A cataract is a cloudy lens that forms over the eye, causing vision problems. If you have cataracts, the eye doctor may recommend surgery to remove the damaged lens. You may receive an intraocular lens to correct a refractive error. Doctors usually recommend surgery when cataracts make it difficult to perform daily tasks. Most people experience improvements in their vision after surgery, and complications are rare. Find out if cataract surgery is safe. 

Treating Cataracts With Surgery 

The eye has a lens made of water and proteins that helps to focus light. Sometimes, the lens becomes yellow and cloudy as the proteins begin to break down. The most common cause of cataracts is aging. However, the condition can also be due to injury, certain medications, medical conditions, and previous eye surgeries. 

Cataracts stop light from getting through the eye lens, causing symptoms such as blurry vision. Cataract surgery is the only effective way to treat cataracts. It is the most common type of eye surgery globally. 

During Cataract Surgery

During cataract surgery, ophthalmologists remove the cloudy eye lens and replace it with an intraocular lens (IOL). Patients can choose the IOL that is best for them to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness. 

The artificial lenses are clear, which allows light to pass through effectively to focus the eyes. The eye specialist may recommend specialty lenses to correct astigmatism or presbyopia. After surgery, individuals can see clearly without wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses. 

Is Cataract Surgery Safe?

Cataract surgery is a safe and effective outpatient procedure. Most people experience complete vision restoration without complications. The recovery is fast, and doctors usually perform the procedure on one eye at a time. 

If you have cataracts in both eyes, the doctor will schedule two surgeries, one or two weeks apart. Most patients experience little or no pain after the surgery. A topical anesthetic helps to numb the eye during the procedure. The eyes may feel slightly tender or gritty immediately after the surgery, but OTC medication can help. 

When Is Cataract Surgery Necessary?

Experts do not consider cataracts a medical emergency, and patients can choose the best time to get surgery. In most cases, eye doctors follow the wait-and-see approach before recommending surgery. 

If your condition is causing vision problems, the eye specialist may recommend cataract surgery. The procedure helps to improve vision loss due to cataracts. Doctors may also use surgery to manage eye conditions, such as diabetes-related retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. 

Preparing for Cataract Surgery 

You need a comprehensive eye exam to determine if you need cataract surgery. The ophthalmologist will examine your eye health to determine if you qualify for surgery. Tests determine any risk factors associated with the surgery. 

The doctor will measure your eyes to find out the IOL focusing power you need. During the exam, you will find out if you need prescription eye drops. You can ask questions and discuss your concerns before surgery. 

If you just learned you have cataracts, a new eyeglass or contact lens prescription may help. However, if your vision continues to worsen, you need surgery. Experts suggest that more than 50% of individuals over 85 will require cataract surgery. 

To learn more about cataract surgery, visit Coastal Vision Medical Group. Our offices are in Chino, Irvine, Long Beach, Orange, and Newport Beach, California. Call (888) 501-4496 to book an appointment today.