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Can you legally drive with cataracts?
To be able to drive after cataract surgery, or indeed, at all, you must meet the DVLA’s visual standards for driving(1). This means that you must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away. You also need to be able to read the 6/12 of an eye test chart with both eyes open*.
Why can’t I drive after cataract surgery?
Driving After Cataract Surgery Cataract surgery requires anesthesia, and for this reason you will not be able to drive yourself home immediately after your surgery. Instead, you will be released into the care of a loved one and they will need to drive you home so you can rest for the remainder of the day.
What happens if you don’t have cataracts removed?
Over time, cataracts become worse and start to interfere with vision. Important skills can be affected, such as driving, and loss of vision can affect the overall quality of life in many ways including reading, working, hobbies and sports. If left untreated, cataracts will eventually cause total blindness.
What is the average price for cataract surgery?
The average out-of-pocket cost of cataract surgery is $3,500 per eye, based on most recent estimates (updated April 21, 2021). The cost estimate reflects a standard cataract surgery procedure not covered by private insurance or Medicare, both of which could offset the out-of-pocket expense significantly.
What happens on the first day of cataract surgery?
After the procedure After cataract surgery, expect your vision to begin improving within a few days. Your vision may be blurry at first as your eye heals and adjusts. Colors may seem brighter after your surgery because you are looking through a new, clear lens.
Is driving safe after a cataract surgery?
Driving after cataract surgery can be safe for all parties involved when the patient has been given the go ahead and feel completely comfortable behind the wheel. Initially, you will not be able to drive at all when your eyes are still healing. It can feel like a major hindrance, but this advice can prevent tragic consequences.
What activities should I avoid after cataract surgery?
Avoid any heavy lifting or bending from the waist to get objects from the floor until you get approval to do so from your doctor. Swimming and water activities should be avoided for at least the first week after surgery because getting water in your eyes could increase the risk of infection.
How long is the recovery time after cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery recovery time is considered to be approximately six weeks. However, most patients should find that any pain or discomfort will subside within a day or two of their surgery. Immediately following cataract surgery, patients may experience some pain and irritation of the eye.
How long do you have to wait after cataract surgery?
Typically, vision is greatly improved immediately after surgery. For driving, the minimal amount of time before you should be OK to drive is 24 hours after cataract surgery, though you are strongly advised to wait for confirmation from your doctor based on your follow-up examination.