Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is an elective surgical procedure performed by an ophthalmologist in an outpatient surgery center or a hospital. During cataract surgery, the surgeon breaks the patient's cloudy lens into pieces and removes it. The removed lens is then replaced with an artificial one called an intraocular implant, or IOL.

Why is Cataract Surgery Done?

Your doctor may suggest cataract surgery when the cataract begins to interfere with your normal daily activities, such as driving and reading. Surgery may also be recommended when your cataract hinders the treatment of another eye problem. For instance, doctors may advise cataract surgery if it makes it difficult for your eye doctor to examine the back of your eye, monitor, or treat other eye issues like age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. Just as a cataract impairs your vision, it can impede your doctor's ability to examine your eye. In most cases, delaying cataract surgery won't harm your eye, allowing you time to consider your options. If your vision is still relatively good, you may not require cataract surgery for many years, if at all. When contemplating cataract surgery, consider the following questions:

• Can you see well enough to perform your job and drive safely?

• Do you struggle with reading or watching television?

• Is it challenging to cook, shop, do yardwork, climb stairs, or take medications?

• Does impaired vision affect your independence?

• Do bright lights worsen your vision?

What Are the Risks Associated With Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in medicine, and it is generally safe. However, as with any procedure, there are potential risks. Complications after cataract surgery are rare but can include:

• Inflammation

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Swelling

• Drooping eyelid

• Dislocation of the artificial lens

• Retinal detachment

• Glaucoma

• Secondary cataract

• Loss of vision

Your risk of complications is higher if you have another eye disease or a serious medical condition. Occasionally, cataract surgery may not improve vision due to underlying eye damage from conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration. Whenever possible, it's beneficial to address and treat other eye problems before deciding on cataract surgery.

Your Cataract Consultation

Before undergoing cataract surgery, our experienced ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough eye examination to evaluate your overall eye health, determine your candidacy for the procedure, and identify any potential risk factors. Here's what to expect during your visit:

1. Initial Preparations: Upon your arrival, one of our skilled technicians will assist you in preparing for your consultation with the doctor. To ensure a smooth process, we kindly request that you bring an updated list of your medical information, which should include:

• Updated Medical History: It is crucial that we have a comprehensive understanding of your medical history, including any prior surgeries. Please provide information on conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, previous eye surgeries (such as Lasik or retinal detachment surgery), the presence of a pacemaker/defibrillator, and any orthopedic conditions or surgeries that might affect your positioning during the cataract surgery (e.g., back or neck issues).

• Updated Medication List: To ensure your safety and the success of the surgery, we need an up-to-date list of your current medications. Certain medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements can impact the surgical process, so please provide detailed information about what you are currently taking. Be sure to include medications like anticoagulants (e.g., Coumadin, Plavix, Eliquis), prostate medications (e.g., Flomax, tamsulosin), and aspirin (both 81mg and 325mg).

• Allergies: Full disclosure of allergies is essential, especially those related to medications and latex. Please inform us of any allergies, including latex, anesthesia, and sulfa.

​​​​​​​2. Pre-Diagnostic Tests: After reviewing your medical history, our technician will conduct a series of pre-diagnostic tests that provide vital information for discussing cataract surgery. Some of these tests may have been performed previously, but they might need to be repeated if conducted by an external doctor or if it has been three months since the last testing. These tests include:

• Visual Acuity Check: Assessing your visual acuity helps us understand your current vision status.

• Refraction: This test determines the degree of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism in your eyes prior to surgery.

• Dilation: Dilation allows our doctor to thoroughly evaluate the extent of your cataract and examine your retina for any underlying medical issues or concerns that may be obscured by the cataract.

• Photography: Photos and scans of the back of your eye will be taken to assess any increased risk factors, such as macular degeneration or glaucoma.

Ensuring that we have the most accurate and up-to-date information is vital for a successful cataract consultation and surgery. Your cooperation in providing these details will contribute to the overall success of your cataract treatment. We look forward to assisting you on your journey to clearer vision

After Your Examination: Understanding Your Cataract Surgery Options

After undergoing a comprehensive eye examination with your cataract surgeon, you can anticipate an informative and personalized discussion about your eye health, the severity of your cataract, and the available options for your cataract surgery. This post-examination consultation is a pivotal step in your journey toward improved vision and clarity.
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Your cataract surgeon will take the time to explain the results of your examination in clear and accessible terms. This may include discussing the following key points:

• Cataract Assessment: Your surgeon will explain the extent of your cataract, its impact on your vision, and how it is affecting your daily life.

