If you’re wondering what to ask in a LASIK consultation, you’ve come to the right place. At Eye Center Of Texas, we’ve performed over 75,000 successful LASIK surgeries. And as one of the top providers of LASIK in Texas, we have created a list of the top 4 questions to ask during your initial LASIK consultation. 

Take a look at those questions below, and please call us if you have any further questions about LASIK in Houston! 

What is a LASIK consultation? 

Before jumping right into what to ask in a LASIK consultation, let’s do a quick review of what a LASIK consultation actually is. During the consultation, you will meet with a doctor, discuss your goals for LASIK, discuss any eye health or general health complications you have, ask questions, and review your candidacy in general. 

If you’re not sure what to do before a LASIK consultation, that’s OK. Just bring any records regarding your eye health if you have them and prepare a list of questions that are important to you. Don’t be afraid to have tough questions for your LASIK doctor. Good LASIK doctors will be prepared to answer them and to walk you through the process so that you can make a LASIK decision that is best for you.  

1. What are the risks of LASIK?

Many people are wary of eye surgery, so we have gone ahead and put this question as #1 for what to ask in a LASIK consultation to get it out of the way. Fortunately, LASIK is a very common surgery and complications are extremely rare. 

In fact, when it comes to the question of LASIK vs. contacts, LASIK is almost always the safer choice. Under 1% of LASIK patients suffer from complications, as opposed to 5% of contact users. On top of this, LASIK is a fix-it-and-forget-it solution. 

The use of contacts, on the other hand, comes with many issues — dirt, overwearing, outdated prescriptions — all of which you’ll likely encounter on a regular basis, and all of which can lead to more serious complications. 

Meanwhile, infection during LASIK recovery is the most common complications associated with LASIK, although it is rare. Compared to contact use, however, where potential infection is a daily issue, LASIK is ultimately a much safe solution. 

If you’re concerned at all about the risks of LASIK, make sure to bring this question up to your doctor during your LASIK consultation. We know that safety is the number one concern when it comes to what to ask during a LASIK consultation, and will be able to explain what risks may more closely align with your individual eye and health situation.

FAQ: Does the corneal flap heal after LASIK? Yes. Get more answers by clicking the link.

FAQ: Do I need to worry about blinking during LASIK? No. Your eye will be held open and numbed, so you do not need to be concerned about blinking. 

2. Am I a good LASIK candidate?

There are certain situations that could disqualify you for LASIK surgery or could make approval a longer process. At Eye Center of Texas, we begin determining your candidacy for LASIK during your initial LASIK consultation. 

It’s recommended that your prescription be stable for at least 12 months pre-LASIK surgery. There are also certain medical conditions that make LASIK not ideal. However, some conditions that were once considered a no-go for LASIK are now considered safe. 

For example, diabetes and LASIK were once thought of as a poor match, but it has now become more acceptable to undergo LASIK surgery even with diabetes. Ultimately, your candidacy boils down to your individual situation and your control (or lack of control) over any pre-existing medical conditions.

No matter what, the important thing to remember is that you shouldn’t automatically rule out LASIK if you have any pre-existing conditions. Ask your doctor whether or not you are a good candidate, and if you aren’t, determine if there is a path towards candidacy available for you.

Want to get a head start on determining whether you’re a good LASIK candidate? Check out our articles: Is My Vision too Bad for LASIK? And What can LASIK surgery correct?

3. How long do the results of LASIK last?

If you’re willing to undergo surgery, then odds are you want long-lasting results. With LASIK surgery, that’s exactly what you’ll get.

LASIK surgery permanently alters the shape of your cornea, and there is no “wearing off.” If you do suffer from any vision loss in the future, it will be due to the overall health of your eye and will not have anything to do with your LASIK surgery.

However, if your vision does gradually get worse, you can undergo LASIK surgery again. How many times you can have LASIK surgery is dependent on the thickness of your cornea, your eye health, and your overall health. 

Your doctor can help you determine candidacy if you find yourself in need of an additional LASIK surgery. And during your LASIK consultation, your eye doctor can provide you with estimated results based on your individual eye situation. 

4. What is the recovery process like?

The LASIK recovery process differs from person to person. While some patients can see clearly without contacts or glasses the day of their operations, others may not see the full benefits of LASIK for a few weeks. 

Regardless, your eyes will be healing for some time after the surgery, and there are a handful of situations that you’ll want to avoid while you’re in recovery. 

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the most common situations you’ll want to avoid post-LASIK surgery:

• Up to 48 hours after surgery: flying, going outside without sunglasses, driving, sleeping without eye patches, washing your face
• Up to 1 week after surgery: exercise, makeup
• Up to 1 month after surgery: contact lenses, sports
• Up to 5 weeks after surgery: swimming

Every patient’s eyes are unique, and your doctor can guide you on what makes the most sense for you and your recovery process. They can answer recovery questions such as What eye drops should I use after LASIK?, Can You watch TV after LASIK?, and more. Make sure that you attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor, so you can discuss your individual situation.

Another thing you’ll want to discuss with your doctor during your LASIK consultation is how to prepare for the recovery process before surgery. For example, you will need someone to drive you home after surgery, and you can give your partner tips for how to care for someone during LASIK recovery. It’s the little things like this that your doctor can cover with you during your LASIK consultation, so you can start making preparations as soon as possible.

Want to know more about the recovery process? Check out our LASIK recovery timeline.

Get ready to ask some LASIK questions!

Now that you know what to ask in a LASIK consultation, it’s time to take the next step and schedule your LASIK consultation. Eye Center of Texas is Houston’s go-to source on all things LASIK. We can help you answer the question, “Am I a LASIK candidate?”, walk you through common LASIK FAQs, and provide you with information on alternative solutions.

