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Cataract surgery instructions

PATIENT’S GUIDE TO CATARACT SURGERY

Erik Anderson MD

Thank you for choosing Dr. Anderson for your cataract surgery in Colorado Springs. He is dedicated to providing the highest standard of eye care and helping you achieve the best possible visual results. This packet will guide you step-by-step through the cataract surgery process.

Pre-Op & Post-Op Location (Dr. Anderson’s Office)
320 E Fontanero St, Suite 201
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Your pre-op visit and the day-after-surgery appointment are held here.

Follow-Up Schedule

  • Day After Surgery: Appointment with Dr. Anderson or your referring optometrist to evaluate your recovery.

  • 30 Days After Surgery: Follow-up to review your progress. If both eyes are operated on, this visit occurs after the second surgery. Your glasses prescription will also be reviewed at this visit.

Your surgery is scheduled for a Wednesday at the Premier Surgery Center, a state-of-the-art facility licensed by the State of Colorado, certified by Medicare, and accredited by The Joint Commission. Only one eye is done at a time. 

Premier Surgery Center Address:
3920 N Union Blvd Unit 240
Colorado Springs, CO 80907

A nurse from the surgery center will contact you prior to confirm your arrival time and answer any questions you may have. Please note that Dr. Anderson’s office does not have your arrival time — these are set directly by Premier. 

PREPARING FOR SURGERY

Pre-Surgery Fasting Instructions:
  • Do not eat or drink anything for 12 hours before your surgery.
  • You may take your regular medications with a small sip of water.
Eye Drop Protocol:
  • Start two days prior to surgery, continue on the day of surgery, and for 30 days after surgery.
  • Use prescribed eye drops in the operated eye only.
  • Wait 5 minutes between applying each drop.
  • Prescribed Medications: You have two options: use your insurance to pick up two bottles at your local pharmacy, or pay out-of-pocket to have one bottle mailed to you, which usually causes less burning. You have three refills available; if you need more drops, please contact the pharmacy directly.
  • First option (local pharmacy of your choice):
    • Ketorolac: Use one drop twice daily. Refrigerate to reduce burning.
    • Prednisolone: Shake well before use. Use one drop twice daily.
  • Second option:
    • Combination drop (Prednisolone/Bromfenac): through OSRX pharmacy 855-466-1076. Use one drop twice daily.

THE DAY OF SURGERY

WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT PREMIER SURGERY CENTER OF COLORADO SPRINGS

  • Please arrive promptly at your scheduled appointment time.
  • After you check in, a nurse will answer any questions and help you get ready for surgery.
  • Bring your current photo ID, insurance card(s), and an updated list of your medications.
  • If you need an interpreter and do not speak English or Spanish, arrange for someone to accompany you and stay at the center until you are discharged.
  • For your safety, leave all valuables—such as jewelry and watches—at home.

ANESTHESIA

A certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) will meet with you before surgery to review your anesthesia plan. Most cataract surgeries use twilight sedation, which keeps you awake while ensuring you remain comfortable and relaxed during the procedure.

RECOVERY

After surgery, you’ll spend about 20–30 minutes in recovery while your vital signs are monitored. For safety, have an adult drive you home and do not drive for 24 hours due to anesthesia-related drowsiness or lightheadedness.

