5 Things To Know About Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is a very common procedure that many people will face as they grow older. While cataracts are not 100 percent guaranteed to go along with aging, they often do. Sometimes it’s even possible for younger people to developing this sight-robbing condition.

If cataract surgery is recommended for you or a loved one, chances are some questions have cropped up about what to expect. Here are some of the most common ones surrounding the condition and the surgical fix to stop it in its tracks:

Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. This generally happens as people age, but illness and injury can sometimes make them present in young people, as well.

How common is surgery to correct cataracts?
Cataract surgery happens to be one of the most common procedures performed. In fact, it’s the most common in the population of people age 65 and older. Doctors across the country are highly trained in procedures that are designed to remove the damage lens and replace it with one that allows for much clearer vision.

Is it possible to avoid surgery?
Eye surgeons may wait to intervene when a cataract hasn’t progressed very far, but surgical removal is the only effective, long-term treatment option. When clouding begins, it is not possible to stop progression in its tracks.

Can other vision problems be corrected at the same time?
The surgical procedure involves the removal of the natural lens and replacement with a synthetic one. This synthetic lens can be designed to correct vision problems, such as near or farsightedness. 

How advanced is cataract surgery?
This procedure has come a very long way in recent years. Now performed on an outpatient basis, patients can elect to have part of their procedure performed with a laser.  In fact, most patients find they are recovered almost fully within a few days.

Cataracts can slowly, but surely rob vision. Surgery to correct them can preserve sight while improving it in the process. To learn more, consult with a licensed eye surgeon. 

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