Here are our top cataract questions and answers about symptoms like cloudy vision, difficulty seeing at night, light sensitivity, or excessive glare. In that case, it’s essential to know that left untreated, a cataract typically worsens over time and impairs eyesight in the affected eye. Cataract surgery is a popular treatment for cataracts, a condition that clouds the eye’s lens.
If you think you have a cataract or have been diagnosed with this condition, you probably have many questions about cataract treatment. Questions like “How long is cataract surgery?” and “How much does cataract surgery cost?”
Arming yourself with information can prepare you to get the best surgical outcome. So here are answers to 31 frequently asked questions about cataract surgery.
1. What exactly is a cataract?
A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which sits behind the iris and helps focus light onto the retina. This cloudiness can blur vision and make colors appear faded.
2. What causes cataracts?
Cataracts typically develop due to aging. Other causes include genetics, eye injuries, prolonged UV exposure, smoking, diabetes, and certain medications like steroids.
3. Can cataracts be prevented?
While you can’t completely prevent cataracts, you can reduce risk by wearing UV-protective sunglasses, maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, avoiding smoking, and managing health conditions like diabetes.
4. Are cataracts painful?
No. Cataracts develop slowly and usually cause no pain or discomfort. Symptoms mainly affect vision.
5. How do I know if I have cataracts?
Early signs include blurry or cloudy vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light and glare, seeing halos around lights, and fading colors.
6. Can cataracts cause blindness?
If left untreated, cataracts can cause severe vision loss and even blindness.
7. Is cataract surgery safe?
Yes. Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest surgeries performed worldwide, with a high success rate.
8. When should I have cataract surgery?
Your eye doctor will recommend surgery when cataracts interfere with your daily activities, such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces.
9. Can cataracts be reversed without surgery?
Currently, no medications or eye drops can reverse cataracts. Surgery remains the only effective treatment to restore clear vision.
10. What happens during cataract surgery?
The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure is usually quick and done on an outpatient basis.
11. How long does cataract surgery take?
Typically, cataract surgery takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
12. Will I need glasses after cataract surgery?
Many people see well after surgery without glasses, especially for distance vision. However, depending on the type of IOL used, some still need glasses for reading or other tasks.
13. Are there different types of intraocular lenses?
Yes. Options for correcting astigmatism include monofocal (single-focus), multifocal, and toric lenses. Your doctor can help you decide which is best for your vision needs.
14. What are the risks of cataract surgery?
The risks are low, but they can include infection, bleeding, swelling, retinal detachment, or vision loss. Most complications are rare and treatable.
15. How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?
Most patients notice improved vision within a few days, but complete healing can take 4 to 6 weeks.
16. Can cataracts come back after surgery?
No, the natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial one. However, some people develop a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which can be treated easily with a laser procedure.
17. How should I prepare for cataract surgery?
Your doctor may advise stopping certain medications, arranging transportation for the day of surgery, and following fasting instructions if necessary.
18. Can lifestyle changes slow cataract progression?
Healthy habits like eating fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, avoiding smoking, protecting eyes from UV light, and managing health conditions may help slow progression, but won’t stop or reverse cataracts.
19. Are cataracts hereditary?
Genetics can play a role, so if your family has a history of cataracts, your risk may be higher.
20. Where can I get help if I suspect I have cataracts?
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Early diagnosis helps you manage symptoms and plan timely treatment.
Set Yourself Up For Success
Your success with cataract surgery will depend on several factors, including educating yourself and committing to following your doctor’s instructions before, during, and after surgery. A team of highly qualified professionals, including an ophthalmologist specializing in managing visual impairments, is also essential to surgical success.
Our surgeons specialize in specific procedures, such as cataract surgery. They know the latest medical techniques and can access up-to-date equipment and operating suites.
Use our online scheduler to schedule your cataract appointment today. If you have questions about cataracts or cataract surgery, call (915)-267-2020 or visit the closest eye center to learn more about our ophthalmologists and eye care team.