A cataract is a clouding of the lens in your eye. It affects your vision. Cataracts are very common in older people. By age 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. A cataract can occur in either or both eyes. It cannot spread from one eye to the other. Common symptoms are:
Andrew Hendershot, MD, an ophthalmologist at Ohio State's Havener Eye Institute, explains exactly what a cataract is and when cataract surgery is appropriate.
Amit Tandon, MD, an ophthalmologist at Ohio State's Havener Eye Institute, details the advancements of cataract surgery.
Prescriptions for eye drops will be electronically sent to your pharmacy. These drops will be used after the surgery. Any questions about your drops should be directed to the main number: 614-366-1270.
You must have a responsible adult that you know bring you to the surgery, preferably stay in the facility or at least check in with you and provide a contact number, and drive you home.
It is important to follow these precautions before arriving:
You should arrive at least ten minutes prior to your surgery, or as directed by the surgeon’s office. Check in at the reception desk. The staff will complete your paperwork and ensure you are identified correctly for your procedure.
Your family members or support person will be able to watch the surgery if they so desire. It is important that your family members or support person stay in the facility during your surgical visit so we can find them if we need information or if a care team member needs to speak to him or her.
Once your surgery is complete, you will leave wearing clear eye shields to protect your eyes. The shields should remain on until the following morning. Expect about four hours of discomfort, and we recommend taking a nap during this time if possible. Patients are required to have a driver to get home safely. You will be scheduled to come back in for a post op visit with your doctor the following morning.
The only restrictions after LASIK are no eye makeup for two days, and to avoid swimming pools and hot tubs.
If you have any concerns during the evening, please contact your surgeon. If you have any emergency needs, please go to the closest emergency department. A nurse from the Outpatient Surgery Center will call you the next business day to check on how you are feeling.
Our first concern is your recovery and any medical issues you may have. It is important to us that we provided you exceptional care. We encourage you to ask questions or share concerns when we call you.
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