Will I be dilated for my cataract evaluation and will I need a driver?

In order to properly examine your eye health, our doctors prefer to perform a thorough dilated eye examination. Some patients feel more comfortable having a driver while dilated because of the resulting sensitivity to light, but a driver is not required. We will provide a pair of disposable sunglasses at the time of your evaluation.

If I have cataract surgery, where will it be performed? 

Cataract & Laser Institute (CLI) is fortunate enough to be able to provide surgical services within our facilities at most locations. Occasionally (and at some locations), your surgery will be performed at a local hospital.

Do the eye vitamins that I see advertised on TV really help my eyes?

Although it is always important to check with your physician before starting any supplement, there are several well respected studies that have demonstrated benefits to taking nutri-ceuticals. Please ask your Cataract & Laser Institute eye professional if vitamins would be beneficial in your case.

Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?

Many patients experience a decrease in spectacle dependence following cataract surgery. Our CLI cataract team will thoroughly review your personalized options available in today's modern stitch-free, pain-free, and drop-free laser guided cataract surgery.

Will the cataract surgery hurt?

Our expert surgeons utilize the most precise micro-surgical techniques to keep our patients comfortable during surgery. Through the use of topical eye drops, and intra-venous conscious sedation (similar medicine is used in colonoscopy), most patients have little/no memory of their procedure.

Do I need to stop any medications before my cataract surgery?

Our cataract doctors will discuss your medications with you before surgery, and ensure you have a clear understanding of proper medication useage/stoppage before cataract surgery. At times, our surgeons may ask you (through communication with your primary physician) to stop certain medications (blood thinners for example). Each case is considered individually by our surgeons to maximize the safety and outcome of your surgery.

Do I have to have the air puff test? 

The short answer is 'no'. The “air puff” test (called non-contact tonometry) is one method for checking your eye pressure. If you prefer not to have your eye pressure checked using this test, your CLI team can utilize another method (applanation tonometry) to measure your pressure. This test will require a numbing eye drop be placed in your eye in order to check your eye pressure.

Will my insurance cover cataract surgery?

As with many procedures in medicine, insurance coverage requires that certain pre-surgical criteria be met in order to cover the costs of surgery. Your CLI team consists of insurance experts that will thoroughly investigate and explain your options and costs to you prior to cataract surgery. Once these criteria are met, there will still be some options from which you can choose, that have out-of-pocket costs. Feel free to contact your individual insurance carrier concerning your coverages, as well as co-pays and deductibles prior to surgery.

How long will my cataract surgery take and will I need a driver?

On the day of your cataract procedure, you will be at the office between 3-5 hours for testing, pre-op, paperwork, surgery and recovery. You will need a driver that will need to stay at the office for the entire duration of your appointment in order to drive you home because the sedation.

Can I eat or drink before cataract surgery?

Our surgeons recommend that you not eat anything after midnight. There are exceptions for our diabetic patients, which will be discussed during the surgery scheduling process.

Can I work out the week after surgery?

There are few restrictions on activity following cataract surgery. With the exception of heavy lifting, most activities are permitted. Exercises like spinning, treadmill, aerobics, and stair climbers are fine. We recommend that you do not perform weight lifting or yoga.
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