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Frequently Asked Questions 
Is having cataract removal painful? No. Prior to surgery, the eye is numbed, so the procedure itself is quite comfortable. Most people also get relaxing medication prior to the procedure for improved comfort. If you feel restless, the anesthesia doctor can administer some additional relaxing medication to make things more comfortable. Surgery at our surgicenter is so quick, most people are surprised to be already finished when it's over. Contact us today to learn more.
Will I need glasses after cataract removal? Many people still need glasses after the cataract has been removed. For many, glasses are only required for some activities. Nowadays, an increasing number of patients opt for enhanced cataract removal using an advanced lens implant, which can make it possible to both see distance and read without glasses, achieving a more youthful vision.
How much does surgery cost? Care is generally covered by medical insurance. This is a medical condition, and is covered the same way any other type of surgery is covered. Each insurance plan has slightly different rules, and the amount you have to pay depends on your plan. With some plans, there is no cost to you, in others, there are co-payments you will pay prior to the procedure. The staff will be happy to provide you with an estimate of the costs you will be responsible for when it is time. If you don't have medical insurance, we will be happy to provide a discount if you pay for the procedure in full. In addition, we accept checks and all major credit cards. Financing plans are available. While standard cataract removal is almost always covered by insurance, newer technology lens implants designed to correct both near and distant vision are often not covered by insurance.
How do I know if I need surgery? We recommend removing the cataract when it's causing reduced vision which interferes with your activities. Cataract is a condition in which the vision becomes weak or blurry because of the clouding of the natural lens inside the eye. Blurred vision can occur slowly over many years, or fairly rapidly over a few months. Generally, cataract affects people over age 60 or so, but is also found in younger people. In rare cases, it can develop in infants and small children. People tend to have more difficulty with reading, driving and other normal activities due to decreased vision. Difficulty with bright lights and glare is also common. A good rule of thumb is that if your vision is not what it should be, or is getting worse, have your eyes checked. There are several things which can affect the vision, and for many, the sooner you have it treated, the better the eye is likely to be in the long run. If you find out you need surgery, it's no cause for concern. With modern techniques, for having surgery can be easier than a visit to the dentist. Contact us to learn more about the treatment.
How soon can I lift things or bend down after surgery? There are virtually no restrictions on activities after modern no-stitch treatments. You can return immediately to normal activities. We ask that you avoid swimming and eye rubbing for a few weeks, but otherwise that you can resume normal activities on the day following the procedure. Many people remember that with older techniques, people had to be careful not to lift heavy things or bend down because it could damage the eye or affect the surgery. This affected many local people because of the Asian custom of bowing and because many are caregivers for family members and need to be able to lift them and turn them over in bed. Many patients also have young grandchildren and want to be able to lift them and play with them. Fortunately, with modern no-stitch surgery, our patients can return to lifting, bending, bowing and exercising immediately after the procedure! Don't be concerned if a friend or relative tells you not to bow or lift after surgery, they probably had the older style treatment. |
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Cataracts
Restore Youthful Vision
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Glaucoma
Learn more about the "sneak thief of sight"
