Pupil Size and Cataract Surgery

Pupil dilation is necessary for cataract surgery because your surgeon must have a clear and unobstructed view of the structures in your eye behind your iris. Proper dilation ensures a safer more successful surgery and decreases your risk for complications.

Before your cataract surgery, Dr. Stephen Wilmarth will dilate your pupil with eye drops. Lighter colored eyes, like blue or hazel, are quicker to respond to dilation. Dark colored eyes will take longer.

After cataract surgery you may experience pupil dilation for up to a week. Most large post op pupils will return to normal after surgery. However, in a small number of cases, the pupil may remain slightly dilated permanently. This rarely cause visual issues but it may raise cosmetic concerns if one pupil is larger than the other. Eye drops that constrict the pupil may be helpful and Dr. Wilmarth will suggest drops as needed.

Dr. Wilmarth recommends the most advanced intraocular lenses for your lens replacement with your cataract surgery. Patients experience a short recovery period. Most are back to normal activities the day after surgery.

Certain medications, such as Flomax and other alpha-blockers may inhibit proper pupil dilation. During your consultation with Dr. Wilmarth, he will discuss your medical history and current medications to ensure that he can properly plan for your cataract surgery and take any necessary precautions.

If you need cataract surgery in the Greater Sacramento area, Folsom or Roseville, please contact Wilmarth Eye to schedule your initial consultation. We look forward to working with you.