Give us a call today at 713-395-1515 and let’s get started on your journey to better vision. 

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• Common Signs of Macular Degeneration
• Simultaneous Treatment for Glaucoma & Cataracts
• How Does Cataract Surgery Work? 
• What is the Cataract Surgery Success Rate
• How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery

If you think you’re suffering from a detached retina, it’s important to seek out professional help so you can start the retina surgery recovery process as soon as possible. With retina tears, you may notice blurry vision, floaters, or flashes at first, and it may just seem like your vision is getting worse. But if a detachment is left untreated, you could end up with permanent vision loss.

Treatment options for a detached retina

Before we cover retina surgery recovery tips, let’s go over the different types of treatment options for a detached retina.

Cryopexy or laser surgery

With this particular retina detachment treatment option, a doctor uses a probe or laser to seal any retina tears. This option can be done in-office in 30 minutes or less. Your eye will be numbed prior to the procedure, and you should feel little-to-no discomfort throughout the entire process. 

Pneumatic retinopexy

Pneumatic retinopexy involves laser or cryotherapy, a gas bubble, and the removal of fluid. The purpose of the gas bubble is to push the retina back; however, the bubble will remain in your eye post-surgery. Over the next few days, it is important that you refrain from exertion and that you keep your head in the recommended position. The bubble will gradually disappear.

Scleral buckle

This treatment option is for more severe cases and requires the use of general anesthesia. Keep in mind, however, recovery time is still within the 2-4 week timeline. With this procedure, a band will be placed around your sclera and remain there permanently. Cryotherapy or a laser will also be used to patch up any tears.

Vitrectomy

Vitrectomy is for more serious retinal detachments. With this treatment option, the removal of vitreous gel is required. After removal occurs, a combination of a gas bubble and cryotherapy or laser is used. You can be numbed prior to the procedure, or you can opt for general anesthesia. 

Retina surgery recovery tips

Again, retina surgery recovery tips vary depending on the severity of your retina detachment, as well as the treatment option you and your doctor decide to undergo. Your surgical counselor will review your recovery tips with you and let you know what suggestions should work best for your time post-op. Here are some general tips to guide you during your recovery process.

• Avoid intense or vigorous activities. Give your eyeball the chance to heal before you start jostling it around again. And remember, these activities can expand to include light exercising and even lifting heavy items.
• Take some time off work. How long does it take to recover from retina surgery? Typically two to four weeks. For that reason, we recommend asking between two to four weeks off of work.
• Avoid driving. Again, this time will vary, and it could only be a day or two. But, this really depends on how your vision is improving and whether or not your doctor recommends it.
  
• Take any medications and eye drops as prescribed. It is likely that you will be required to take eye drops for at least a month after your procedure. If you have any lingering pain or discomfort, make sure you speak with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter pain meds.
• Take precautions when showering or washing your face. Avoid getting any liquids near your eye and avoid swimming.
• Wear eye protection when you’re outside to protect your eyes from the sun. 
• Pay careful attention to how you sleep and hold your head. This is especially true if there was a gas bubble placed in your eye, Your doctor will help you understand how to sleep after retinal detachment surgery. Because of the gas bubble, you’ll also want to avoid airplanes.
• Schedule and attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor. Make sure you maintain open communication and let them know if you’re experiencing anything uncomfortable during your recovery process.

When to contact a doctor during the retina surgery recovery process

While most retina surgery recovery processes go smoothly, there are some situations that could indicate a potential problem. Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following issues during your retina surgery recovery process:

• Eye pain that is getting worse
• Decrease in vision
• Swelling
• Discharge
• Redness
• Fever
• Any sudden changes in your overall health

Eye Center of Texas is here for you before, during, and after your retina surgery recovery

At Eye Center of Texas, we have experience helping the people of Houston successfully treat and recover from a wide variety of eye health issues and diseases, including retinal tears and detachment. 

From LASIK surgery to retina detachment, we are one of Houston’s leading ophthalmological practices. We are here to answer any questions you may have about vision recovery after retinal detachment surgery, what to expect after retinal tear surgery in general, and more. 

Give us a call today at 713-797-1010 or fill out our online form to request an appointment with our team.

LASIK surgery is a common and safe procedure for healthy patients. However, if you have a chronic illness like diabetes which can affect your eye health, it’s natural to wonder whether you will qualify LASIK. That’s why, “Can diabetics get LASIK?” is a recurring question among our patients. 

In the past, it was recommended that diabetics not undergo LASIK surgery. However, as the industry has gathered more data and perfected the procedure as a whole, diabetes no longer immediately disqualifies you from LASIK surgery. 

Instead, candidacy depends on the individual’s current control of their diabetes and whether or not they have any related issues that can complicate surgery or the recovery process.

While your particular situation will vary, let’s take a quick look at how diabetes affects your eyes and what might allow a diabetic to qualify for LASIK.

Relative and absolute contraindications for LASIK & diabetes

When it comes to LASIK, diabetes may be considered either relative contraindication or an absolute contraindication. 

Relative contraindication

When LASIK is considered a relative contraindication for a diabetic, it means that LASIK can be performed but caution must be used. In this situation, an individual will have controlled blood sugar and no additional complications that could make surgery not a viable option. The benefits of the surgery outweigh any potential risk. 

Absolute contraindication 

When LASIK is considered an absolute contraindication for a diabetic, it means that LASIK cannot be performed. In this situation, an individual will have an uncontrolled form of diabetes and/or will have additional complications that make surgery not possible.The benefits of the surgery do not outweigh the potential risk and it’s unclear whether or not the procedure will provide lasting benefits. 

What disqualifies a diabetic from LASIK? 

Lasting effects

LASIK requires a doctor to change the shape of your cornea. However, with uncontrolled diabetes, your vision may change quite often. Because of this, your doctor may not be successful in reshaping your cornea in a way that will provide a positive and lasting effect on your vision. 

