Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the process—from your first evaluation to recovery after the procedure.

5 STEPS FOR A CATARACT EVALUATION

1. A history of the eye complaints is taken, followed by vision testing. Around 5 minutes
2. The eyes are examined by the doctor on a machine called a slit lamp. If the cataract is sufficiently advanced, a measurement of the front layer or cornea is taken followed by the sonography of the eye to find out the power of the lens implant. The eye pressure is checked. Around 5 minutes
3. Drops are put in the eyes to expand the pupil for an examination of the retina. The patient is asked to wait for around 30 minutes for the drops to act.
4. The retina is examined and the patient is explained about the diagnosis and the treatment options. Around 5 minutes
5. Further counselling is done and he various lens options and the packages are explained.  The necessary blood tests are ordered and the eye drops are explained. Around 15 minutes

Total time spent is around 60 to 70 minutes

Once the blood reports are sent by WhatsApp or by e mail, the date of the surgery can be fixed up.

5 STEPS ON THE DAY OF SURGERY

1. Eye drops since morning. Normal medicines for diabetes, blood pressure, etc. Head bath in the morning. Normal diet in the morning. 
2. Come to the hospital 45 minutes before the operation. Eye measurements will be taken and eye drops will be put. Consent form should be signed by you and your attendant. You will be given a gown and a cap to wear before entering the surgery theatre.
3. You will be taken to the operation theatre. A small injection will be given around the eye. There will be no pain during surgery. You will be awake and aware of what is happening except within the eye because it is numb. Relax and breathe normally. You should not move your head from side to side. The doctor will be speaking to you to address any worries. The surgery will be over in around 15 minutes.
4. You are taken to the recovery room to rest for around half an hour. The medicines and eye drops will be explained to your attendant. 
5. You are free to leave for home. You may wear an eye patch till you reach home, and then remove it on your own. Alternatively, the patch can be removed and protective eye goggles should be worn. Do not forget to put eye drops as explained. Have your normal dinner. Wear the protective eye shield at bedtime.

AFTER SURGERY

Why is an eye patch necessary?

An eye patch is not always necessary. We prefer to keep the patch for a few hours for additional safety.

Will I see clearly immediately after surgery?

The vision will be blurred because of the eye drops that have been put before surgery and the anaesthesia during surgery. It will be better in a few hours and much better the next morning.

What are the precautions?

The main thing to remember is to NOT touch your eye. No rubbing at all.

No head bath or heavy exercises for a few days.

Put your eye drops as explained.

Use protective goggles during the day and an eye shield for a few days while sleeping

Can I have my normal diet?

Yes certainly. There is no problem with chewing or biting or eating sour items or ghee.

Can I use a pillow?

Yes. You can also sleep in any position comfortable to you.

Should I be worried if my eye is red or waters more?

Redness, watering, itching and pricking are normal on the way to recovery. Some patients have a little more than others.

What are the danger signs?

Any sudden drop in vision, intolerable pain, sensitivity to light or headache and vomiting must be immediately reported to the doctor.

When do I have to come for the first follow up visit?

You should come within 48 hours of the surgery. It will be a short visit taking only 5 minutes. You will not have to wait and will be seen in a short time after you reach.

How long will I have to put drops?

Usually eye drops are put for a total of 5 to 6 weeks. The daily dose is tapered as you recover.

If I have a cataract in my second eye, how soon can I undergo surgery?

You can safely undergo surgery in the second eye after 48 hours. Each patient’s comfort level is different and the date for the second eye is customised after the result of the first eye

When can I travel after my surgery?

Today cataract surgery is extremely safe. You can travel immediately after the surgery by public transport using protective goggles. You can also travel by flight in 5 days after the surgery.

Will I be prescribed glasses after surgery?

Yes, you will be prescribed a small number. It is recommended to have the glasses made as a backup for certain occasions like watching television or a film in a theatre or for extensive reading. Many patients, however, report that they do not use their glasses for most of their daily activities.

When will I be prescribed the glasses?

Most patients are prescribed glasses around 10 to 12 days after the surgery as the number stabilises by then. However glasses can be prescribed as early as the 5^th day if the work so demands.