There are two main statistics we want to introduce when it comes to cataracts. First, the number of people in the United States with cataracts is expected to double from more than 24 million in 2010 to 50 million in 2050. Second, cataract surgery enjoys an impressive success rating of 98%.
Given these statistics, demand for cataract surgery is going to increase beyond the 2.5 million already performed each year in the US, and we here at Beverly Hills Eye Center in Los Angeles, California, are doing our part to meet this increase. Under the expert leadership of Dr. David Kamen, our team of ophthalmology experts has extensive experience helping our clients regain clear vision through cataract surgery.
If you’re considering cataract surgery, you likely want to know what to expect. We provide a brief timeline of the procedure here.
There isn’t much you need to do in advance of your cataract surgery. During your pre-surgery appointment, we review any medications and supplements you’re taking; we may ask that you pause some of them around the time of your surgery. We may also provide you with special eye drops before your surgery to ensure that your eyes are in good health.
You can do your part by planning ahead a little bit and ensuring that you have someone to drive you home following the procedure. We also suggest that you shift your schedule to accommodate a day or two free from obligations.
On the day of your scheduled cataract surgery, we may have you avoid solid foods for a certain amount of time before the procedure.
When you come in for surgery, which we perform right here in our office, we make you comfortable in the chair and then apply numbing drops to your eyes.
Once you’re ready, we use a no-stitch technique to remove your cloudy lens — using either a laser or ultrasound — and then we place your new intraocular lens.
In most cases, we perform this surgery in about 15 minutes.
Once you get home, we ask that you follow our aftercare instructions carefully. If we supply you with eye drops, please use them according to our directions. We may recommend that you shield your eyes with glasses and use an eye shield at night for further protection.
Results can vary from one person to the next. Some of our patients report clearer vision in just a few hours after the procedure while others take a little more time. In most cases, within a week or two after cataract surgery, you should be enjoying your ability to see more clearly again.
If you have any questions about this life-changing procedure or you’d like to schedule your surgery, please don’t hesitate to contact our Los Angeles office. Our expert team is here to guide you and we’re just a phone call away.
