WHAT TO EXPECT FROM 
CATARACT SURGERY

More than 95% of cataract surgeries are performed with no complications. During cataract surgery the cloudy lens is removed from the eye.  This is usually performed under local or topical anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, and typically takes about 15-20 minutes.  In most cases, the focusing power of the natural lens is restored by replacing it with a permanent intraocular lens implant (or IOL). Dr. Proulx performs this delicate surgery using a microscope, miniature instruments and other modern technology. 

After surgery, you will have to use eyedrops for about four weeks.  Dr. Proulx will check your eye several times to make sure it is healing properly. Cataract surgery is a highly successful procedure.  Improved vision is the result in over 95% of cases, unless there is an existing problem with the cornea, retina, optic nerve or other important structures in your eye.  In some cases, patients have excellent distance vision even without the use of spectacles, although the goal of the surgery is to improve vision rather than reducing one’s dependence on glasses.  It is also important to recognize that virtually all patients require spectacles for near tasks after surgery (i.e. reading, etc.), even if they do not require glasses for distance vision.  It is important to understand that complications can rarely occur during or after the surgery, some severe enough to limit vision.  These are all outlined in the consent form that will be provided to you if you elect to proceed with surgery.  If you experience any problems after cataract surgery, Dr. Proulx will want to hear from you immediately. 

TEACHING THE EYE SURGEONS OF TOMORROW

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Please note that St. Joseph’s Health Care is a teaching hospital associated with The Schulich School of Medicine at Western University.  One of our center’s chief missions is to educate and train the physicians and surgeons of tomorrow.  During your surgery, Dr. Proulx may be assisted by a resident physician in ophthalmology.  Resident doctors are highly trained physicians who have completed four years of medical school, and are studying in an additional five year program to become eye care specialists.  Depending on their year of training, the resident doctor may be involved in some individual steps of your operation, or even in the entire surgery itself.  Please be aware that any resident involvement will be done under the direct supervision of your ophthalmologist, and that the quality and safety of your surgery will not be affected in any way.  If you have any questions or concerns about this, please discuss them with Dr. Proulx at the time of your consultation.