You’re considering cataract surgery, but everyone seems to have a different version of what happens next. Cataract surgery myths can leave you unsure about when to seek treatment and what to expect. You do not have to wait for cataracts to become fully developed, and surgery usually involves little to no discomfort. Whether you need glasses afterward depends on your eyes and lens choice.
Schedule a cataract consultation at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center to help you understand your options.
In this Sonoran Living interview, John Davidson, MD, discusses these concerns and how lens selection connects with your lifestyle.
Do Cataracts Have to Be Fully Developed Before Surgery?
You do not need to wait until you experience real vision loss before discussing cataract surgery with your doctor.
For example, you may still read an eye chart reasonably well but struggle with glare when driving at night. Your doctor considers these difficulties alongside your examination results when helping you decide when to have cataract surgery.
If symptoms are mild, an updated glasses prescription or better lighting may help for a while. If those changes no longer meet your needs, it may be time to discuss surgery. An evaluation gives you information without committing you to a procedure.
Is Cataract Surgery Painful?
Understanding how your team keeps you comfortable can help ease concerns about having eye surgery.
During Cataract Surgery
Your team uses numbing medicine to keep your eye comfortable. Most adults remain awake, and medication may help you relax. You might notice lights, movement, or pressure, but significant pain is not expected. Let the team know if you feel uncomfortable so they can respond.
After Cataract Surgery
Your eye may feel scratchy, watery, or sensitive to light during early healing. Mild discomfort should generally improve. Many people notice clearer vision within a few days, but your eye continues healing after that early improvement. Complete healing can take around eight weeks.
You will need someone to drive you home after surgery. At home, use prescribed drops and any protective shield as directed. Keep your follow-up appointments, even if you feel well, so your doctor can check your healing.
Returning to work, driving, swimming, and exercise may happen at different times. Your surgeon will explain which activities you can resume and which you need to wait on.
Severe or worsening pain, decreased vision, increasing redness, or new flashes or floaters need prompt attention. Contact your surgical team immediately rather than waiting for a scheduled follow-up.
Learn more > Cataract surgery recovery
Will I Need Glasses After Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery replaces your cloudy natural lens with an artificial lens. The type of replacement lens helps determine how you see afterward.
A basic monofocal lens focuses at one main distance. If your surgeon targets distance vision, you will often need reading glasses for close work. Other cataract lens options, such as the Light Adjustable Lens, may significantly reduce dependence on glasses for more activities.
Your eye doctor checks for other eye conditions that could affect your results. That helps explain why recommendations may differ from a friend’s.
Discuss the tasks that matter to you, including reading, computer work, and nighttime driving. Your surgeon can explain what each suitable lens may offer and where glasses could still help.
Where the Light Adjustable Lens Fits
Dr. Davidson discusses the Light Adjustable Lens, which allows your doctor to adjust its focusing power after surgery using controlled ultraviolet light treatments.
Adjustments require additional appointments, followed by light treatments that lock in the lens prescription. Patients must wear prescribed UV-protective glasses during all waking hours until 24 hours after the final lock-in treatment. Your doctor can help you decide whether this lens suits your eye health and your schedule.
Can Cataracts Come Back After Surgery?
Once your surgeon removes the cloudy natural lens, that cataract cannot return. However, the thin capsule holding your replacement lens can become cloudy months or years later.
This condition is posterior capsule opacification, or PCO. People sometimes call it a secondary cataract, although the original cataract has not grown back. If PCO affects your vision, a YAG laser capsulotomy creates an opening in the cloudy capsule. The replacement lens stays in place. Your doctor first examines your eye to determine the cause of the change in vision.
Choose a Cataract Surgery Plan That Fits Your Life
Your consultation is a chance to ask questions, discuss concerns, and understand which options are best for your eyes. You can also talk about your expectations for glasses and the appointments you will need afterward.
Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center can help you understand your cataracts and explore suitable treatment options. Schedule your cataract consultation to discuss surgery timing and lens choices.