Cataract Surgery FAQs

Can I have both eyes done at once?

With any surgical procedure there are always risks and possible complications. Dr. Daynes will make sure one eye is stable and functioning well before he does the second eye. Then, should any complications arise with your surgery, only one eye will be affected instead of both. Second, each eye may need to be treated a little bit differently. At your follow-up visits, Dr. Daynes will check your vision and the eye’s response to the surgery. Using that information, he will know what to do at the 2nd surgery so the two eyes can work together to bring you the best vision possible. For these reasons, it is usually expected that you wait at least 2 weeks before having the second surgery.

What time is my surgery?

When you schedule your surgery, we cannot give you an exact time. The doctor will be doing many surgeries that day, and because we cannot predict the number of surgeries or the amount of time each will take, we cannot give you a specific time. Instead, the surgical center where you will be having surgery will be contacting you the day before surgery (Friday if your surgery is on a Monday) to tell you what time they would like you to be there, as well as give you any pre-surgery instructions they need you to follow.

How much will it cost?

The amount you will owe is different for everyone depending on your insurance. You will need to review your benefits with your insurance company to determine your deductible and the percentage you are responsible for. All of your post-op appointments within 90 days of surgery are included with the price of the surgery. Any other types of appointments will be billed as usual. Testing for glasses is not covered by most insurance and will also be billed.

Do I need a pre-authorization?

Most insurance companies do not require pre-authorization for cataract surgery. However, if there is a question or concern, we do contact the insurance company on your behalf and determine authorization for the procedure.

What can I expect from anesthesia?

Dr. Daynes will use either a local or topical anesthetic. In addition, an anesthesiologist will use IV sedation to keep you comfortable. This anesthesia will not put you completely to sleep, but you should be relaxed and unable to feel anything in the area the doctor is operating on. You will be able to respond to Dr. Daynes during surgery, and able to get up after the surgery. You will need a driver to take you home after you are released from the surgical center.

What is an AScan and why do I need it?

Dr. Daynes will be implanting a synthetic lens during surgery. The AScan is diagnostic testing that takes specific measurements of your eyes, and the data from this testing allows Dr. Daynes to choose the proper lens to implant during your surgery. It also helps determine your eligibility and/or compatibility with certain types of lenses. Along with the testing, at this appointment you will be educated about the different lens options available to you and receive instructions about the eye drops you will use before and after surgery.

How do I get my eye drops?

You will find your prescriptions in a packet given to you by our technician. She will also give you instructions for using the eye drops before and after surgery. You may fill these prescriptions at the pharmacy of your choice.

Why do I need three different eye drops?

Each prescription serves a different purpose and all are important for your surgery preparation and healing. One drop will be an antibiotic to prevent infection. You will also have a steroid drop and a non-steroidal drop that will prevent inflammation and swelling. These drops help the eye heal quickly and protect you from possible complications due to infection and inflammation.

Why won’t my insurance pay for a Toric or multi-focal lens?

When it comes to surgical procedures, your insurance covers only what is “medically necessary.” All that is ‘necessary’ to improve your vision is removal of the cataract and implantation of a standard monofocal lens, so that is all the insurance will cover. A multifocal or Toric lens is considered an upgrade because these advanced technologies reduce your need for, or dependence on, glasses. This is above and beyond what is “medically necessary” and therefore, the upgraded portion is not covered by your insurance.

What can I expect during recovery?

Recovery is usually quite rapid following cataract surgery, but you should still use caution in your daily activities. Make sure you follow the instructions given to you for eye drops. You can be lightly active, but do not do any lifting over 15 pounds or do any hard physical activity during the first few days after surgery. Do not get water/soap, etc.. in your eyes. You can let water run over your face but do not rub it in. Do not drive for the first 24-48 hours after surgery. Do not wear makeup for the first week after surgery. After the first week, be careful when applying and removing the makeup; avoid any eye rubbing and do not get anything in your eye.