FAQ

1. Can I take my medications the day of my surgery?

Yes, but only with a small sip of water.

 2. Do I need to stop my Coumadin?

 No, since there is minimal if any bleeding you do not need to stop it.

3. Can I take my eye drops (glaucoma medication)?

You can take most eye drops the day of surgery. If you are on PILOCARPINE, you must stop it the day prior to surgery but continue them again the day after your surgery.

4. Do I take my Insulin the day of surgery?

No, the morning of your surgery, you do NOT take your insulin but resume it when you get home.

5. Should I bring a driver with me on the day of surgery?

Yes, we advise you not to drive on the day of surgery, as you may be drowsy.

6. Do I need to bring anything with me on the day of surgery to the hospital?

Yes, you need to bring your health card and any paperwork (forms) you would have received from our office and any medications in their original containers.

7. How long will I be at the hospital?

From start to finish, approximately 3 hours.

8. Am I put to sleep?

No. Since cataract surgery takes a minimal amount of time, local anesthesia is preferred.

9. Can a cataract be treated with laser?

No. First time cataract extraction is always done by surgery. Some patients may develop a secondary cataract, which can than be removed by laser.

10. Can I take a shower after surgery?

No showering for 1 week. Taking a bath is preferred.

11. Can I wash and color my hair after surgery?

Yes.

12. Can I drive after surgery?

This will depend on the level of your vision.

13. Can I wear my old glasses?

Yes, you must remember the lens on the side of your operated eye is no longer suitable this will be replaced 4 weeks after surgery. You can have that lens removed at any eyeglass store.

14. Can I wear sunglasses?

Yes, they will not harm your recovery.

15. Can I bowl, play golf, read, watch TV after surgery?

No bowling or playing golf for at least 1 week. Reading and watching TV is fine.

16. Do I really need to have an implant?

An implant is preferred as it is more convenient than other methods of lens replacement such as contacts or very thick glasses.

17. How long has Dr. Tayfour been doing cataract surgery?

Since 1988.