Have you finally decided to have cataract surgery? If you have cataracts, cataract surgery is the only treatment available.
It’s also the only way to restore vision loss from cataracts. The procedure is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the US and is considered highly effective and low-risk.
But for any surgery, you want the best for the job. Before you have cataract surgery, you want to make sure you choose the best possible cataract surgeon.
But how do you know that you’ve chosen the best one? It can be hard to tell who the best cataract surgeon in your area is.
There are a few key signs if you’re unsure what to look for. Keep reading for a few questions to determine if you’ve chosen the best cataract surgeon in Tyson’s Corner!
Are They Experienced?
Since cataract surgery is a very common procedure, it’s not unusual for cataract surgeons to have performed it hundreds, if not thousands, of times. When undergoing a procedure on your eyes, the more experienced your cataract surgeon is, the better.
It’s also essential that your surgeon has extensive education as well as board certification. To become a cataract surgeon, they need to have a medical degree.
There’s nothing wrong with finding out where they went to school, where they did their residency, and what certifications they attained. Talk to your surgeon and do your research to make sure they have all the right qualifications.
These qualifications are crucial to ensuring your cataract surgeon has the experience necessary to perform the surgery and give you the best possible results.
Are They Supportive?
Does your cataract surgeon make you feel comfortable? Did you feel like you could ask them questions and voice any concerns?
Did they answer your questions and address your concerns in a compassionate way that was easy to understand? If the answer to these questions is “yes,” that’s a good sign that you’ve got a great cataract surgeon.
Extensive education and experience are the basis for being a good cataract surgeon. It’s also vital that they’re supportive and make you feel safe.
Undergoing any surgical procedure can make you feel a little nervous. Knowing your surgeon truly cares about your mental well-being and comfort can be reassuring.
If it feels like your cataract surgeon didn’t know the answers to your questions, didn’t feel comfortable answering them, or was rushing you out the door, these can be red flags. Feeling uncomfortable with your surgeon may lead to disappointment with your results, so make sure you feel confident with your choice.
You can always go back to the drawing board and research other available cataract surgeons if necessary.
Is Their Practice a Welcoming Environment?
Did the medical support staff make you feel safe? Were you treated well? Was it easy to schedule consultations and your surgery and follow-up appointments?
It’s just as important for your surgeon’s support staff to be as welcoming and compassionate as your surgeon. When you were at the practice, was the administrative staff welcoming?
If everything leading up to your cataract surgery went smoothly, it’s a good indication that you’ve chosen a fantastic surgeon who’s part of a great practice.
Did They Explain What to Expect During the Procedure?
Did your surgeon explain to you what cataract surgery entails? The specific technicalities of cataract surgery can be complicated. If you have an excellent cataract surgeon, they should be able to break down the procedure in a way that’s easy to understand.
Knowing exactly what to expect during your procedure can make you feel safer. It can also help you understand how to plan and prepare.
Your surgeon should tell you exactly what to expect on the day of surgery, how you should prepare, and what you need to do following the procedure during recovery. Many surgeons will give you literature that gives specific instructions.
They must also communicate with you verbally so you can fully understand what to expect and what is expected of you.
Did They Make You Feel Confident in Your IOL of Choice?
One pivotal part of cataract surgery is choosing an intraocular lens or IOL. The IOL is what replaces your natural lens once it’s removed during cataract surgery.
There are many kinds of IOL to choose from, depending on your visual goals and needs after cataract surgery. Your cataract surgeon should explain all your options and choices and give their recommendation for the best one.
What if You Didn’t Choose the Best Cataract Surgeon?
Do you think you may have chosen the wrong cataract surgeon? If you don’t feel like your surgeon is supporting you, there’s nothing wrong with getting a second opinion.
You should feel fully informed when choosing an IOL. A good cataract surgeon will make you confident in your IOL choice.
You can always start by scheduling a cataract consultation with the experts at See Clearly Vision. We have some of the best cataract surgeons in Tyson’s Corner who are here to help you see the world better than ever.
If you feel unsure about your cataract surgeon, you owe it to yourself to find one you can trust. You only get one pair of eyes, after all.
Request an appointment with the trusted cataract surgeons at See Clearly Vision in Tyson’s Corner and McLean, VA. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain, so what are you waiting for?
