Preparing for Your Cataract Surgery at Illinois Eye Center
At Illinois Eye Center, we understand that cataract surgery can be a life-changing procedure. To help you feel confident and prepared, we’ve streamlined our process to offer personalized care every step of the way. Here’s what you can expect as you prepare for your cataract surgery.
Personalized Guidance from Your Surgical Scheduler
When you choose Illinois Eye Center for your cataract surgery, you’ll be paired with a Personal Surgical Scheduler dedicated to guiding you through the entire process. Your scheduler will:
- Thoroughly explain the cataract surgery procedure and answer your questions.
- Review your intraocular lens (IOL) options and help you select the best choice for your lifestyle.
- Ensure you feel comfortable and confident about your personalized treatment plan.
We take pride in offering customized cataract surgery tailored specifically to your individual visual goals and daily activities.
Understanding Your Lens Options
Choosing the right intraocular lens (IOL) is an important part of your cataract surgery. Illinois Eye Center offers a variety of lens options designed to meet different vision needs. Your Personal Surgical Scheduler will discuss these choices with you, helping you select the IOL that best aligns with your vision goals and lifestyle.
Included with Surgery
Traditional IOLs
Provides the best possible vision at one distance (far away OR near).
Pros:
- Good distance OR near vision in those with minimal astigmatism.
- Good contrast/sharpness in low light.
Cons:
- Still need glasses sometimes and often require glasses full time.
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Intermediate
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Advanced Technology
Toric IOLs ($)
have extra built-in correction for astigmatism.
Pros:
- Good distance vision in those with higher amounts of astigmatism.
- Good contrast/sharpness in low light.
Cons:
- Correct vision for only one distance.
- Need glasses for near/intermediate tasks.
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Intermediate
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Astigmatism
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Advanced Technology
Multifocal IOLs ($$)
have multiple corrective zones built into the lens.
Pros:
- Full range of focus (far, intermediate, near).
- Eliminates or decreases the need for glasses.
Cons:
- Can worsen night vision (glare/halos) and affect contrast/sharpness.
- Not everyone is a candidate.
Near
Intermediate
Distance
Astigmatism
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Note: Individual results may vary for all options above; multifocal and toric IOLs are not covered by insurance; patient is responsible for their own insurance co-pays, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Cataract FAQ
Have questions about cataract surgery? You’re not alone. We’ve answered the most common questions patients ask—from what to expect before and after the procedure to recovery times and vision outcomes. Our goal is to help you feel informed, confident, and prepared every step of the way.
What is a cataract & how does it develop?
A clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which leads to blurring of vision. Cataracts develop as we age, so everyone acquires them eventually.
How are cataracts removed?
By a surgical procedure that uses ultrasound (sound waves) to soften the cloudy lens and remove it through a small incision.
How long does the procedure take?
Routine cases typically take less than 15 minutes.
Am I asleep during the surgery?
Since the procedure takes little time, it is usually unnecessary to put you to sleep using general anesthesia. This actually makes your surgery even safer. Eye drops are used to numb the eye and a mild IV sedative is administered.
Are both eyes done at the same time?
No, cataracts are generally removed sequentially, often one to two weeks apart.
Do cataracts grow back?
No, once a cataract is removed it will not grow back. In about 20% of patients, a “secondary membrane” may form behind the implant. This may lead to vision symptoms similar to what was experienced with the original cataract. A simple, in-office laser procedure is used to polish away the “secondary membrane”.
Will I need to take eye drops?
Yes, you will be on eye drops for about one month after cataract surgery for each eye to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
Do I need to use eye drops long term?
Unless prescribed for an unrelated condition, long term eye drop use is not necessary after cataract surgery. Some people find that moisturizing drops (“artificial tears”) are soothing and it is safe to use those up to several times per day, long term.
What about work or activities after surgery?
The activity schedule is far less restricted than in the past. A patient is able to do all the average daily activities such as dressing oneself, bending over, stooping, going up and down stairs, cooking, reading, sewing, watching television, and working out. Patient may resume driving once given permission to do so by their surgeon.
Virtually any job type or activities can be resumed the next day following surgery. Eye protection is always recommended when dust or debris could enter your eye. Any concern regarding activities should be addressed with your surgeon.
How long until I can get new glasses?
We recommend that you wait at least three to four weeks prior to getting measured for new eyeglasses. This allows for adequate healing to take place.
Do I need to wear sunglasses?
It’s up to you. Some people find that sunglasses make their eyes more comfortable in the weeks following cataract surgery. Wearing sunglasses is not mandatory and you will not damage your eyes if you choose not to wear them. Modern implants have a filter for ultraviolet light, so exposure to sunlight will not harm your eye.