Cataract Surgery Co-Management in Chicago, IL
If you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts and your provider has recommended surgery, Ideal Family Eye Care is here to guide you through every step of the process. From your pre-surgical evaluation to all post-operative follow-up care, our experienced optometrists work closely with trusted cataract surgeons in the Chicago area to ensure you achieve the clearest, most comfortable vision possible after surgery.
request an appointmentWhat Is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed and safest surgical procedures in the world. During the operation, the clouded natural lens of the eye — which has become opaque due to cataract formation — is carefully removed and replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The IOL is implanted in the exact position of the original lens, where it integrates permanently and provides lasting vision correction.
Modern artificial IOLs are extremely durable, do not degrade over time, and are not subject to rejection by the body. Depending on the type of IOL selected, cataract surgery can also correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, potentially reducing your dependence on glasses or contacts after surgery.
How Cataract Surgery Works
Cataract surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure and typically completed in under an hour. The vast majority of patients receive local anesthesia via eye drops, which makes the eye sufficiently insensitive to pain throughout the procedure — general anesthesia is only used in specific circumstances. During the procedure, your surgeon makes tiny micro-incisions in the cornea to access the clouded lens. The damaged lens is broken into small fragments using ultrasonic energy and gently suctioned out. The new artificial IOL is then folded and inserted through the same small incision, where it unfolds and locks into position. The micro-incisions are self-sealing and typically require no stitches.
Preparing for Cataract Surgery
Before your cataract surgery, your pre-operative care at Ideal Family Eye Care will include a comprehensive eye exam, precise measurements of your eye’s dimensions to determine the correct IOL power, and a full review of your ocular and medical history. We will also provide you with detailed pre-operative instructions, which typically include:
- Planning for a day off work — most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours
- Arranging transportation to and from surgery, as you will not be able to drive immediately after
- Following your surgeon’s instructions regarding food and beverage intake on the day of surgery
- Avoiding alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to the procedure
Recovery After Cataract Surgery
Recovery from cataract surgery is typically fast and straightforward. Most patients notice a significant improvement in their vision within 24 hours of the procedure. The day after surgery, your surgeon will remove any protective dressing. You can resume normal daily activities almost immediately, though we advise avoiding strenuous physical activity for approximately two weeks. All post-operative follow-up appointments take place right here at Ideal Family Eye Care, where our team will monitor your healing progress and ensure your vision is developing as expected.
If you have been diagnosed with cataracts or are experiencing symptoms such as blurry, cloudy, or dim vision, call Ideal Family Eye Care today at (773) 774-2200 to schedule a consultation and find out if cataract surgery is the right next step for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cataract Surgery
What are cataracts and when is surgery needed?
Cataracts occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing blurry, dim, or yellowed vision. Surgery is typically recommended when cataracts begin to significantly interfere with your daily activities such as driving, reading, or watching TV and vision can no longer be adequately corrected with glasses or contacts.
Is cataract surgery safe?
Yes. Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most commonly performed surgical procedures in the world, with a very high success rate. Complications are rare and most patients experience a significant improvement in their vision following surgery.
Will I be awake during cataract surgery?
Yes, most patients are awake during cataract surgery. Local anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eye so you feel no pain. You may see light and movement during the procedure but will not see the surgical instruments. General anesthesia is only used in certain situations, such as extreme anxiety or specific medical conditions.
How long does cataract surgery take?
The cataract surgery procedure itself typically takes less than one hour. Since it is performed on an outpatient basis, you can go home on the same day after a short recovery period.
Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?
This depends on the type of IOL selected. Standard monofocal IOLs correct vision at one distance, so reading glasses may still be needed for close work. Premium multifocal or toric IOLs can correct vision at multiple distances or address astigmatism, potentially reducing your need for glasses. Your provider at Ideal Family Eye Care will discuss your IOL options during your pre-operative consultation.
What should I expect during recovery from cataract surgery?
Most patients notice improved vision within 24 hours. You can resume normal everyday activities the day after surgery, though strenuous physical activities should be avoided for about two weeks. All of your post-operative follow-up care is provided right here at Ideal Family Eye Care.
How do I schedule a cataract surgery consultation at Ideal Family Eye Care?
Call Ideal Family Eye Care at (773) 774-2200 or request an appointment online. Our team will perform a thorough evaluation of your eyes and determine whether cataract surgery is the right next step for your vision health.