Possibility for infection

LASIK involves the removal of tissue from the cornea. For diabetics, this tissue removal could lead to additional LASIK diabetes complications such as scarring, leaking fluid, and more.

Difficult recovery

Just as it’s not good to perform eye surgery with high blood sugar, elevated blood sugar levels can also negatively affect the recovery time of any surgery. So whether it’s LASIK or another procedure, a doctor may decide not to perform the surgery based on the idea that you may have a more difficult or longer recovery.

Related Content: Learn more about the LASIK recovery process and LASIK after-care tips.

Diabetic retinopathy

Diabetes can lead to vision problems like fluctuating vision loss and eye health issues such as diabetic retinopathy. LASIK cannot fix this issue. If your vision loss stems from diabetic retinopathy, you won’t be a candidate for LASIK surgery.

Think you might be suffering from diabetic retinopathy? Check out our article on the four stages of diabetic retinopathy to learn more.

How to qualify for LASIK with diabetes

To find out if you qualify for LASIK in Houston, here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. 1. Manage your diabetes: LASIK is not an option for individuals with uncontrolled diabetes. You should strive to achieve optimal eye and physical health to ensure you can be a candidate for LASIK.
   2. Review your history with your doctor: Your doctor will want to review your history of diabetes with you in detail and determine if you are at risk of any future complications. Your eye doctor will likely need to have a discussion with your primary physician.
   3. Schedule a full examination: Your doctor will also need to examine your eyes and get a full workup of your eye health. He or she will need to determine if you have any eye issues that would eliminate you as a candidate for LASIK.

Can Diabetics get LASIK? Discuss the possibility with a trusted ophthalmologist 

If your diabetes is well-managed and you are curious about LASIK surgery, we encourage you to consult a trusted ophthalmologist at Eye Center of Texas about your options. 

The trained ophthalmologists at Eye Center of Texas can help spot and treat eye issues, including diabetic retinopathy, diabetes-related fast-growing cataracts, macular degeneration, cataracts, and more. As home to some of the best LASIK in the country, over 275 doctors in Houston refer their patients to Eye Center of Texas.

Call Eye Center of Texas at 713-395-1515 or contact us online today to get started.

How do you know if you have glaucoma? This question might be one you begin asking if, suddenly, you find your vision getting worse. First things first: don’t panic, don’t jump to conclusions, and make an appointment with your ophthalmologist. There are many reasons why your vision could suddenly take a dive, and they can help pinpoint exactly what is causing your vision to degrade. 

However, all of that said, sudden vision loss can be a symptom of glaucoma. 

Glaucoma is an irreversible eye disease that can dramatically affect the optic nerve. Glaucoma causes are still being studied, but the most frequently-cited cause is high pressure in the eye causing damage to the optic nerves. Eventually, glaucoma can lead to vision loss and, in rare cases, blindness.  

Since it can be difficult to spot early symptoms of glaucoma, it’s important to know the basics of the disease: what the early warning signs of glaucoma are, how to prevent and/or slow the progress of glaucoma, and your treatment options. 

How do you know if you have glaucoma? The first signs

Each type of glaucoma has some symptoms that are particular to it. There are four types of glaucoma, with two types in particular being more prominent. So if you’re wondering, “What is the first sign of glaucoma?” or even “What are the symptoms of high eye pressure?” then you need to understand the differences between open-angle glaucoma and acute angle-closure glaucoma.

The basics of open-angle glaucoma

With open-angle glaucoma, symptoms only really pop up once you’ve already experienced substantial vision loss. Because of these circumstances, it is very hard to detect this form of glaucoma early on without an experienced doctor and regular eye exams. You might experience symptoms such as blank spots or tunnel vision, but other than that, symptoms may not surface until the disease is already advanced.

The basics of acute angle-closure glaucoma

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is not as common as open-angle glaucoma, but the symptoms are more noticeable. However, once symptoms do show up, you can expect damage to happen quickly, and you will need to see a doctor as soon as possible. Symptoms can include halo lights, eye or head pain, nausea, and blurry vision.

Prevention and treatment of glaucoma

It can be difficult to spot glaucoma on your own, especially since glaucoma can be “symptomless” before it causes permanent damage. This is why regular eye exams are not only important for the overall health of your eye but one of the primary ways to prevent and begin early treatment of glaucoma. Remember — early treatment is your best defense against glaucoma.

With regular eye exams, your doctor can also provide you with custom tips based on your health history and help you understand whether or not you’re more at risk of developing glaucoma. These tips should give you a better chance of avoiding glaucoma altogether. 

On top of this, your doctor can conduct tests during your eye exams that can detect the disease before you experience any substantial vision loss. If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, your doctor can then provide you with a variety of glaucoma treatment options, including medication and options for glaucoma surgery, including the i-Stent surgery for glaucoma for patients who also have cataracts. 

General tips to help you avoid or slow down the progression of glaucoma

• Regular eye exams: Not to sound like a broken record — but whatever you do, don’t forget to treat your eyes to regular exams! If you’re under the age of 30, you can likely go every 2-4 years without an exam (if you’re experiencing no issues). But as you age, you’ll need to reduce the amount of time between each exam.

• Treat your body right: Eating right, exercising daily, and not smoking can help you steer clear (or at least slow down the progression) of glaucoma. This will promote blood flow and help lower your intraocular pressure (IOP), which is critical in the fight against glaucoma.

• Protect those eyes: While it may seem like common sense, protecting your eyes isn’t something most people think about on a regular basis. It’s a lot like applying sunscreen — we know we should, but do we really? Your eyes are no different than your skin. Protect them from the sun by wearing sunglasses and avoid unnecessary risks, like looking directly at the sun.

