I would like to share the story of my cataract surgery, my experience leading up to the surgery, and what happened on the day and afterwards. It is all good and highly recommended! Little did I know that this journey would be a remarkable turning point in my life. Here’s a detailed account of what happened before, during and after my cataract surgery. Welcome to my blog!
My eyes have always been the most important thing for me, often taken entirely for granted. I wore short-sighted (myopic) glasses from about the age 13 and always enjoyed near visual activities, including painting, embroidery, illumination, pottery and generally making things with my hands, which involved good near sight. Glasses were worn for distance only and were fun, followed by contact lenses for skiing, and then back to glasses over the years. I would take my glasses off for near vision. I think if I had been born a century ago, I would have made a good watchmaker.
About ten years ago, I noticed that the colours in one eye (left eye) were subtly warmer or different, especially when reading in bed. I started to close my left eye to read, and reading just with my right eye became a habit. As the sight deteriorated incrementally, I recalled that I had suffered an accidental blow to my left eye about ten years before and suspected that had accelerated the cataract. I had no family history of cataracts.
Insidiously reading in the evenings became more difficult over time, especially closing one eye! So I took to listening to Audiobooks…
Over the last three years, driving at night became a problem, I found I disliked it, especially if it was both dark and raining, with the glare of car headlights. Increasingly, when required to drive, I found oncoming lights caused a bright, lasting glare, and I felt unsafe driving.
I consulted an eye doctor for new glasses and was told “you have a cataract”, however, they were not in a hurry to recommend surgery, and neither was I accepting the need to have cataract surgery. It was not until the central vision began to be affected with a troublesome significant blur, causing me to lose depth perception, that it became critical, and I realised something had to be done. Even simple tasks such as walking down stairs became difficult with “one eye”.
Stubbornly, I decided to wait another year as I was busy working and worried about the effect cataract surgery could have on my job. I have to admit I was scared of the thought of cataract surgery too.
Finally, I saw a wonderful Ophthalmologist at Clinica London who said “I will do your cataract” and the journey began. He imbued me with confidence that I could see clearly again, and I agreed to go ahead. From his CV and reputation, I knew he was one of the top cataract surgeons, though the other four cataract surgeons at Clinica London also had much to recommend.
My ophthalmologist conducted a thorough eye examination and explained the procedure to me in detail. We discussed the type of intraocular lens (IOL) that would be implanted to replace my clouded natural lens and the surgical options available.
I took my regular glasses to the consultation assessment and first had my vision tested by the optometrist. Then I had various vision tests, including one called The Biometry, which was to measure the size of my eye for the intraocular lens (IOL). Dilating drops were put in, and I then waited back in the waiting room for them to work. My vision improved slightly with the drops because my cataract was right in the visual axis, a posterior sub-capsular cataract.
The consultant then reviewed my ophthalmic tests and asked me about my vision and what I wanted to be able to do after the cataract surgery. I was offered a special focusing lens but opted for a more traditional or standard lens to maintain near vision. I had always worn glasses and was happy to continue to wear them for distances such as driving and wanted to see clearly from near. He chose my intraocular lens power to fit these wishes. Many people opt to get out of glasses, but I was happy to continue to wear them. He checked the back of my eyes (healthy!). I was given all the information about the cataract surgery and signed the consent form.
The date for surgery was chosen, just three weeks away. I was so excited!
I had admitted I had a cataract and that it was really bothering me, and I wanted to be able to see well again. I received lots of communications from the hospital about what to do on the day, such as eating a normal breakfast, where to come, and when. I was introduced by email to my anaesthetist, who would be doing the local anaesthetic and Intravenous sedation, and made to feel that everything was going to go well. I knew I was in good hands.
I had my pre-assessment consultation with the nurse about a week before the surgery. Although all the pre-operative and post-operative care was done at Clinica London, the surgery was done in a dedicated private cataract suite at a main private hospital.
