Struggling to read the wine list at WineSellar & Brasserie, or missing details at the San Diego Symphony? If you’ve scheduled your cataract surgery and are ready to reclaim your clear vision, cataract surgery prep is essential for the best results. Dr. Lee Katzman, who performs more cataract surgeries than any other provider in San Diego County, has developed a systematic approach that eliminates uncertainty from the preparation process. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by pre-surgery requirements, his easy-to-follow pre-surgery tips below will have you feeling confident about procedure day.
What Should I Focus on for My Cataract Surgery Prep?
Your cataract surgery prep should focus on five areas: optimizing your health, understanding surgery day logistics, preparing your recovery environment, arranging support, and knowing when to seek guidance. Addressing these areas in the weeks before your surgery will help you avoid delays, reduce complications, and position yourself for the clearest vision results.
1. How Should I Prep My Health and Medications Before Surgery?
Your body’s readiness on surgery day influences your surgical experience and how quickly you get back to normal activities. The key areas that can impact you the most include eye health, chronic medical conditions, and medication timing. Pre-surgery tips for these include:
- Schedule your pre-operative eye exam about one week before surgery. This allows Dr. Katzman to take precise measurements for your intraocular lens selection and check for any conditions that need attention.
- Address dry eye issues early if you experience burning, gritty sensations, or frequent tearing. Many patients don’t realize they have dry eyes until after surgery, when it affects their recovery. Starting specialized dry eye treatments 4-6 weeks beforehand can improve outcomes. Dr. Katzman will identify your dry eye status at your initial consultation.
- Optimize chronic health conditions in advance. Well-controlled diabetes and stable blood pressure levels, for example, will promote faster healing and reduce complications. Work with your primary care doctor to ensure your conditions are well-managed before your surgery date.
- Follow medication timing carefully. For instance, some surgeons request stopping blood thinners 3-7 days before surgery, while certain supplements may need discontinuation weeks in advance. Never stop medications on your own; always follow Dr. Katzman’s specific instructions. Dr. Katzman will review your medications at the pre-op testing visit 1-2 weeks before your surgery date.
Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before surgery to prevent anesthesia complications and ensure optimal healing.
2. What Should I Know About Surgery Day Logistics?
Knowing when to arrive, what to bring, and each phase’s duration can help you feel prepared. Dr. Katzman’s team coordinates everything from arrival to discharge, all designed to minimize waiting and maximize your comfort throughout the 2.5-3 hour process. Day-of surgery tips include:
- Arrive on time at the surgical center for preparation and paperwork.
- Fast for 8+ hours. No food or drink to ensure safe anesthesia.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that accommodates monitoring equipment. Button-down shirts work well for this.
- Arrange reliable transportation, as you cannot drive after the procedure.
- Avoid makeup, jewelry, and contact lenses as they interfere with sterile conditions. Wash your face thoroughly if you wore makeup within 24 hours.
- Bring your prescribed eye drops and current medication list.
- Expect 2.5-3 hours total at the facility, though surgery takes only 10-15 minutes.
Dr. Katzman’s flexible anesthesia approach accommodates your comfort preferences, from deep twilight sedation to staying fully awake; there’s an option that suits everyone’s comfort level. Combined with these day-of preparations, this personalized approach ensures optimal surgical conditions and precise, personalized cataract surgery care.
3. How Should I Prep My Home for Recovery? Pre-Surgery Tips
Preparing your home can prevent complications and speed up your return to normal activities. Simple changes like removing area rugs to prevent falls, setting up a reclining spot for your eye drop routine, and organizing entertainment can make a world of difference in your comfort and recovery compliance. Your cataract surgery prep could include:
- Set up a bedside station with water, tissues, and a phone charger within easy reach.
- Arrange your bathroom for accessibility with non-slip mats and grab bars for safety.
- Stock up on easy-to-prepare meals like frozen dinners, canned soup, or pre-made salads.
- Create an entertainment hub with downloaded audiobooks, podcasts, or streaming services.
- Request a compounded 3-in-1 eye drop formula to simplify your medication routine.
Remember: San Diego’s intense sunlight makes quality wraparound sunglasses essential post-surgery protection as you transition back to enjoying morning walks through Balboa Park’s gardens.
4. What Day-Of Support Assistance Should I Arrange?
Proper support arrangements ensure your surgery day and initial recovery go smoothly. Our team guides you on what assistance you’ll need and when to arrange it:
- Schedule 2-3 days off work for adequate rest.
- Organize help for daily tasks like driving, shopping, and chores to reduce strain.
- Prepare your emergency contacts and keep Dr. Katzman’s office number handy.
- Arrange coverage for dependents (children and pets) during recovery.
- Coordinate with family/friends. Brief them on your timeline and how they can help.
5. What Questions Should I Ask and When Should I Call for Help?
Knowing what to discuss during your consultation and when to seek immediate help can prevent minor post-surgery concerns from becoming serious issues.
- Tips for pre-surgery consultation. Ask about your lens choice, realistic recovery timeline, and when you can return to work or activities.
- First 48 hours. Call immediately for severe eye pain, sudden vision loss, excessive redness, or heavy discharge.
- Days 3-14. Contact the office for worsening discomfort, new vision changes, or signs of infection.
- Scheduled follow-ups. Keep your day 1, week 1, and month 1 appointments to monitor healing progress and address concerns.
For more information on healing after cataract surgery, review our comprehensive cataract surgery healing tips guide for post-surgery care.
Ready to Begin Your Cataract Surgery Prep with San Diego’s Leading Expert?
If you’re preparing for cataract surgery in San Diego and want expert guidance, Dr. Katzman’s fellowship training, cutting-edge technology, and systematic approach have made him the trusted choice for the region’s most discerning residents. Questions about your cataract surgery prep? Contact Alvarado Eye Associates at 619-460-3711 to speak with his team.
