I just got my cataract surgery scheduled, but it’s not until June and I’m feeling really impatient. I’m so ready to see clearly again, but June was the earliest the surgeon could fit me in. For those who have had it, what was your experience and how is your vision now?
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Have you checked out the r/cataractsurgery community yet?
I’m getting close to that point. I just got a ‘last resort’ prescription for glasses, and if these don’t provide enough clarity, surgery is the next step. I’d almost rather just skip to the surgery because I’m so fed up with not being able to see well or drive at night.
I had cataracts when I was 40. It was a very simple procedure. It took about a week for my first eye to settle because it stayed dilated—unusual, but it happens. The results are great, though it took my brain a full year to completely adjust. They’ll give you something to help you relax during the surgery. The first time didn’t quite kick in, so I asked for more for the second eye. I think they were used to older patients and my 40-year-old metabolism needed a bit more. Don’t be shy about asking for more if you’re nervous, because the visual aspect is a bit trippy. There’s no pain, just a bit of a strange sensation. It’s a very easy process overall. Just be prepared for lots of eye drops!
My mom had hers done last year. I’ve got the same vision issues—thanks to genetics! She is absolutely thrilled with her new eyes!
I’m 78 and had both eyes done two weeks apart about two and a half years ago. It was very smooth. I chose to keep wearing glasses since I’ve had them since I was a kid and don’t mind them. My sister-in-law had hers done around the same time but chose the no-glasses option; now she has to use readers for everything up close and it’s driving her crazy. She really regrets her choice. My vision is excellent now, whereas before I was struggling with distance and afraid to drive. I do deal with bad dry eye now and have to wear sunglasses outside unless it’s very cloudy. The drop schedule before surgery was intense, but the surgery itself was nothing. The sedation makes you forget it all. I didn’t even realize the first one was finished until it was over.
I had congenital cataracts in my 20s. The surgery was incredibly easy. It felt like someone finally flipped the light switch on.
It’s fantastic. Cataracts are miserable, but the surgery gave me nearly perfect vision. I only need readers for close-up stuff or when my eyes are tired.
My last eye exam was in June, and they told me cataracts are starting to develop slowly. They prescribed some drops that cost $60 an ounce which my insurance wouldn’t cover. I found some generic ones at Rite-Aid with the same ingredients for only $8. They think it’ll be 10 years before I actually need surgery.
My husband just went through this. The surgery itself was fine and he could see as soon as we left. Just a heads up: he ended up being allergic to the antibiotic drops. We didn’t realize that was possible, so when his condition worsened, we just used the drops more diligently. It’s rare, but if they burn and your vision starts to drop, don’t make our mistake. He’s getting better, but definitely keep an eye out for reactions to the drops!
I’m jealous! I finally got an eye exam today and was referred, but my consultation isn’t until mid-June, so who knows when the actual surgery will be. My left eye has gotten worse so quickly and it’s so frustrating. I’ve been looking into VisiSharp to see if it helps support my vision while I wait for my appointment.