Posted by: Heart of America Eye Care in About Cataracts, Belton, Our Team, Overland Park, Physicians' Surgery Center, Shawnee Mission

Cataract Awareness Month is the perfect time to learn about this condition that affects millions of people around the world. If you or someone you care about is considering cataract surgery, you may have questions. At Heart of America Eye Care, near the Kansas City metropolitan area, we focus on helping patients understand their options so they can make the ideal decisions for their vision.

Below, we cover key questions to ask before cataract surgery, so you can feel confident about taking the next step.

1. What are the early symptoms of cataracts?

Early symptoms of cataracts can be different for each person, but common signs include blurry or cloudy vision, difficulty seeing in low light, increased sensitivity to light, and changes in color perception. Some people might also notice double vision or halos around lights.

2. What is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery involves removing a cloudy lens within the eye and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), which allows patients to see more clearly.

3. What does an ophthalmologist do during cataract surgery?

So, what does an ophthalmologist do during cataract surgery?

  • Numbs your eye with local anesthesia
  • Makes a small cut in your cornea
  • Removes the cloudy lens using advanced tools
  • Replaces it with a custom lens designed for your vision needs

Our goal during Cataract Awareness Month is to provide education and help ease any concerns you may have about surgery, making your journey as simple and stress-free as possible.

4. Is cataract surgery safe?

Cataract surgery is considered safe when performed by a skilled ophthalmologist. However, like any surgery, there are some risks and possible complications. Our team will explain these risks beforehand and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe surgery.

5. How fast is recovery?

Most people notice clearer vision within a few days of cataract surgery. You might experience some sensitivity to light and blurry vision at first, but this should improve as your eyes heal.

6. How should I prepare for surgery?

There are a few steps you can take to prepare for cataract surgery:

  • Follow preoperative instructions provided by our staff
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home, as you will not be able to drive yourself
  • Arrive at your appointment on time and with any necessary paperwork or insurance information

7. How do I know if I’m a candidate?

Ideal candidates for cataract surgery are in good overall health and are experiencing vision problems such as difficulty seeing in low light. However, any eye infections or ongoing medical issues may impact your eligibility. A thorough examination by your ophthalmologist will help determine your candidacy.

8. What happens if I delay cataract surgery?

While early symptoms of cataracts may seem manageable, delaying surgery can cause your vision to worsen and make daily tasks even harder. Addressing cataracts early is often the best option possible.

9. What should I expect on the day of surgery?

On surgery day:

  • You’ll receive local anesthesia to ensure your comfort
  • The procedure will typically take less than 15 minutes per eye
  • After a brief recovery period, you’ll return home to rest

10. Why should I work with Heart of America Eye Care?

At Heart of America Eye Care, we have years of experience performing cataract surgeries with successful results. With a caring team, convenient locations in the Kansas City metropolitan area, and advanced tools and technologies, we’re committed to providing top-quality care.

Book a cataract consultation today

So, what are the symptoms of cataracts, and what does an ophthalmologist do to address them? During Cataract Awareness Month, our team members at Heart of America Eye Care near Kansas City, KS, are dedicated to answering common questions and raising awareness about this eye condition. If you or a loved one is experiencing sensitivity to light or difficulty seeing in low light, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with our team.