Policyholder Services

How soon after cataract surgery should the first post-operative exam occur?

Updated 9/30/2019

In their October 2011 Preferred Practice Pattern, Cataract in the Adult Eye, the American Academy of Ophthalmology provides guidelines for follow-up based on consensus in the absence of evidence for optimal follow-up schedules, with the first visit generally occurring within 24 – 48 hours of surgery.  (See Table 5.)  In addition, they recommend that patients be informed about appropriate signs and symptoms of possible complications and be instructed to contact the ophthalmologist promptly if problems occur. The AAO further suggests that the frequency and timing of postoperative visits in the absence of complications depends on several factors, including the size or configuration of the incision, the need to cut or remove sutures, and stabilization of refraction, visual function, and the medical condition of the eye.

OMIC has not established underwriting requirements or policy conditions relating to the timing of post-operative exams following cataract surgery.

Updated 12/8/2015