How Do You Know When to Have Cataract Surgery?

If you have a cataract and are experiencing symptoms such as blurry vision, you may want to start thinking about having cataract surgery. It is an outpatient procedure that replaces your natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens.

The results are clearer vision and regained independence. A cataract diagnosis does not always mean you need to have cataract surgery immediately. There are various factors you and your eye doctor should consider before deciding when to have your cataracts removed.

Keep reading to learn more about knowing when to have cataract surgery.

Symptoms of a Cataract

Cataracts can have a range of symptoms related to your eyesight. The most common one is cloudy or blurry vision. Others include:

• Trouble seeing at night
• Light and glare sensitivity
• Seeing “halos” around lights
• Fading or yellowing of colors
• Double vision

Not every person with a cataract will experience these symptoms. Since a cataract involves a gradual progression, in early stages, its effects can be mild. Some patients may not even realize they have one until a later point in life.

Signs You May Benefit from Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is typically recommended if your cataract(s) get in the way of daily life. For example, you may be unable to drive at night, use the computer, or enjoy watching a movie.

If a cataract impedes your ability to enjoy your favorite hobbies or participate in everyday activities, it may be time to consider surgery. To help determine whether your symptoms warrant this procedure, ask yourself these questions:

• Is my vision affecting my ability to perform daily tasks?
• Is my sight making it difficult to enjoy regular activities?
• Is my inability to see putting my health and safety at risk?
• Is my vision affecting my ability to live independently?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, the next step should be talking to your eye doctor about having cataract surgery to improve your life.

How Can Cataract Surgery Improve My Vision?

If you find that your quality of life is being affected by the presence of a cataract, it may be time to consider having cataract surgery.

The artificial lens implanted during cataract surgery is called an intraocular lens (IOL). It corrects your vision by focusing light at the back of the lens. While you cannot see or feel the lens, it can dramatically improve your vision.

After cataract surgery, you may even be able to see better than you could before developing a cataract. Choosing cataract surgery can even correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

After cataract surgery, your vision will be sharper and colors brighter. You may also reduce or eliminate your need to wear glasses or contact lenses.

Deciding to have cataract surgery is an important decision that you should discuss with your eye doctor.