Lens replacement surgery can be suitable if you have diabetes, particularly when cataracts affect daily life, but sugar control and retinal health must be carefully reviewed.
When surgery is appropriate
Many people with well-controlled diabetes have successful lens surgery. Clearer vision can help manage diabetes by making tasks like reading medication labels and monitoring blood glucose easier.
- Stable blood sugar and good general health reduce complication risks
- Diabetic retinopathy is assessed and treated where possible before surgery
- Surgery timing may be coordinated with retinal injection schedules
- Standard lens choices are often suitable when macular health is good
- Regular check-ups continue for both eye and systemic health
Extra precautions for people with diabetes
Diabetes can slow healing and increase infection risk. Your team will plan additional monitoring and aftercare to protect your eyes.
- Pre-operative medical review may be needed for insulin or tablet adjustments
- Post-operative inflammation or macular swelling is watched for closely
- Strict drop use and good hygiene reduce infection risk
- Ongoing diabetic eye screening remains essential after surgery
- Honest discussion about how retinopathy might limit vision is important
