Pre-Cataract Eye Care & Lens Guidance
Prepare for a Successful Surgery
Cataract surgery is a common procedure usually performed on patients over 60 years of age. But did you know that failure to properly prepare may negatively affect your outcome? Our Pre-Surgical Consultations are designed to address two factors that impact patient satisfaction following cataract surgery:
- Untreated dry eye disease
- Lack of education and awareness of lens implant (Intra-ocular lens or IOL) options
Our goal is to address both of these factors, so you can go into surgery fully prepared and confident.
Why Pre-Surgical Eye Care Matters
The Hidden Risks of Dry Eye Before Surgery
Untreated dry eye disease can affect your vision after cataract surgery. Even mild or unnoticeable dry eye can affect the important measurements done prior to cataract surgery. This can lead to blurry vision and disappointing results. Unmanaged dry eye disease often causes irritation and discomfort following cataract surgery. Additionally, untreated blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) increases your risk of serious post-surgical infections.
By treating dry eye disease before surgery, you can:
- Improve the accuracy of your lens measurements
- Reduce the risk of surgical complications
- Heal faster after surgery
- Reduce discomfort and irritation following surgery
Choosing the Right Intraocular Lens (IOL) Is Overwhelming
At the surgeon's office, patients are often handed a long list of lens implant options, each of which provides differing vision results. Choosing the wrong one can be problematic, as IOLs cannot be easily exchanged, and will affect your vision for years to come. Our IOL consultations help you clearly understand your options and choose what’s right for your lifestyle, your expectations, and the health of your eyes.
We help you:
- Understand the pros and cons of each lens type
- Compare monovision, enhanced monovision, multifocal, and Light-Adjustable IOLs
- Align your decision with your vision goals and daily needs
What’s Included in Your Consultation
Comprehensive Dry Eye Testing
We begin by checking your eyes for any signs of dryness or inflammation that could interfere with surgery.
Tests Performed
- Osmolarity Testing: Measures tear quality to detect dry eye
- Meibography: Assesses the health of your oil glands
- DEQ-5 Survey: Captures your dry eye symptoms and severity
- Corneal Sensitivity Testing: Identifies nerve issues
- Fluorescein Staining: Highlights damage to the eye surface
- Gland Expression: Checks how well your glands are working
Based on the results, your optometrist will create a customized dry eye and eyelid hygiene treatment plan, and prepare a detailed report for your eye surgeon.
Personalized IOL & Surgery Counseling
We take the time to walk you through your surgical options, lens types, and what each choice means for your daily life.
You’ll leave with:
- Clarity about your options
- Confidence in your decision
- Peace of mind that your eyes are ready for surgery
Our Pre-Surgical Ocular Wellness Package
To prepare your eyes for the best surgical outcome, we offer the following ocular wellness package:
Includes:
- 2 bottles of Thealoz Duo ($36 each): Hydrates and protects the eye surface
- 4 packs of Blephaclean Wipes ($24 each): Keeps eyelids clean to reduce infection risk
- 2 bottles of PRN Omega-3 Supplements ($129 each): Supports tear gland function
- 1 session of ZEST Eyelid Cleaning ($180): Deep cleans lashes and lid margins
Package Price: $550 (Save $56) normally covers four months of dry eye therapy
Your optometrist will schedule follow-ups as needed to monitor your progress and ensure your eyes remain healthy leading up to surgery.
What to Expect
- Initial 30-Minute Appointment: Testing, treatment plan, and lens consultation
- Begin using the Ocular Wellness Package: Use recommended drops, wipes, and supplements
- Follow-Up Appointments: As needed to track healing and adjust care
- Surgery-Ready: With a healthy ocular surface and clear vision plan
Frequently Asked Questions
Why treat dry eye before cataract surgery?
Treating dry eye improves the accuracy of your surgical measurements and reduces post-op risks like infection, discomfort, and blurred vision.
How do I choose the best lens for cataract surgery?
Your optometrist will explain the benefits and trade-offs of each lens option. Together, you’ll choose the one that fits your vision needs and lifestyle.
Is this service covered by Alberta Health?
No, this is a private-pay service based on the latest research and lens implants available.
What if I already have a surgeon?
Perfect. We’ll work with your surgeon by sending them a full report with your dry eye treatment plan and lens decision.
Take the First Step Toward Clearer Vision
Don’t leave your surgical results to chance. Get expert dry eye treatment and personalized guidance that puts you in control of your vision journey.
