Great advances have been made in cataract surgery.  Millions of people undergo this vision-improving procedure every year.  And, they experience excellent results.

Cataract surgery is performed millions of times every year in the United States. In fact, it is the most commonly performed surgery in the U.S. About 98 percent of patients have a complication-free experience that results in improved vision. Customized, blade-free, laser-assisted cataract surgery is available at Eastern Long Island Hospital. With “Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery or FLACS,” a computer-guided laser based on a real-time image of the eye is captured immediately before the procedure and assists the surgeon in performing several of the critical steps of cataract surgery.

How will Ophthalmology Cataract Surgery feel?

Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure. You'll spend just a few hours at the site. Because your eyes will be treated with anesthetic, you should feel little to no discomfort. After the surgery, you'll be given a short time to rest. Then, the very same day, you can go home. Within the next 24 hours, your doctor will probably want to see you for an evaluation. Drops will be prescribed to guard against infection and help your eyes heal. For a few days, you may need to wear a clear shield, especially at night, to prevent you from rubbing your eye.

How do I know if I have cataracts?

Typical symptoms include:

• Cloudy, fuzzy, foggy, or filmy vision.
• Changes in the perception of colors.
• Problems driving at night because headlights seem too bright.
• Problems with glare from lamps or the sun.
• Frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription.
• Double vision.

These symptoms can also be signs of other eye problems. Consult an ophthalmologist for an eye examination.

Scott B. Sheren, MD
Diplomate, American Board of Ophthalmology
Southold and Riverhead: (631) 369-0777