Can I Be A Bad Candidate For Cataract Surgery?

July 30th, 2019

Cataract surgery is vital to restoring vision to people who suffer from cataracts. The surgery is simple, does not take very long, and has a very low rate of complications.

The reason is that it’s one of the most performed surgeries in the world. It also has decades of research behind it.

Cataract surgery is as popular as it is because cataracts affect everyone. They are a part of growing older.

But is everyone a good candidate for cataract surgery? Most people are but keep reading to learn more!

When Do I Need Cataract Surgery?

Most people with cataracts will need cataract surgery. The real question is when do you need to have it. Most cataract surgeons will not perform cataract surgery until your vision is impeded.

Cataract surgery is still surgery and carries some built-in risks alongside it. You can live for years with cataracts and not notice their symptoms.

If they are not bothering you early on, there’s no reason to remove your cataracts.

Another important factor that goes into when you need cataract surgery is eye exams. If you know you have cataracts, regular eye exams become even more crucial!

Your eye doctor needs to keep an eye on the development of your cataract to know when you should have surgery. If you don’t attend these exams, your vision will continue deteriorating.

It’s easier to know when to have cataract surgery if your cataracts are being watched. You will have several comprehensive tests to see where your vision is. They will also determine what stage your cataract development is in.

How Cataract Surgery Works

Cataract surgery works by replacing the natural lens of the eye. When you have a cataract, this lens becomes cloudy over time.

The lens is replaced with a man-made lens device called an “IOL”, short for intraocular lens. There are many different kinds of IOLs so it’s important to choose one that fits your vision needs!

You can even choose an IOL that removes your need for glasses completely!

The IOL goes where the natural lens is removed from. The initial lens is first removed by opening up a flap in the cornea.

The surgeon then breaks the lens apart using lasers or high-frequency sound. They then carefully remove the pieces through the flap. They’ll close the flap, which attaches itself naturally over time.

Recovering From Cataract Surgery

Recovery from the surgery is usually uncomplicated. While healing, you’ll need to be extra careful with your eyes.

This means avoiding rubbing them! They may be itchy but don’t rub them whatever you do.

You should also avoid strenuous activities like exercise or sports. You can usually resume these after the first week of recovery from cataract surgery.

You should also be careful when showering to not get any water in your eyes as it can carry bacteria.

Have more questions about what to expect during or after cataract surgery? Schedule a cataract appointment at the Laser Eye Center with Dr. Danny Lee in Huntsville, AL today!