• Eye Health Evaluation: You will receive insights into the overall health of your eyes, including any additional eye conditions or concerns that were identified during the examination.

• Visual Acuity: Your surgeon will discuss your current visual acuity, both in terms of distance and near vision and any vision-related challenges you may be experiencing.
  
  

2. Understanding Your Needs:

Your surgeon will engage in a dialogue with you to understand your unique needs, preferences, and visual goals. This conversation is a crucial part of the process as it allows your surgeon to tailor the treatment plan to your individual requirements. Topics covered may include:

• Lifestyle Considerations: Your surgeon will inquire about your daily activities and hobbies to gain insight into your specific visual needs. For example, they may ask about driving, reading, computer work, or any other activities that are important to you.

• Visual Goals: You'll have the opportunity to express your goals for cataract surgery. Whether it's achieving clear distance vision, improving near vision, reducing reliance on glasses, or a combination of these, your surgeon will take your aspirations into account.
  
  

3. Discussing Cataract Surgery Options:

Based on the findings of your examination and your individual needs, your cataract surgeon will present you with a range of options for cataract surgery. These options may include:

• Intraocular Lens (IOL) Choices: Your surgeon will explain the different types of IOLs available, such as monofocal, Toric, multifocal, or laser-adjustable lenses. Each type has its advantages, and your surgeon will help you select the most suitable one for your vision goals.

• Surgical Techniques: Your surgeon will discuss the surgical approach, including traditional cataract surgery and advanced options like laser-assisted cataract surgery. The choice of technique will depend on your specific needs and the best practices in modern cataract surgery.

• Risks and Benefits: You will receive a comprehensive overview of the risks associated with cataract surgery, although they are generally rare, as well as the numerous benefits, including improved vision and quality of life.
  
  

4. Addressing Your Questions:

Throughout this discussion, your surgeon will encourage you to ask questions and seek clarification on any aspect of the procedure or your treatment plan. This open dialogue ensures that you are well informed and confident in your decision.
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5. Making an Informed Decision:

After this thorough consultation, you will have the information you need to make an informed decision about your cataract surgery. Your surgeon will guide you in selecting the most suitable options based on your eye health, lifestyle, and visual goals.

Scheduling Your Cataract Surgery:

Following your cataract consultation with your ophthalmologist, the surgical coordinator or a member of the ophthalmology team will typically follow up with you to provide additional information and assistance. Here's what you can expect during this phase:

• Discussion of Surgery Details: The surgical coordinator will proactively contact you to address any remaining questions or concerns you may have about the upcoming surgery. This is an opportunity for you to seek further clarification on various aspects of the procedure, such as the type of intraocular lens (IOL) that will be used and any specific preoperative instructions you need to adhere to.

• Scheduling the Surgery: During this interaction, the surgical coordinator will collaborate with you to select an appropriate surgery date. If you are undergoing cataract surgery for both eyes, they will be scheduled approximately two weeks apart, not on the same day. Typically, the eye with the worse vision will be addressed first.

Additionally, you will receive a separate appointment for pre-surgical measurements and counseling. The scheduling process will take into account your personal availability, the surgeon's schedule, and any preferences you may have concerning the timing of the procedure This meticulous approach ensures that you are well-prepared, fully informed, and comfortable throughout the entire cataract surgery journey, encompassing your initial consultation, preoperative planning, and postoperative care.

Preoperative Measurement Appointment for Cataract Surgery

Before your cataract surgery, we want to ensure that every aspect of your procedure is meticulously planned to deliver the best possible visual outcome. Our preoperative measurement appointment is a crucial step in this process.

What to Expect:

During your preoperative measurement appointment, our team of skilled ophthalmologists and technicians will conduct a series of specialized tests and evaluations. These tests provide essential information about your eye's condition and characteristics, allowing us to tailor your cataract surgery to your unique needs.

Comprehensive Testing Includes:

• Corneal Topography: This test maps the surface of your cornea, providing insights into its shape and any irregularities. Corneal topography helps us determine the appropriate intraocular lens (IOL) and surgical approach.

• Lenstar: Lenstar is a state-of-the-art optical biometer that measures various parameters of your eye, such as the length, curvature, and anterior chamber depth. This information is vital for IOL calculation.

• Immersion A-scan: This specialized ultrasound test measures the axial length of your eye with high precision. Accurate axial length measurements are crucial for selecting the right IOL power.

• Endothelial Cell Count: We assess the health and density of the endothelial cells in your cornea. This information helps us evaluate the suitability of certain IOL options and ensure the safety of your surgery.
  