AFTER SURGERY INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Eye Protection & Care:
    • Do not rub or squeeze your eyelids; use artificial tears if irritated.
    • A clear shield is placed after surgery. Most patients wear it for 24 hours; if you’re tempted to rub your eye, keep using it longer.
    • Wear dark sunglasses in bright light.
  • Hygiene & Makeup:
    • You may shower or bathe, but avoid getting water directly in the operated eye.
    • No eyeliner or mascara for 1 week; other makeup is allowed.
  • Glasses & Driving:
    • You may use temporary reading glasses as needed.
    • Do not drive for 24 hours after surgery; resume when your vision is clear and you feel safe.
  • Diet & Medications:
    • Eat lightly for the first 24 hours, then resume your normal diet and medications.
    • Use prednisolone acetate and ketorolac twice daily for 30 days, or the OSRX combination drop as directed. Contact your pharmacy for refills.
  • Activity & Exercise:
    • Rest on the day of surgery; gradually return to normal activities over the week.
    • Avoid strenuous activity or lifting over 25 lbs. for 1 week.
    • Light walking is fine; light exercise after 1 week (e.g., golf, tennis, skiing).
    • Avoid swimming and hot tubs for 2 weeks.
  • Travel:
    • Flying is allowed, but it’s best to stay local shortly after surgery in case any issues arise
  • Normal After Surgery: 
    • These symptoms are expected after eye surgery and typically improve over the first few weeks. Please be patient during the 30-day recovery period:
    • Mild irritation or itching
    • Redness
    • Light sensitivity, glare, or halos
    • Blurry vision
    • Temporary floaters or flashes
  • When to Call Us: Though uncommon, infections can occur after cataract surgery and require urgent care. Contact us immediately if you experience any of the following:
    • Significant decrease in vision
    • Eye pain
    • Persistent redness in the operated eye
    • Contact the office at 719-559-2020 ext 110

Common Questions and Answers After Cataract Surgery

  1. How long do I need to use eye drops?
    Prescription eye drops are required for 4 weeks to reduce inflammation. You might need one refill. Please reach out to the pharmacy directly.
  2. Can I use artificial tears? Should I continue my normal eye drops?
    You can use artificial tears, but space the drops at least 5 minutes apart. Keep using all other eye medications, including glaucoma drops if applicable.
  3. How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?
    Most people recover within a few days, but full healing can take about 4–6 weeks.
  4. Is it normal to have blurry vision after surgery?
    Yes, blurriness is common and should improve as the eye heals over the next few days or weeks.
  5. When can I resume normal activities?
    Light activities can be resumed within a day or two, but avoid heavy lifting, bending over, and strenuous exercise for at least a week.
  6. When can I drive again?
    You can usually drive once your vision is clear. Please do not drive for 24 hours after surgery due to sedation from anesthesia.
  7. When can I return to work?
    Most patients can return to work within about 3 days, but this depends on your job duties and how your eyes are healing. 
  8. Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?
    It depends on the type of lens implant you received; some people may still need reading glasses or other vision correction. If you selected a near vision focus for both eyes, you will need glasses for driving.
  9. Is eye pain normal after surgery?
    Mild discomfort is normal, but severe pain should be reported to Dr. Anderson immediately.
  10. Can I watch TV or use my phone after surgery?
    Yes, but take breaks to rest your eyes and avoid excessive screen time if you feel strain.
  11. When can I shower or wash my face?
    You can shower the next day, but avoid getting water or soap directly in your eye for at least a week.
  12. What should I do if my vision suddenly worsens?
    Contact us immediately at 719-559-2020 ext. 110 if you experience sudden vision loss, severe pain, excessive redness, or flashing lights.

FEES

You will receive separate bills from:

  • Your Surgeon
  • Anesthesia Provider
  • The Facility

MEDICAL INSURANCE

Insurance & Payments

Premier Surgery Center of Colorado Springs accepts most major insurance plans (HMO, PPO, POS) along with Medicare and Medicaid. Co-pays and deductibles are due on the day of surgery. While we submit claims to your insurance as a courtesy, any remaining balance is the patient’s responsibility. For patients without insurance, facility and anesthesia fees must be paid on the day of surgery. 

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at (719) 559-2020 ext 110.

CANCELLATION POLICY

If you’re unable to keep your appointment, please notify your doctor and the Premier Surgery Center of Colorado Springs as soon as possible—preferably at least 48 hours in advance. If you need to cancel a surgery date or develop a new cough, fever, or cold, please contact Laly, the surgery coordinator at (719) 559-2020 ext. 110. Thank you for your courtesy.

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