FAQ: How long does it take to go blind from glaucoma? 

With a diagnosis of glaucoma, some patients are quick to worry about going blind. Fortunately, glaucoma tends to progress slowly and, so long as you are making your regular eye doctor appointments, you will likely catch the disease in enough time to treat it. While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatment can frequently reduce the rate of progression such that patients will be able to read and see well all the way into their old age.

Without treatment, glaucoma will likely advance more quickly. The rate of progression will depend highly on the patient’s eye health and the type of glaucoma they’re experiencing. It is estimated that untreated glaucoma may cause blindness 10-20 years after onset, but these numbers still vary widely. 

Prevent and treat glaucoma at Eye Center of Texas 

In short, the best piece of advice we can offer to patients wondering, “How do you know if you have glaucoma?” is to visit your ophthalmologist.

At Eye Center of Texas, we want to keep Houstonians seeing clearly for many years to come. Our doctors have performed thousands of successful eye surgeries, including glaucoma and iStent eye surgery. Concerned that you may have glaucoma? Simply experiencing more vision loss than normal? Give us a call at 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas: 

• The Cataract Surgery Success Rate
• How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery
• Do’s and Don’ts of Cataract Surgery Recovery Time
• Can You Wait too Long to Have Cataract Surgery? 
• ICL vs. LASIK

Since there is currently no cure for the disease, catching the signs of macular degeneration can be critical for the future of your vision. If you watch for the early signs of macular degeneration, it might be possible to slow down the progression of this particular eye disease. 

Your susceptibility to this disease grows as you age, and it is becoming increasingly common for those over the age of 70 to be diagnosed with some degree of macular degeneration. In fact, as far as common vision problems go, macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of vision loss in older adults.

Before we cover the early signs of macular degeneration, we will quickly review the various causes and types of this eye disease. We also cover this information more in-depth in our article, What is Macular Degeneration? If you are already familiar with this information, simply skip directly to the early signs of macular degeneration. 

What is the main cause of macular degeneration?

The exact cause of macular degeneration is unknown. However, as mentioned previously, your susceptibility to macular degeneration increases as you age, so in some sense, aging is considered a main cause of the disease. 

There are other factors that can make you even more susceptible. These factors can include:

• Lifestyle habits such as smoking and lack of exercise
• Gender, as women may be more at risk
• Family genes. 

If you fall under any of these categories, then you will want to monitor for the signs of macular degeneration regularly. 

The cause of the physical symptoms of macular degeneration is the wearing down of the central part of your retina. The retina is made of tissue at the back of your eye and is composed of light-sensitive cells (called rods and cones). When these become worn down you begin to experience vision loss, especially central vision loss.  

What are the different types of macular degeneration?

There are two types of macular degeneration: dry macular generation (non-neovascular) and wet macular degeneration (neovascular).

What you should know about dry macular degeneration:

• The most common type of macular degeneration
• Not as serious as wet macular degeneration
• Minimal vision loss typically experienced
• Development of drusen (small yellow or white spots on the retina) upon accumulation of waste products

What you should know about wet macular degeneration:

• The more serious (albeit the less common) type of macular degeneration
• Leads to the formation of new blood vessels causing fluids or blood to leak into the retina
• Vision might appear wavy or distorted

FAQ: Are floaters a symptom of macular degeneration? 

Typically, no. The spots in your vision created by macular degeneration can be confused with floaters but, with the exception of late-stage wet macular degeneration, macular degeneration itself rarely causes floaters. 

What are the common signs of macular degeneration?

With macular degeneration, your vision will generally gradually become less clear and more blurry. Day-to-day life and activities like driving, using your smartphone, reading, and even recognizing people may feel difficult or problematic. Here, we break down the common signs of macular degeneration a little further. 

Difficulty adapting to changing light

If you have trouble with lighting changes, this may be a sign of macular degeneration. With this particular sign, you may have issues with levels of light suddenly changing. For example, if you go from a dark room to a light room (or vice versa), your eyes might struggle to adapt. You may also have issues performing simple tasks without a high level of light present.

Issues with depth, color, and texture perception

This particular sign of macular degeneration can affect you in a variety of ways — all of which can be somewhat dangerous given the situation. In this case, you may have trouble judging how close or far away something is. You may also have trouble judging similar colors or textures. In both cases, you can be more susceptible to falling or tripping.

Spotted vision

Macular degeneration can also come with dark spotting in your line of vision. This might present itself as just a blurry spot or it could be a dark or shadow-like blurry spot.

Overall blurring

While you may have a blurry spot in your line of vision, you could just have altogether blurrier vision. This could mean difficulty trying to recognize faces, reading books or labels, or using digital devices.

Macular degeneration treatment

Once macular degeneration sets in, you can’t get rid of it; there is no cure. So if you’re over the age of 50 and notice that your eyesight is getting worse or other signs of macular degeneration, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with a retina specialist in Houston. Spot it early, and you can avoid additional vision loss.

Macular degeneration treatments for helping you to reduce further damage and, in the case of wet macular degeneration, manage side effects.

Treatment options for dry macular degeneration:

• Nutritional supplements
• Sunglasses (eye protection)
• Healthy lifestyle choices
• Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol

Treatment options for wet macular degeneration:

• Injections directly into the eye
• Laser procedures
• Healthy lifestyle choices

Many of these treatments boil down to simply doing right by your body. Keep in mind, however, that many of these treatments can help prevent macular degeneration as well.

Detect signs of macular degeneration early at  Eye Center of Texas

Eye Center of Texas is home to some of the most skilled Houston ophthalmologists. We have experience detecting and treating macular degeneration, and we help hundreds of Texans protect and correct their vision every year. 

