Cataract surgery is recommended when lens clouding is noticeably affecting daily life, safety, or independence and the eye is otherwise healthy enough to benefit.
Common triggers for recommending surgery
Function rather than vision‑chart numbers usually guides timing.
- Difficulty with driving, especially at night or in poor weather
- Problems reading, watching television, or doing near work despite new glasses
- Glare, halos, or colour changes that interfere with routine tasks
- Loss of confidence walking outdoors, on stairs, or in unfamiliar places
- Cataracts visible on examination that match your symptoms
Other reasons surgery may be advised
Sometimes cataract removal supports wider eye care.
- Need for clear media to treat or monitor retinal or glaucoma disease
- Significant difference in prescription between the two eyes
- Rapid progression of lens opacity over successive visits
- Desire to maintain employment or driving privileges
- Informed decision after discussing risks, benefits, and alternatives