The time had finally arrived, the day I had been both anxious and hopeful about for weeks: My Cataract Surgery – MCS.
The morning of the surgery, I was trying to finish all my emails, do all my calls and get to the hospital. I knew I had to take a few days off from work, so it seemed I had to meet so many deadlines.
I dressed in comfortable clothing and popped my bus pass in my handbag, along with my mobile phone, house keys and a small amount of money plus a credit card in case it was needed.
I got on the bus and went along to the hospital. Arriving a little early, I sat in a café opposite the hospital for 20 minutes, then made my way up to the ward.
The Ophthalmic Consultant greeted me as I came in, and a nurse took me to my small room. After measuring my blood pressure and temperature, the nurse handed me a menu and asked me to choose my lunch! Life would continue “After Cataract Surgery” – ACS.
The nurses and staff were friendly and reassuring, which helped alleviate all of my nervousness.
A mixture of emotions coursed through me. The prospect of clearer vision and improved quality of life excited me, but the thought of undergoing surgery also brought a sense of trepidation.
For those who may be facing this procedure, I hope my story can provide some insights and reassurance.
Before Surgery: Living with cataracts was a challenge. I struggled with blurred vision, difficulty driving at night, and reading became increasingly frustrating. As the cataracts progressed, my quality of life was noticeably impacted. After consulting with my eye doctor, we decided it was time to step toward cataract surgery.
Preparation and Expectations: Leading up to the surgery, I admit I had some nerves. It’s only natural to be apprehensive about any surgical procedure. My doctor thoroughly explained the process and addressed all my concerns, which helped ease my mind. I knew the surgery was common, safe, and had a high success rate, which gave me some comfort.
Day of Surgery: The day had finally arrived. I followed the pre-operative instructions diligently, and despite my nerves, I felt a sense of hope and anticipation. The surgical team was warm and supportive, which helped create a calming environment. The procedure itself was relatively quick, done under sedative local anaesthesia, and I was surprised by how painless it was. The thought of seeing more clearly after so long was exhilarating!
Recovery Period: Immediately after the surgery, I rested at the clinic briefly before heading home. My doctor had prescribed some eye drops and advised me to take it easy for a few days. I followed their instructions carefully to promote healing and minimise any complications.
The First Few Days: During the initial days after the surgery, I experienced mild discomfort and sensitivity to light. My vision was slightly hazy, but my doctor had warned me about this, and I knew it would improve with time. I took this opportunity to relax, listen to audiobooks, and let my eyes rest for a couple of days, then was back at work by Day 3 after surgery.
The Magic of Clarity: As the days passed, I could feel my vision improving significantly. Colours became more vibrant, and the world seemed sharper than ever before. The joy of being able to read a book without squinting, closing one eye, and driving confidently at night was indescribable. It was like rediscovering the beauty of the world!
Long-Term Impact: It’s been over a month since the surgery, and I continue to marvel at the difference it has made in my life. The independence and freedom from the limitations caused by cataracts have been truly life-changing. I know I will require a small Laser procedure in a few months and that the vision will blur a little before this, but I am undaunted.
Cataract surgery has given me a positive attitude on life ahead. I feel like I have regained an extra 15 years of my active life. The decision to undergo this procedure was undoubtedly the right one for me. If you are considering cataract surgery, remember that it’s a well-established and relatively safe procedure that can significantly improve your vision and overall well-being. Of course, there can be complications, hence I waited until I felt ready for the surgery.
Always consult with your ophthalmologist in order to determine the best course of action for your unique situation. Remember, a clearer outlook is just around the corner!
Clinica London has 5 cataract surgeons. All are wonderfully trained to carry out cataract surgery to the highest level. The surgeon I chose gave me first-class treatment and is to be congratulated for their intra-ocular ophthalmic cataract skills.
Author is Anonymous.
By “Frederick Loveridge” pen name of the real patient who wishes to remain anonymous. The author is 69 years old, a professionally employed person, who now feels 55 to 60 years old with a new clear vision.
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