can be resumed within just a few days. During your recovery period you will need to avoid heavy lifting, activities that can irritate your eyes such as swimming and those that can cause a rush of blood to the head including bending over and strenuous exercise. Our doctors will ask that you come in for follow up visits during your recovery period to ensure everything is progressing as it should.
Looking to the Future
Your prescription will change during and after your recovery. Our eye doctors will work closely with you to ensure your vision is as clear as possible at all times. After your eye has fully healed, a final prescription for eyeglasses, if necessary, will be written.
Please call 336-854-4441 to schedule your preliminary cataract surgery consultation.