If you think you’re experiencing signs of macular degeneration or if you’d like more information on this common eye disease, schedule an appointment today or give us a call at 713-797-1010.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas

• Treatment for Glaucoma & Cataracts
• How Does Cataract Surgery Work? 
• The Cataract Surgery Success Rate
• How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery
• Cataract Surgery Recovery Time

Many people who are planning to have cataract surgery ask us questions such as, “How long do cataract lenses last?” or, “ What is the life of a cataract lens?” and, “Are cataract lenses permanent or will you have to undergo cataract surgery multiple times?” 

Let’s take a few moments to answer the most common questions regarding the permanence of cataract lenses.

Cataracts and cataract surgery: A brief review

A cataract is a naturally occurring vision problem that includes symptoms such as light sensitivity, double vision, and more. Check out the cataract stages in pictures for more information. 

Cataract surgery is an effective way to correct this vision problem and rid yourself of those unwanted symptoms. The procedure is both fast and typically pain-free. There are also different types of lenses you can select (such as multifocal cataract lenses). Since cataract surgery involves the replacement of your natural lens, it’s natural to wonder “How long do cataract lenses last?”   

How long do cataract lenses last, and does cataract surgery last a lifetime? 

A cataract lens will last a lifetime, and the vast majority of patients do not experience any complications with their lenses after cataract surgery. In fact, the most common post-cataract surgery issue has nothing to do with your lens in particular. 

Posterior capsule opacification

PCO, also known as posterior capsule opacification (commonly referred to as an “after-cataract” or a “secondary cataract”). A PCO is technically not a true cataract, although it can easily be confused for one.

With an after-cataract, the capsule that holds your lens becomes cloudy. The actual lens is fine. This particular issue is the most common cataract surgery complication and develops due to various extenuating circumstances such as steroid use, diabetes, or certain lifestyle habits. 

PCO is not a serious complication, but to avoid unnecessary damage, it should not go untreated. Luckily, PCO can be rectified with a simple laser procedure. Your cataract lens will remain as-is during the procedure.

Can cataracts grow back?

Thankfully, once you undergo cataract surgery, your cataract will not grow back. The cataract is fully removed and a cataract lens is put in its place, which means there are no organic proteins to break down and cause blurry vision on your artificial lens. 

Of course, following suggestions for how to prevent cataracts can still be beneficial for your eye health even after cataract surgery.

Here are a few quick tips on how to prevent future damage to your eyes:

• Limit sun exposure: UV light can damage your conjunctiva. Shield your eyes from the sun by regularly wearing sunglasses. 
• Improve your diet: Do your best to improve your day-to-day diet, so you can avoid health issues (like diabetes) that are known to negatively impact your vision.
• Avoid or stop smoking: Smoking can lead to vision problems such as macular degeneration.
• See your eye doctor regularly: Stay up-to-date on eye checkups. This will allow you and your doctor to detect and treat issues before they become permanent problems.

What will my vision be like after cataract surgery?

After cataract surgery, you can expect your vision to clear up gradually. Blurry vision is normal during the first few hours to the first few days post-surgery. Three to six weeks after surgery, your vision should be clearer, noticeably improved, and fully stabilized. This timeframe will depend on your particular cataract and your chosen cataract lens.

If you do notice negative changes in your vision or if your post-surgery symptoms are not clearing up within the given timeframe, make sure to contact your doctor. 

Can vision change after cataract surgery?

Unless you have a new issue that presents itself (like the after-cataract mentioned earlier or a separate eye disease), you should not have any cataract-related vision deterioration. In fact, you should notice many improvements, such as the ability to drive better at night and to complete everyday tasks with more ease. Keep in mind, however, that cataract surgery may not eliminate your need for glasses and cannot prevent your eyesight from changing in other ways.

Get your cataract surgery questions answered by Eye Center of Texas

So, how long do cataract lenses last? Typically, they last you a lifetime! Wondering when is the right time to have cataract surgery? Debating the cataract surgery cost?  Eye Center of Texas can help. 

Our surgeons have performed over 80,000 successful cataract surgeries in Houston. We can walk you through the cataract surgery process, answer your most pressing questions, and set up your initial consultation with our skilled team. 

Better vision starts with Eye Center of Texas. Give us a call at 713-797-1010 or contact us online today to get started on your cataract surgery journey. 

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas: 

• Treatment for Glaucoma & Cataracts
• How Does Cataract Surgery Work? 
• The Cataract Surgery Success Rate
• How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery
• Cataract Surgery Recovery Time

“Can you watch TV after LASIK?” is a question almost every LASIK patient asks us. That’s because, after LASIK surgery, you’re supposed to rest and keep activity to a minimum. In the age of Netflix binging, resting and keeping activity to a minimum often means one thing: watching TV. 

But can you watch TV after LASIK? Unfortunately, it’s not recommended, as are a few other things. If you’re considering LASIK surgery or if you already have surgery scheduled, it’s crucial that you understand the LASIK recovery timeline and that you follow post-surgery guidelines. These guidelines include screen time and a series of simple do’s and don’ts.

Let’s take a few moments to cover the LASIK basics.

Can you watch TV after LASIK? Why it’s not a good idea. 

Can I watch TV after LASIK? Can I play video games? What about my phone — can I use my phone after LASIK? To be blunt, there is a 24-hour no-screen time recommendation after undergoing LASIK surgery. That’s because the television and other similar screens (computers, phones, and tablets) can possibly have a negative impact on your recovery process immediately following surgery. 

For example, looking at screens reduces your blink rate, which in turn can lead to dry eyes. Keeping your eyes lubricated is a key element of recovering from LASIK. Dry eyes and LASIK surgery often go hand-in-hand during the recovery process, so it’s doubly important to limit the potentially negative impacts of screen time on eye health, especially in the first 24 hours after surgery.

