Choosing an IOL and other steps to prepare for cataract surgery in our facility near Laguna Hills

Cataracts are a common eye problem that millions of Americans face at some point in their lives. Because much of the literature available on cataracts states that they can lead to vision loss, the development of this eye condition can be stressful. Though cataracts may seem frightening, modern technology has brought about excellent options for the treatment of this problem, allowing people the opportunity to preserve their best vision for many years.

Cataracts are most often associated with age, more commonly seen in older men and women. Recent data from research indicates that as many as 20.5 million people in our country aged 40 and older have a cataract, and at least 6 million in this age group have already had cataract surgery.

In preparation for cataract surgery, your eye doctor will conduct precise testing of the eye or eyes, and will consider any other vision issues that may need to be addressed during the cataract removal procedure. Part of the preparation process for cataract surgery is choosing the most appropriate IOL. In our facility near Lake Forest, CA, Dr. Salib discusses the various options available to patients so that their vision needs are successfully met.

There are several types of IOLs available. A standard IOL simply replaces the natural lens. However, other options are available so that problems like nearsightedness or farsightedness can be corrected. Today, patients may even choose astigmatism-correcting IOLs to improve vision after cataract surgery.

Additional preoperative steps

Before cataract surgery, patients are given in-depth instructions that outline how to prepare for surgery, as well as how to maximize recovery. Some of the common recommendations for eye surgery include:

Allow yourself a few days of rest at home before returning to work or other activities
Arrange reliable transportation on the day of your procedure, as well as for the following day, just in case you need medication or assistance to attend a post-operative follow-up
Please avoid alcoholic beverages in the 24 hours before your eye surgery
Dress comfortably, and wear no makeup to your procedure