Cataract Surgery Q & A
How do I know if I have cataracts?
Some people don’t have symptoms and cataracts go undetected until an eye exam. Often times though, symptoms of cataracts include:
- Poor night vision
- Blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
- Dim or yellow vision
How soon will I see results after Cataract surgery?
It depends. If you have mild cataracts, you might not even notice. In some cases, prescription glasses and more lighting during certain activities is all you’ll need. But as cataracts grow, it’s likely that you’ll require a more permanent solution. Using modern surgical techniques, Dr. Griessel removes your cataracts and puts plastic implant lenses (intraocular lenses) in their place. While this may sound uncomfortable, you won’t even notice them, and your vision problems should clear up shortly after surgery.
Am I awake for surgery?
Yes. Cataract surgery is relatively quick, typically lasting less than an hour. Dr. Griessel offers you medication to help you relax during the procedure. But for most, all you really need is the numbing anesthetic for your eye. Even though cataract surgery is done as an outpatient procedure while you’re awake, you’ll still need someone to drive you home afterwards, as your vision might be a little blurry.
Can Cataract surgery be performed on both eyes at the same time?
Typically, no. If Dr. Griessel determines that you need cataract surgery for each eye, she’ll probably schedule you for 2 separate surgeries that are a few weeks apart. This way, the eye that has been operated on has a chance to heal, restoring optimal vision before repairing the other eye.
My schedule is packed. How long should I expect to spend at each appointment?
You shouldn’t experience much pain with cataract surgery, and you’ll be ready to go home about half an hour after it’s completed. Dr. Griessel places a protective patch over the eye that was operated on. Aside from using daily eye drops for a few weeks, cataract surgery shouldn’t impact your lifestyle during your recovery.
For several weeks following your procedure, you’ll have to wear something to cover your eye at night, so you don’t rub it or bump it in your sleep. During the day, you might have to wear protective glasses, like sunglasses. Dr. Griessel lets you know when it’s safe to resume all of your normal daily activities.
LOCATION
Triad Ophthalmic Physicians, PLLC
150 Kimel Park Drive, Suite 200
Winston-Salem, NC 27103
Phone: 336-760-2240
Fax: 336-760-2239
OFFICE HOURS
Monday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Tuesday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Wednesday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Thursday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Friday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Saturday - Closed
Sunday - Closed