While we understand that you’re bored and probably stuck at home after the surgery, it really is important to follow this recommendation. If you’re wondering what to do after LASIK, consider downloading a few podcast episodes or an audiobook when you’re preparing for your surgery. Alternatively, you can catch up on all that sleep you lost while daydreaming about what life will be like without glasses or contacts.

For more ideas, check out our article on how to help care for someone who just had LASIK surgery. 

The risks of skipping the 24-hour no-screen recommendation

Aside from simply feeling eye strain, there are definitely some risks associated with too much screen time post-LASIK. These include but are not limited to:

• Extended recovery time
• Light sensitivity
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headaches

Remember: You will likely experience minor discomfort after surgery no matter what. Contact your doctor if you have any concerns regarding what’s considered normal after LASIK surgery.

Can you read after LASIK? 

After asking us “Can you watch TV after LASIK?” we sometimes get the follow-up question, “Can you read after LASIK? Whether you’re asking about reading an analog book or a book on your tablet, the answer for both activities is, unfortunately, still no. Reading a paper book can also reduce your blinking rate. As mentioned before, though, audiobooks are just fine!  

Other activities to avoid after LASIK surgery

Besides watching too much TV, there are a handful of other activities you should avoid after LASIK surgery. Here are a few of the heavy hitters:

• Do not drive: Many people wonder, “How long after LASIK can I drive?” You will need someone to drive you home after the surgery. In fact, Eye Center of Texas’s policy is that you have someone you know pick you up and drive you home after your surgery. (This does not include ride shares!) After that, we recommend that patients avoid driving for the first 24-48 hours after surgery. Of course, the recovery process can vary from patient to patient. It’s important to get the sign-off from your doctor before you get behind the wheel of a car.
• Go ahead and shower: It’s okay to shower the day after surgery, but please avoid getting any shampoo or other chemicals in your face. This also includes post-shower activities, such as applying facial creams and makeup.
• Stay out of the pool: Swimming after LASIK can be problematic. This is because your eyes will be exposed to harsh chemicals or to various bacteria that can lead to infections. In fact, it’s best to avoid stepping in a pool for at least a month after LASIK.
• Protect your eyes: There are many daily activities that can cause issues with post-LASIK eyes. Use common sense and avoid any of these activities that can potentially harm your eyes. This can include anything from sports and exercising to sun exposure and contact lenses. Maintain open communication with your doctor and get all of your questions answered regarding activities that are unsafe post-LASIK.

Post-LASIK tips to remember

Whether or not you manage to get through that 24-hour no-screen recommendation, here are a few tips that can help you get through LASIK recovery.

• Adopt the 20-20-20 Rule: If you choose to ignore the plethora of advice telling you NOT to watch TV and to sit through an episode of your latest Netflix obsession anyway, at least follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. These breaks will help you limit eye strain and dry, red eyes.
• Lubricate, Lubricate, Lubricate: You can also use eye drops for dry eyes after LASIK. Eye Center of Texas will provide you with a set of prescription eye drops for immediately post-op. After that time, it is recommended that you use preservative-free eye drops and to limit your usage to 4 times a day.
  

• Pay Attention: If your eyes feel strained or uncomfortable at any part during the day, take notice and make a change. Focus on something else, close your eyes for a few minutes, or pop in a few eye drops. And no matter what… don’t forget to blink regularly.

A seamless recovery starts with Eye Center of Texas

So, can you watch TV after LASIK? No, not for at least 24 hours. The good news? This advice comes from a company that has years of experience helping their patients recover and thrive after LASIK eye surgery.

Eye Center of Texas has performed over 75,000 successful LASIK eye surgeries, and we are dedicated to providing all of our patients with a seamless recovery. From surgery preparation to post-surgery treatment, our goal is to make sure all of our patients have the right tools to follow all LASIK best practices. 

If you have more questions regarding activities considered safe post-LASIK or if you’re considering LASIK surgery, we’re here for you. Give us a call at 713-395-1515 or contact us online to set up a LASIK consultation today.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• The Cataract Surgery Success Rate
• How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery
• Do’s and Don’ts of Cataract Surgery Recovery Time
• Can You Wait too Long to Have Cataract Surgery? 
• ICL vs. LASIK

Glaucoma and cataracts are common eye conditions in older adults, though they can technically occur at any age. If you’re living with vision complications from having both glaucoma and cataracts, Dr. Mayo and the Eye Center of Texas provide an effective, FDA-approved treatment option that can protect against vision loss. The device, called i-Stent, can be inserted during cataract surgery to lower and control pressure in the eye caused by glaucoma. 

Learn more about the i-Stent procedure for providing relief from both glaucoma and cataracts. 

Can you have glaucoma and cataracts?

It is possible to have both glaucoma and cataracts. The conditions are not related, but they tend to occur in people over the age of 60. Let’s review the basics of glaucoma and cataracts

Cataracts

Cataracts occur as the eye’s lens grows cloudy and inflexible, dulling or blurring vision over time in most cases. Common cataract symptoms typically include:

• Cloudy, blurred, or dim vision
• Sensitivity to light and glare
• Poor night vision or trouble driving at night
• Dull or less vibrant colors
• Double vision in one eye
• Glasses or contacts are no longer helping

If you’re curious about what causes cataracts, the cost of cataract surgery, or whether you can have cataract surgery in both eyes at once, Eye Center of Texas offers a series of helpful guides:

• What Causes Cataracts?
• Cataract Surgery – Laser vs. Traditional
• Can You Wait Too Long to Have Cataract Surgery?
• Having Cataract Surgery in Both Eyes at Once
• Cataract Surgery Cost: Understanding Insurance & More

Glaucoma 

Glaucoma refers to a group of conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve, often with abnormally high pressure in the eye. The most common type of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, may result in tunnel vision or blind spots. 

