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.
Tall Tale: I will be on eye drops for the remainder of my life after cataract surgery
Truth: Drops are usually needed only for a few weeks after surgery. It is very rare for a patient to need drops for months or years after surgery. You will begin drops a few days before surgery and continue them for 2-3 weeks after surgery.
Tall Tale: Cataract surgery is risky
Truth: Cataract surgery is one of the safest surgical procedures in all of medicine. It is also the most commonly performed surgery in the United States.
Tall Tale: It takes months to recover from cataract surgery
Truth: Most patients will notice an improvement in vision within a few days after cataract surgery. Others will notice more gradual improvement over the first couple of months.
Tall Tale: Cataracts can be cured with eye drops
Truth: There are no eye drops that can cure or prevent cataracts. Surgery is the only way to treat cataracts.
Tall Tale: My cataracts can come back after I get them removed
Truth: A cataract cannot grow back once it has been surgically removed, and the lens that is implanted will remain in your eye to help you see for the rest of your life. Approximately 30% of patients will develop a film behind the lens implant anytime from months to years after cataract surgery. This can be removed with a simple laser procedure called a YAG laser.
Tall Tale: Reading a lot and using the computer makes my cataracts get worse
Truth: Near vision tasks such as reading and computer use do not make cataracts worse. Cataract development is a natural part of the eye’s aging process. Trauma to the eye, as well as certain medications, can speed up the development of cataracts.
If your vision is bothersome contact CarlinVision at 770.979.2020 or visit CarlinVision.com. Our Board-Certified Ophthalmologists can determine the reason you are not seeing as clearly as you should. If you have a cataract, we will teach you about the condition and all your treatment options.
Carlin Vision is located at 2377 Lenora Church Rd, Snellville, GA 30078