  

Benefits of the Preoperative Measurement Appointment:

• Personalized Treatment: The data gathered during these tests enable us to customize your cataract surgery to your individual eye characteristics, maximizing the chances of achieving your desired visual outcomes.

• IOL Options Discussion: Following the measurements, you will have an opportunity to discuss IOL options with your ophthalmologist. This includes standard mono-focal lenses and advanced options like toric or multifocal lenses.

• Surgical Instruction Folder: You will receive a comprehensive surgical instruction folder containing all the necessary forms and information required for your surgery. This includes clearances, preoperative eye drops, and detailed instructions to ensure a smooth and successful procedure.

Before undergoing cataract surgery, our experienced ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough eye examination to evaluate your overall eye health, determine your candidacy for the procedure, and identify any potential risk factors. Here's what to expect during your visit:
​​​​​​​

1. Initial Preparations: Upon your arrival, one of our skilled technicians will assist you in preparing for your consultation with the doctor. To ensure a smooth process, we kindly request that you bring an updated list of your medical information, which should include:

• Updated Medical History: It is crucial that we have a comprehensive understanding of your medical history, including any prior surgeries. Please provide information on conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, previous eye surgeries (such as Lasik or retinal detachment surgery), the presence of a pacemaker/defibrillator, and any orthopedic conditions or surgeries that might affect your positioning during the cataract surgery (e.g., back or neck issues).

• Updated Medication List: To ensure your safety and the success of the surgery, we need an up-to-date list of your current medications. Certain medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements can impact the surgical process, so please provide detailed information about what you are currently taking. Be sure to include medications like anticoagulants (e.g., Coumadin, Plavix, Eliquis), prostate medications (e.g., Flomax, tamsulosin), and aspirin (both 81mg and 325mg).

• Allergies: Full disclosure of allergies is essential, especially those related to medications and latex. Please inform us of any allergies, including latex, anesthesia, and sulfa.
  ​​​​​​​

2. Pre-Diagnostic Tests: After reviewing your medical history, our technician will conduct a series of pre-diagnostic tests that provide vital information for discussing cataract surgery. Some of these tests may have been performed previously, but they might need to be repeated if conducted by an external doctor or if it has been three months since the last testing. These tests include:

• Visual Acuity Check: Assessing your visual acuity helps us understand your current vision status.

• Refraction: This test determines the degree of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism in your eyes prior to surgery.

• Dilation: Dilation allows our doctor to thoroughly evaluate the extent of your cataract and examine your retina for any underlying medical issues or concerns that may be obscured by the cataract.

• Photography: Photos and scans of the back of your eye will be taken to assess any increased risk factors, such as macular degeneration or glaucoma.

Ensuring that we have the most accurate and up-to-date information is vital for a successful cataract consultation and surgery. Your cooperation in providing these details will contribute to the overall success of your cataract treatment. We look forward to assisting you on your journey to a clearer vision.

Surgery Locations:

At The CECO, we understand the importance of providing you with choices when it comes to your cataract surgery. We offer cataract surgery services at two locations based on your specific needs and preferences.

Our Melville Surgery Center serves as our main surgical center for cataract surgery. Located in Melville, New York, this center is equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by experienced professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional care.

Key Features - Melville Surgery Center:

• State-of-the-Art Facility: Our Melville center boasts a state-of-the-art surgical facility equipped with the latest technology to ensure the highest level of precision and safety during your cataract surgery.

• Experienced Team: Our team of skilled ophthalmologists, surgeons, and support staff is committed to providing you with the best possible experience and outcomes.

• Convenient Location: The Melville Surgery Center is centrally located, making it easily accessible to patients in Melville and the surrounding areas.

For more information on The Melville Surgery Center, click here: https://melvillesurgerycenter.com/

Our Island Eye Surgical Center, located in Westbury, New York, specializes in laser-assisted cataract surgery. This center is designed to offer a comfortable and patient-centric experience, particularly for those seeking the advanced benefits of laser technology.

Key Features - Island Eye Surgicenter

• Laser-Assisted Surgery: Island Eye Surgicenter is where we perform laser-assisted cataract surgery. This advanced technology provides additional precision and customization options for your cataract procedure.

• Comprehensive Care: The center is fully equipped to handle all aspects of your cataract surgery,

For more information on Island Eye Surgicenter, click here: https://www.islandeye.net/
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Choosing the Right Location:

The choice of location for your cataract surgery may depend on your specific needs and the type of cataract surgery you require. Our team will work closely with you to determine the most suitable location for your procedure.

Meet our Surgeons