Frequently Asked Questions

Once my cataract is fixed, will it ever come back?

• No

I have had my cataract fixed. Why do I now need a laser treatment?

• The modern way of doing cataract surgery is place the implant inside the clear bag that used to hold the cataract (this is a normal part of your eye). With time, this bag becomes hazy. Also, some types of cataracts leave a haze on this bag at the time of surgery. The laser clears the haze to make sure you have the best possible vision. The haze does not return.
• There are no physical restrictions before or after the laser. It takes 30 seconds to 1 minute to do, and is painless.

I have had cataract surgery, when can I resume normal activities?

• The day after surgery, it is fine to bend over, and to wash your hair. After 1 week there are no physical restrictions.
• With regard to driving, wait until Dr. Lane says you may do so (most of the time this is 1 week after surgery).

Is modern cataract surgery done with laser?

• This is a common misconception
• Modern cataract surgery is done with Phacoemulsification. This is a form of ultrasound, which removes the cataract through a microincision
• Dr. Lane uses the latest technology available from Bausch & Lomb (Stellaris Vision Enhancement System)
• Sometimes laser is needed AFTER cataract surgery to improve vision (covered by OHIP)

How can I make an appointment to see Dr. Lane?

• Your optometrist or family doctor needs to fax a referral to Dr. Lane’s office at (705) 320-8082
• Dr. Lane’s office will then contact your optometrist or family doctor with an appointment date and time

Once I am Dr. Lane’s patient, do I still need a referral to see him again?

• Yes, if it is for a new problem or more then 1 year has passed since your last visit
• No, if you see Dr. Lane for an ongoing problem (i.e. glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration, …...)

Which services are not covered by OHIP?

• Filling out forms, writing letters
• IOL Master (new more accurate test for implant power measurement)

If I have a problem after hours, or on the weekend, where do I go?

• Go to your nearest emergency dept.
• There is an ophthalmologist on call 24hrs a day every day

Does Dr. Lane do regular eye check ups and check for glasses?

• No, you would see your optometrist for these services

What are the visual requirements for driving?

• For a G class license (driving a car) in Ontario, one must see 20/50 or better with both eyes open, and have a horizontal visual field of at least 120 degrees with both eyes open

Can I drive if I have only 1 eye?

• Yes, provided you meet the above standard

My driver’s license has been suspended due to poor vision. How do I get my license back from the Ministry of Transport?

• If your vision problem is corrected (i.e. cataract surgery), your optometrist would then check you for new glasses and send a form to the Ministry (this service is not covered by OHIP)