Barbara Smith,
Dad had a cataract removed from each eye about three years ago. Then, about 4
months after the first cataract was removed, he had to have a macular hole (a
hole in his retina) repaired. This was a pretty gruelling recovery, since he
had to keep his head at 90 degrees to the floor for about 2 months, meaning
that he had to walk bent over from the waist or lay on his stomach (no
sitting). Now, he can't straighten up very well. We're not sure what caused
the need for the macular surgery. It could be that it's his age (he was 73 at
the time), since this particular event sometimes happens with age. It could be
because he falls a lot (he doesn't hit his head, but who knows what damage the
jarring does). Or, it could have been the result of an accident in the
cataract surgery (they might have nicked the retina). Anyway, he can see fine
now, although he has a problem reading graphics on the TV. It's also important
that the patient not get his glasses too soon after the surgery. Dad did, and
he had to wear a pair of glasses that weren't right for him for awhile (they
were going on vacation, and he got his glasses before the swelling and healing
were completely finished). Don't know if any of this will help you or not, but
I hope that it does! Trish
