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Cataracts & IOLs FAQs

Cataracts & IOLs FAQs

Before Your Surgery

Where does the cataract or Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) surgery take place?
All CODET surgeries and procedures are performed here in our own modern facility. Cataract and RLE surgeries are conducted in our state-of-the-art Operating Rooms.

What happens if I postpone the removal of my cataract?
There is an ideal window of time for the cataract to be removed by the surgeon. Beyond that window, the eye is affected more by the surgery, and recovery time is longer.

What population is the most conducive to cataracts?
About half of those age 65 and older develop cataracts, with the percentage increasing at 75 years.

During Your Procedure

How is the cataract removed?
The surgeon makes a small incision in the eye and using ultrasound, the hardened, opaque lens (the cataract) is removed.

Is cataract surgery painful?
No. For Cataract and Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) surgery, we use local anesthesia and intravenous sedation, which means no pain for the patient.

What type of technique is used in the implantation of the IOL?
The CODET Vision Institute employs the micro-incision technique with ultrasound for cataract and RLE surgery.

Will you operate on both of my eyes on the same day?
No. To allow for optimal results, we operate on each eye on a different day, usually 48 hours apart.

What type of anesthesia is used?
Normally, we administer a mild intravenous sedation and topical anesthesia.

Post Procedure Recovery and Care

What is the post-operative recuperation period?
Most patients will be back to their normal daily activities 3 days after surgery.

How long will my eye be covered by a patch?
As technology has advanced, patch time has shortened substantially. Your eye will only require a patch for 3 hours on the day of the surgery.

How soon can I travel after the procedure?
Because Cataract and RLE surgery is only marginally invasive, you are able to travel the day after the surgery.

Is it possible for the cataract to reappear?
No. The cataract does not reappear as the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial one.

Will I need to wear glasses after cataract surgery?
This depends on the type of lens that is implanted. The Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) and PanOptix Intraocular Lens (IOL) may correct vision at three distances after cataract surgery, without the need for glasses or contacts.

Can I board an airplane soon after surgery?   
In most cases, flying on an airplane is permitted after cataract surgery.

Will I be able to drive the day after cataract surgery?
Yes. Barring any complications, most people are able to drive the following day.

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