Eye surgery is a common procedure that is performed to correct a wide range of vision problems. If you are experiencing vision problems or discomfort in your eyes, your optometrist may recommend that you undergo eye surgery. Here are times when you might need eye surgery, what to expect during the procedure, and the services optometrists will offer you.  

When Might You Need Eye Surgery? 

Eye surgery is typically recommended for individuals who are experiencing vision problems or discomfort in their eyes that cannot be corrected through other methods, such as glasses or contact lenses. Some of the most common reasons for eye surgery include cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment. 

Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, which can cause blurry vision and glare. Glaucoma is a condition in which pressure builds up inside the eye, which can lead to damage to the optic nerve and vision loss. Macular degeneration is a condition in which the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision, deteriorates over time. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the underlying tissue, which can cause vision loss if not treated promptly. 

What to Expect During Eye Surgery? 

The specific details of the eye surgery will depend on the type of procedure you are having. However, most eye surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, which means that you can go home the same day. You will be given local anaesthesia to numb the eye, and the surgery will typically take between 30 minutes to an hour to complete. 

After the surgery, you will be given instructions on how to care for your eye and what to expect during the recovery period. You may need to wear a patch over your eye for a few days to protect it, and you may need to avoid certain activities, such as swimming or heavy lifting, for a period of time. Your optometrist will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure that you are healing properly. 

Services Optometrists Will Offer You 

If you are experiencing vision problems or discomfort in your eyes, your optometrist will offer a range of services to help diagnose and treat the problem. These services may include a comprehensive eye exam, diagnostic testing, and consultation on the best treatment options for your specific condition. 

Your optometrist will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that meets your unique needs and preferences. If eye surgery is recommended, they will refer you to an ophthalmologist, who is a medical doctor specialising in eye surgery. Your optometrist will also provide follow-up care after the surgery to monitor your progress and ensure that you are healing properly. 

Eye surgery is a common procedure that is used to correct a wide range of vision problems. If you are experiencing vision problems or discomfort in your eyes, your optometrist may recommend that you undergo eye surgery. The specific details of the surgery will depend on the type of procedure you are having, but most surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis and have a relatively short recovery period. Your optometrist will provide a range of services to help diagnose and treat your vision problem, and will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that meets your unique needs and preferences. Make an appointment with your optometrist to arrange an eye check-up, or if you are experiencing any eye trouble.