Cataract Surgery Expectations in Dallas
We offer modern options for cataract surgery because technology matters:
- We were one of the first practices in the area to offer laser assisted cataract surgery. This allows you to recover quickly and get back to your life.
- If you are wanting to reduce dependence on glasses and contact lenses after cataract surgery, we offer the latest lens implants, including Multifocal lenses, Light Adjustable lens (LAL), Toric lenses and Extended depth of focus (EDOF) lenses. As a Technology-forward Ophthalmology practice, our technology offerings change all the time and so always call 214 328-0444 to find out what we are currently offering.
- If you have any questions, please call 214 328-0444 for more details.
Cataract evaluation
Our Doctors will perform a comprehensive Eye Exam to assess your cataract, health of the eye and your general health. This exam includes dilation of the pupil. Please expect for the exam to last 90 minutes to 2 hours. Many patients say it is the most in-depth eye exam they have ever had. Once a cataract surgery decision is made, information about cataract surgery, lens implants, laser assistance, pricing and scheduling will be provided. Our Billing coordinator will contact your insurance company to obtain an estimate for your out of pocket costs for surgery.
Cataract Pre-op
Your Surgeon will examine your eyes again. Detailed measurements of your eyes are made. More information about cataract surgery, technology, pricing and scheduling is provided. A video about Cataract surgery will be viewed. At this point, you will decide how you would like your surgery done: Type of Lens and Laser vs no Laser. Your surgery will be scheduled. Full payment for surgery is required at the Pre-op. In some cases, a Medical Clearance may be requested from your Primary Care Doctor or Cardiologist.
2 days prior to Surgery
You will start using prescription eyedrops (typically an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory) in the eye pending surgery.
Day of Surgery
You will arrive at our Surgery Center in the Dexter Medical Building in Plano. This is a state of the art facility that is accredited by the Joint Commission. It is an office-based Surgery Center that offers Level 1 anesthesia so you do not have to worry about IVs. Your wait time at the Center is about ½ or 1/3 compared to surgeries done at a Hospital or ASC. Most patients are at the center for a little more than 1 hour.
Once registered, you will be walked down to the Pre-op Bay. A familiar staff member will check your vitals, confirm surgery and provide anesthesia.
The next 2 steps depend on the surgery you have chosen:
Laser Surgery
You will be brought to the dedicated laser suite, where the laser part of the surgery is performed. This takes about 5 minutes. You will then be walked to the Operating room, where the surgeon will open the laser made incisions and use an ultrasound process called phacoemulsification to remove your cataract. Since the laser softens the cataract, minimal energy is used for Laser cases. For patients who have had LASIK or PRK or have unusual eyes, a test called ORA intraoperative aberrometry may be used to double check the power of the lens implant to be used.
Manual Surgery (non-Laser)
You are brought to the Operating room. Two small incisions are made in the cornea with a surgical knife. A needle is used to make a round opening in the capsule of the lens. The surgeon cracks the cataract into smaller pieces. Phacoemulsification commences. ORA is not included in the Manual surgery package.
Lens Implantation
The desired lens is selected by the surgeon. It is folded and delivered into the eye via the corneal opening. Once it opens fully, it is placed in position. A special antibiotic is instilled inside the eye and on the surface of the eye. The patient is taken to recovery.
Post-op
The patient is walked to the Post-op bay, where vitals are rechecked. The patient and their caretaker are given post-op instructions.
The first post-op visit is on the afternoon of surgery (SAME DAY!). It does not need to be in our Plano location and can be at our other facilities. The vision is usually blurry the first day and improves over the time post-operatively. Post-op eyedrops will include an antibiotic, an anti-inflammatory and a steroid. These are used over the first 5 weeks. Some patients may need a glaucoma drop for the first week. For 2 weeks, protective eyewear is required during the daytime and a protective shield is required at bedtime or when taking a nap.
SPECIAL NOTE: Patients getting the LAL (light adjustable) lens will need to wear protective glasses to protect from UV light until their 2nd lock-in treatment is done. These glasses will be provided immediately after surgery.
