What is a cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the natural crystalline lens of the eye. In order for us to see properly, the light that enters the eye must pass through this lens. For cataract sufferers, the lens becomes partially or totally opaque, greatly reducing visual acuity. Generally speaking, cataracts are caused by the aging process.

Do we have to wait several months before having surgery?

No. Since The Montreal Eye Clinic is a private clinic, you could have surgery within two to three weeks. 

When can I resume normal activities?

Generally you should be able to resume normal activities within a few days. 

Will I have 20/20 vision?

As with any surgical procedure, there is no guarantee that you will have perfect vision or that you will not need glasses. After the operation, the majority of patients see well enough to pass a driving examination without wearing glasses.

Do I have to be accompanied the day of the surgery?

Yes, you have to be accompanied the day of the surgery.

When Will My Vision Improve?

Most patients experience dramatically improved vision almost immediately following surgery. We recommend you relax for the evening of your surgery, but you can resume your everyday activities the day after surgery. Expect your vision to fluctuate slightly, continually improving, for several weeks following surgery. 

What if my Prescription Changes?

Criteria for age and prescription stability make prescription changes unlikely. The ICL is made out of a collagen based material similar to that used for cataract intra-ocular lenses and are manufactured to remain safely in your eye for the rest of your life. However, another exciting potential benefit of the ICL is that is possibly could be removed or exchanged if necessary. 

Is ICL Surgery Painful?

Because you are given a mild tranquilizer during surgery and local anesthesia is used on the treated eye, there is little to no pain. The surgery takes less than 10 minutes, during which time you are awake, but mildly sedated. Although you won’t be able to see or feel what is happening. Following surgery, you may experience a foreign body sensation and a scratchy feeling in your eye for a short time. 

Can LASIK Correct all eyesight problems?

No. Tests must be performed in order to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for LASIK treatment. In certain cases, other alternatives may be considered such as a minor surgery consisting of inserting the implantable contact lens (ICL) in the eye. This new operation takes approximately 15 minutes and has the advantage of treating those who are not suitable candidates for LASIK

What are the risks associated with LASIK?

like any surgical procedure, LASIK has some risks which will be fully explained to you before the surgery

Will I have 20/20 vision?

As with all surgical procedures, we cannot guarantee that your vision will be perfect or that you will never need to wear glasses. However, the majority of patients can see well enough to pass a driver's test without glasses

Will I need more than one procedure?

In the months following surgery you may experience some regression, which may improve spontaneously. If not, a second LASIK procedure will be performed, free of charge, to correct the problem. Most patients require only one surgical procedure

No. Since The Montreal Eye Clinic is a private clinic, you could have surgery within two to three weeks.

Yes, you have to be accompanied the day of the surgery. Indoor parking is free on the day of the operation.