facebook

When should I have cataract surgery?

< 1 min read

Cataract surgery is usually recommended when lens clouding interferes with everyday tasks rather than at a specific vision level alone. The decision is based on both clinical findings and how symptoms affect quality of life.

Functional Indicators

Struggling to drive safely, read, work, or carry out hobbies despite updated glasses suggests cataracts are becoming significant. Increased glare at night or difficulty with fine detail are common reasons to proceed.

  • Vision does not need to be extremely poor before surgery is considered
  • Both eyes may be treated in sequence if cataracts are bilateral
  • Other eye conditions may influence timing and expected outcomes

Clinical Considerations

The ophthalmologist assesses cataract density, overall eye health, and any coexisting diseases such as macular degeneration or glaucoma. These factors help predict the benefits and risks of surgery.

Discussion and Planning

Patients often find it helpful to review neutral guidance such as the Blue Fin Vision® blog article dos and don’ts after cataract surgery when considering the practical aspects of the procedure and recovery.