Glaucoma can affect anyone, but some of the most prevalent risk factors include:

• Being age 60 or older
• African American heritage
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Extreme nearsightedness
• Eye trauma
• Long-term steroid treatment
• Family history of glaucoma

Your eye doctor should check for cataracts and glaucoma when you have your annual eye exam, so you can treat them effectively before they advance and prevent damage to the optic nerve. 

Can cataracts cause increased eye pressure?

Cataracts do not cause increased eye pressure. They blur vision by clouding the eye’s lens. Glaucoma, however, occurs when the drainage passage in the eye is blocked or not functioning well, causing a buildup of fluid that raises intraocular pressure. Without treatment, glaucoma can cause damage to the optic nerve over time and cause vision loss both peripherally and centrally — that’s why early diagnosis is key.

Is it safe to have cataract surgery with glaucoma?

While every person’s condition is different, it is generally considered safe to have cataract surgery with glaucoma. However, cataract surgery has been shown to increase eye pressure, so those with glaucoma may wish to have both procedures done at the same time. Fortunately, having glaucoma and cataract surgery at the same time can actually be of great benefit to those who have both conditions—and the i-Stent makes that possible. 

Of the i-Stent procedure, Dr. May of Eye Center of Texas has said, “The FDA-approved i-Stent is great news for people who have both a cataract and glaucoma. When pressure in the eye is out of control, it can increase the risk for permanent vision loss. I consider i-Stent an important advancement in protecting against vision loss for my glaucoma patients.”

The i-Stent procedure for glaucoma and cataracts

The i-Stent procedure combines cataract and glaucoma surgery into a single treatment. The i-Stent itself operates just like a stent that works to prevent a heart attack or stroke, but on a smaller scale. By creating a permanent opening in the blocked trabecular meshwork, it allows the backed-up fluid to drain, diminishing pressure and preventing damage to the optic nerve.

The process is simple: after your cataracts are removed, your eye surgeon will implant the i-Stent—a device that’s 20,000 times smaller than your new cataract lens. You won’t see or feel it afterward. By having cataract and glaucoma surgery at the same time, you’re treating both conditions with less stress to your system and a combined cataract and glaucoma treatment recovery.

Contact Eye Center of Texas to discuss the i-Stent treatment for glaucoma and cataracts today

If you’re suffering from both glaucoma and cataracts, the i-Sent surgery may be able to help. i-Stent surgery recovery is quick, and in most cases requires only anti-inflammatory drops and avoiding strenuous activity for a few days. Many individuals no longer need eye drops to treat their glaucoma once they’ve recovered because the i-Stent is maintaining healthy eye pressure. 

If you’d like to learn more about cataract or glaucoma treatment, schedule an appointment today or call the Eye Center of Texas at 713-797-1010.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• Cataract Surgery Recovery Time
• ICL vs. LASIK Surgery 
• What Causes Dry Eyes at Night? 
• Why is My Vision Getting Worse? 
• How to Know if You Need Reading Glasses

If your vision has gotten blurry or cloudy due to cataracts, you may be wondering, “How does cataract surgery work?” Cataracts are a common condition in older adults that results in the clouding of the eye. Although it may feel like a film has formed over your eye, it’s actually the buildup of proteins preventing light from reaching through to your retina. 

The good news is, cataracts can be surgically removed, and new lenses can be inserted with a short outpatient procedure that’s relatively pain-free. It’s a safe, effective solution that can reduce dependence on glasses. But exactly how does cataract surgery work? Let’s find out. 

Common symptoms of cataracts

Before we dive more deeply into answering the question, “How does cataract surgery work?” it’s important to discuss whether or not you may actually have a cataract. No list of symptoms can replace the evaluation of a doctor, but common symptoms of cataracts can include:  

• Cloudy, blurred, or dim vision
• Sensitivity to light and glare, even during the day
• Poor night vision or trouble driving at night
• Colors seem dull or less vibrant
• Double vision in one eye
• Your glasses or contacts don’t help your vision, despite regular checkups

Just discovered that you have a cataract? Check out our guides to knowing when to have cataract surgery and cataract stages in pictures. 

Cataract surgery lens options

Prior to surgery, you’ll have a choice of artificial lenses. The most commonly chosen lens is the monofocal lens, which can restore near-perfect vision, but only at a single set distance: near, intermediate, or far. The multifocal lens can correct for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and presbyopia, with 80% of patients going glasses-free post-recovery. For those affected by astigmatism, the astigmatism-correcting lens offers clear, sharp distance vision along with reduced dependency on glasses.

How to prepare for cataract surgery 

Depending on where you go for your procedure, your doctor may ask you to use prescription antibiotic eye drops 1-2 days before the procedure. You may also be asked not to eat or drink anything for up to 12 hours before the procedure. 

Your doctor should also ask you about any current medications you are taking to ensure that these medications do not carry the risk of interfering with the procedure. 

Most patients ask for 1-2 days off of work. Some enlist childcare. If you do not plan on having someone to look after you as you recover, you may wish to pre-plan your meals so that you can avoid cooking. 

Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure, but Eye Center of Texas does not allow patients to drive post-op, as the sedative medications used during the procedure can impair driving abilities. All of our patients are required to secure a ride home with a trusted friend or family member, NOT a rideshare.  

How is cataract surgery performed?

There are two main types of cataract surgery performed today — traditional and laser. Both types of cataract surgeries achieve the same basic goal, but their approaches differ. 

In traditional cataract surgery, your surgeon creates an incision in your cornea using a blade, then uses ultrasound waves to break up the cloudy lens. Afterwards, the surgeon then removes those pieces and inserts a clear, artificial lens in its place.

