What to Expect During Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is an amazingly quick outpatient procedure that can erase years of poor vision. The entire surgical process takes 10-15 minutes to perform.

When you decide to move forward with the procedure, it’s normal to feel a little nervous. Our staff at Pennachio Eye understands this and will do everything we can to make you as comfortable and relaxed as possible. We can even prescribe relaxation medication if you need it. The main goal is that you feel 100% confident in our surgical abilities.

Cataract Surgery Day

We will ask that you arrive before your surgery time to complete any necessary paperwork, give yourself time to relax and allow Dr. Michael P. Pennachio to perform one final check.

• Dilation eye drops will be placed into your eye and local anesthetics will be given. You will remain awake during the procedure, but will be comfortably sedated.
• Dr. Pennachio will create a small corneal incision to insert a tiny probe to gently break up the cloudy lens using ultrasound waves. This same tool is used to remove the lens fragments from the eye. This is called phacoemulsification.
• Through the same incision, Dr. Pennachio will insert your pre-chosen replacement intraocular lens (IOL). Depending on the type of vision goals you have after surgery, you may choose a monofocal, multifocal, or TORIC lens. Each lens will provide a different level of vision – possibly even reducing or eliminating the need for glasses after surgery.
• The incision is created to be self-sealing, eliminating the need for sutures in the majority of cases

The replacement lens you choose will be permanent and will feel natural in your eye.

After Cataract Surgery

After relaxing in our pre-op area for a while, you can go home. You will need someone to drive you home after surgery so you can rest for the remainder of the day. Wear an eye shield while sleeping as your eye heals to avoid hitting or rubbing your eye.

Your vision may be a bit blurry at first and your eye may be itchy or irritated – this is normal. The prescription eye drops will help minimize discomfort. If you experience any pain or worrisome symptoms, contact our office immediately.

Only one eye is treated at a time. If you have cataracts in both eyes, your second eye can be treated after the first has healed (minimum of 2 weeks later).

Deciding on Cataract Surgery

Remember: not all cataracts must be removed right away. The best way to know if your cataracts are developed enough to warrant surgery is by scheduling a cataract evaluation with us. Our informative exam will shed new light on your eye health and will help you learn more about your options for vision improvement.

Ready to learn more?

Read our cataract counselor to learn more about cataracts and cataract surgery.

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Schedule a Cataract Evaluation in Lake County, Florida

Contact us today to schedule a cataract evaluation in Clermont or Eustis and learn more about your options for vision improvement.