Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness and severe visual impairments in the world, but luckily, if you have cataracts you may be able to avoid blindness by getting surgery. Basically, the surgery removes the unhealthy lens in your eye and replaces it with a new one. Before your surgery, here are some steps you should take to prepare.

1. Decide Which Type of Lenses You Want

In the past, there was only one type of lens used in cataract surgeries, and it helped you to see at a distance. Now, however, there are advanced technology lenses that correct both your distance and near-sighted vision. Those lenses are perfect for some patients, but they don't work for others. Decide which approach you prefer and then, talk with your doctor to make sure you choose the right lenses for your situation.

2. Avoid Blood Thinners

Whether you take aspirin or any prescription medications that cause your blood to thin, you may need to stop those for a while before the cataract surgery. With any surgery, blood thinners make it hard for your blood to clot, and that can make it hard to recover. Talk with your doctor before altering your prescription medication routine.

Also, note that alcohol is a blood thinner. Do not drink the day before the procedure, and ask your surgeon how long you should abstain from alcohol after the surgery.

3. Submit to Tests or Medications as Recommended by Your Surgeon

Before the cataract surgery, it's critical to listen to "doctor's orders". In particular, if your doctor requests any tests, you need to get them done. Additionally, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops. If so, make sure you use those as directed. They can be extremely helpful to ensure that you don't get an infection during the surgery.

4. Arrange Help

The cataract surgery doesn't take that long, and in many cases, you may not even be required to sleep at the hospital. However, you won't be able to see clearly right away, and because of that, you need to arrange for a drive home from the hospital.

Additionally, you may need help with day-to-day tasks as your recover and your eyesight gets back to normal. Ideally, you don't want to scramble around looking for rides or help after the surgery so set up everything you need in advance.

To learn more, talk with your cataract surgery specialist directly.