Cataract FAQs

Q: How long does the surgery take?

A: The procedure itself takes about ten minutes, but when you include the preoperative and postoperative time, it will take most patients two hours to complete the whole process.

Q: Is cataract surgery painful?

A:  This is a painless surgery, however we do administer a mild sedative to make the procedure more comfortable. Some patients have experienced a scratchy sensation (like an eyelash in the eye) and a mild soreness after the surgery, but that should improve within 24-48 hours. Patients can take an aspirin, Advil (ibuprofen), or Tylenol (acetaminophen) if necessary.

Q: How long until I can resume normal activities?

A: Right out of surgery, patients are advised to go home and rest for the remainder of the day, however they will not be able to drive home, so there should be someone there to assist them. They should be able to resume normal day-to-day activities within a few days.

Q: Will I need glasses after surgery?

A: It all depends on the type of IOL the patient chooses for their surgery. If they have the standard cataract surgery, they will have a monofocal lens that will improve distance vision, but they will need reading glasses to be able to see clearly for near vision. Patients who opt to use a premium lens implant, which corrects vision for a range of distances, will have a better chance of being free of reading glasses or bifocals following surgery.

Q: Can my cataract return?

A: It can never return because the old blurry lens, the cataract, was completely removed. Sometimes a secondary cataract (posterior capsular opacification) can occur, where the capsule that is left behind can become cloudy over time, but it is easily treated using a laser. This is a painless procedure that takes only a few minutes.

If you have any more questions or concerns, contact our Kerrville office today!