When Is the Right Time to Consider Cataract Surgery?

Cataracts develop slowly over time, clouding the lens of your eye and causing blurry vision or other symptoms. However, cataracts don’t always disturb your eyesight early on. If your quality of vision becomes compromised, you should schedule a visit with your ophthalmologist. 

If you’re diagnosed with cataracts, you aren’t alone. They affect nearly 25 million people over the age of 40 in the United States and almost half of all Americans 75 and older.

Your eye has a lens behind it that refracts light onto your retina, producing clear images. Cataracts develop when protein builds up on the lens, which stops light from passing through it. This causes vision impairment that can range from mild to severe.

Symptoms of cataracts

You may have cataracts if you: 

• Have clouded or blurred vision
• Don’t see well at night
• Are sensitive to light
• See lights with a halo effect
• Notice colors seem faded 
• Have frequent changes in your lens prescriptions
• Have double vision in one eye

As cataracts in your eye grow larger, your symptoms are likely to become more noticeable. That’s why it’s important to schedule regular visits to an ophthalmologist who can guide you on how to avoid the progression of cataracts or provide early detection.

If your vision is severely affected by cataracts, it may be time to consider cataract surgery.

How cataract surgery works

The only way to treat cataracts is to have your lens removed and replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL). The surgery to remove your cataracts usually takes no more than a half-hour. 

To begin the procedure, your eyes are dilated and numbing drops are used around the treatment area to ensure your comfort.

Your surgeon then makes a tiny incision in the front of your eye and a pin-like, thin probe is inserted into the area where your cataract has formed. The probe transmits ultrasound waves to break up your cataract and suction out the fragments.

Your natural lens is then replaced with an IOL to restore your vision. You can choose from a variety of IOLs to accommodate your vision needs, including monofocal, multifocal, or toric (for astigmatism) lenses.

What to expect after surgery

As your eyes heal after your cataract surgery, you may experience dry eyes, irritation, and light sensitivity. Expect your doctor to schedule follow-up appointments with you to ensure your eyes are healing as they should.

It’s also important to note that you won’t be able to drive after your procedure, so make sure you arrange a ride home ahead of time.

To have your eyes examined for cataracts or to discuss cataract surgery, call the Maryland Eye Care Center location that’s most convenient for you or book your appointment online.