Cataract surgery has one of the highest success rates of any type of surgery. Cataract surgeons can remove the eye’s clouded natural lens and replacing it with an artificial lens, greatly repairing your vision. But how do you find the best surgeon?
Asking the Right Questions
Cataract surgery is now so common that you probably know someone who has had the procedure. When you need surgery yourself, you might want to ask for a referral. You might want them to ask some of the following questions about their experience:
• Was the surgeon’s staff open and professional through the procedure?
• Did someone on staff explain billings plainly?
• Was the procedure explained, including possible complications?
• Was after-surgery care given immediately?
Hearing personal recommendations and talking to your insurance will help you make a decision. You might also want to consider talking to your primary vision doctor.
Taking the First Step
Scheduling your first appointment with a surgeon is your opportunity to talk to them and ask more questions, getting to know them as a person and make sure you feel comfortable with them as the doctor for your procedure.
Your discussion should include questions about the following:
• How many procedures have you performed?
• Have you ever had incident of eye infections at this surgical center?
• Who treats and sees patients the day after surgery?
Overall, your meeting should give you a general feel of the doctor’s personality and methods. You should understand the entire procedure, your after-surgery care and length of recovery, cost, and potential risks. Surgeons often have materials or videos to help you prepare for surgery.
Making the Decision
Deciding on a surgeon for this important surgery will be made of a number of factors. Do you want a doctor who has a professional demeanor or a warm bedside manner? Do you want someone who embraces the latest technology, or do you want a “tried and true” method that has been in practice for several years?
Even with the best doctor, no guarantees are made for perfect vision and you may still need eyeglasses under certain conditions.
Your surgeon should be able to lead you in what procedures best fit your situation and personality. Asking the right questions and being prepared will go a long way to help you find the doctor who will make the right decisions with you.