Laser surgery reduces the need for handheld tools such as blades. Your surgeon will use a camera to map the surface of your eye, then a femtosecond laser to break up the cloudy lens and create a precise incision in your cornea. The surgeon will then suction out the cloudy pieces and insert your new artificial lens. The whole process typically takes less than an hour. 

Cataract surgery: laser vs. traditional

When weighing laser cataract surgery vs. traditional, many people wonder whether there is a benefit to pursuing one option over the other. Research points to additional benefits from the laser surgery approach. Laser-assisted surgeries have greater accuracy and precision and are less likely to burn the corneal incision. The surgeons at Eye Center of Texas are some of the leading laser cataract surgeons in the nation! 

Been putting off cataract surgery? Worried you’ve waited too long? Check out our article: “Can You Wait Too Long to Have Cataract Surgery?” 

Are you awake during cataract surgery?

This question and some variation of “How painful is cataract surgery?” are some of the most common that we receive with regard to this procedure. And we understand the concern! Fortunately, the answers to such questions bear good news. 

While patients are typically awake during cataract surgery, they will have received either oral or intravenous sedatives so that they remain calm. It’s actually much safer for the patient to be awake during the procedure. That way, surgeons can communicate with the patient if necessary. Meanwhile, the eye(s) will be numbed so that you will experience no pain. The only sensation patients typically experience during cataract surgery is a feeling of pressure.

Because of the medication, many patients don’t even remember having undergone the procedure. 

What is the recovery time for cataract surgery?

Of course, every person’s recovery timeline looks different, but recovery time for cataract surgery typically runs between 24-48 hours. There are some activities, such as swimming, that you should avoid for longer. (For more information, please see our guide to activities to avoid during cataract surgery recovery time.) 

Most surgery patients return to work in one to three days. Full recovery typically takes around eight weeks. 

Your doctor will schedule a series of follow-up appointments after the procedure: one for 1-2 days post-op, one a week after surgery, and one about a month after the procedure. 

It is normal for patients to experience vision blurriness or mild discomfort, such as itchiness, after cataract surgery but this typically clears up in a few days. Complications are rare, but contact your doctor ASAP if you experience swelling of your eyelids, persistent pain, sudden vision loss, or light flashes. 

Contact Eye Center of Texas to discuss your cataract treatment options

If you’re wondering, “How does cataract surgery work?” you are not alone. In the U.S., more than 24 million people over the age of 40 are affected, and more than three million cataract surgeries are performed in the U.S. every year.

Houston’s leading cataract surgeons have performed more than 80,000 successful surgeries at Eye Center of Texas, helping people of all ages and abilities see clearly again. To learn more about our LenSx Laser cataract surgery or request an appointment, call 713-797-1010 or contact us online today.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• ICL vs. LASIK Surgery 
• What Causes Dry Eyes at Night? 
• Why is My Vision Getting Worse? 
• How to Know if You Need Reading Glasses
• What Can LASIK Surgery Fix? 

The cataract surgery success rate is a common topic brought up by our patients, which is typically followed up with the question, “Is cataract surgery safe?”

You’ll be happy to know that not only is cataract surgery nearly painless with a quick recovery process, but it also has a very high success rate — 97-98% according to recent studies. This is because it is a common surgery that involves very few (if any) possible complications.

Is cataract surgery always successful?

Like we said before, cataract surgery is a common surgery with a high success rate of 98%. However, the longer you wait to have cataract surgery, the more likely it is that you can experience some setbacks. In other words, cataract surgery isn’t always successful … but it usually is.

What can cause cataract surgery to be unsuccessful?

If you’ve been asking yourself “why is my vision getting worse?” untreated cataracts may be to blame. Untreated cataracts become denser over time and can eventually become “hyper-mature.” When this happens, it can be more difficult to remove the cataract (which can ultimately cause issues during the surgery).

So if you’re wondering “Can you wait too long to have cataract surgery?” — the quick answer is yes. As a rule of thumb, just remember that the longer you wait, the more difficult the surgery will become. In other words, it’s best to keep on the lookout for the early signs of cataracts, meet regularly with your eye doctor, and take the necessary preventative precautions.

How long does it take for the eye to heal after cataract surgery?

After a successful cataract surgery, you can expect a relatively painless recovery. Most people only need an average of one to three days off work and can resume the majority of day-to-day activities within the first 48 hours. The complete cataract surgery recovery time can take as long as 8 weeks.

As far as your vision goes, you can expect things to stabilize within 3-6 weeks. Keep in mind, if you receive a Monofocal IOL, you may experience a slightly longer recovery process.

What are the cataract surgery complications?

Post-surgery it is very rare for patients to experience any complications. This is why cataract surgery is considered a very safe and effective procedure. Outside of the initial recovery process, any side effects or issues people experience after cataract surgery are minor.

To top things off, with the introduction of laser-assisted cataract surgery, surgeons are given the tools to be more successful, which ultimately leads to fewer complications during and after the surgery.

One additional point of consideration is whether or not you need cataract surgery done on both eyes. While you can have two rounds of cataract surgery, doing surgery on both eyes at once can present additional complications. For this reason, Eye Center of Texas advises patients with cataracts in both eyes to wait at least a few days between procedures.

Contact Eye Center of Texas to start discussing cataract surgery options

If you’re questioning the success rate of cataract surgery, you can rest assured that cataract surgery is safe, effective, and long-lasting. If you’re experiencing any signs of early cataracts, make an appointment with Eye Center of Texas today, so you can have a successful cataract surgery in the future.

Give us a call at 713-797-1010 or contact us online to request an appointment, discuss cost, and explore your options for achieving better vision safely and successfully.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• ICL vs. LASIK
• Causes of Dry Eyes at Night
• Why Is My Vision Getting Worse? 
• Do I Need Reading Glasses? 
• What Can LASIK Surgery Correct?