20/20 - Dr Carlin Archives - Page 2 of 2

Tall tales about cataract surgery

October 18, 2016

Tall Tale: My cataract has to be “ripe” before I can have surgery

Truth: Cataracts do not have to reach a particular maturity level. The right time to inquire about cataract surgery is when you notice problems with your vision. Most people need surgery when the cataract interferes with their vision for work, play and other daily tasks.

Tall Tale: You have to lie flat on your back for 24 hours after cataract surgery
Truth: You do not have to lie flat. You may sleep in any way that makes you comfortable as long as you keep the patch over your eye the first night after surgery.

Tall Tale: You can’t bend over after surgery
Truth: Bending over to do common household tasks is usually not a problem after surgery. You should avoid lifting heavy objects (more than 25 pounds), swimming and eye rubbing for one week after surgery.

Tall Tale: I will have sutures in my eye after cataract surgery
Truth: No sutures are generally used for cataract surgery. The incision is so small that it heals without sutures.

Tall Tale: You get a shot in your eye during cataract surgery
Truth: No shots are given in the eye during cataract surgery. Most surgeries are performed with topical anesthesia and light (“twilight”) sedation. In some cases, after anesthesia is administered, an anesthesiologist will inject numbing medication in the area surrounding your eye in order to make your eye unable to see or move during the procedure.

Tall Tale: Cataract surgery hurts
Truth: You should not experience pain during cataract surgery. A few hours after surgery, you may notice mild scratchiness or soreness that is relieved by taking an over the counter medicine such as Tylenol or Advil.

Tall Tale: I will be put completely to sleep during cataract surgery
Truth: In most cases, general anesthesia is not required. On the day of surgery, you will meet with an anesthesiologist to discuss what type of anesthesia will be best for you. Most people receive light anesthesia through an IV, as well as topical anesthesia, to relax and feel more comfortable.

Tall Tale: My vision insurance will cover the cost of cataract surgery
Truth: Your medical insurance covers the cost of cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is not covered under your vision insurance policy. We check with your medical insurance to make sure surgery is covered before proceeding.

If your vision is bothersome contact an Ophthalmologist.

Visit CarlinVision.com for more information.

Life after cataract surgery

August 16, 2016

Cataracts have existed for centuries. With state-of-the-art surgical techniques, cataract surgery has become one of the safest and more effective outpatient procedures. According to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, 3 million Americans undergo cataract surgery each year, with an overall success rate of 98% or higher.

When is surgery recommended for cataracts?

July 19, 2016

When is surgery recommended for cataracts?
By Richard Carlin, MD

When Dr. Richard Carlin started practicing 40 years ago, cataracts were removed only after the patient was legally blind, unable to see the big “E” on the eye chart, unable to see to drive, read or watch TV.

What is a cataract?

June 9, 2016

A cataract is a cloudiness of the lens inside of the eye, caused by a build-up of denatured proteins. When a cataract forms, it prevents light from passing through the lens onto the retina (the back of your eye).

The ever-changing landscape of healthcare

November 18, 2013

The ever-changing landscape of healthcare
By Richard Carlin, MD

With the introduction of the Affordable Care Act, Obamacare, there seems to be great fears as well as unknowns on how it will affect medicine. Having had eye problems for much of my life, I was particularly concerned on how it will affect my Ophthalmologist. Having grown up and lived in Gwinnett County, I have witnessed tremendous change in the medical community over the past 40 years. Many physicians and medical practices have come and gone, but there is one who I have visited from childhood and now bring my own children – CarlinVision.

Optical quality – why does it matter?

September 12, 2013

Optical quality – why does it matter?
By Richard Carlin, MD

Never before in history has the consumer had so many choices in where to purchase goods and services. From the big box stores to the mom and pop store, from the retail chain store to the internet, choices are seemingly endless. Certainly the optical industry has not escaped this trend. But make no mistake, choice is a good thing.

Lasik: the benefit/cost ratio

May 23, 2013

In making a decision, it often comes down to the benefit vs. the cost. Is our desire for something we want worth its cost? Let’s look at Lasik, an in-office procedure alternative to wearing glasses or contact lenses and check its benefit/cost ratio.

20/20 – Dr Carlin