Lens replacement surgery is not recommended when the risks outweigh the likely benefits, either because of eye health, general health, or expectations.
Ocular reasons to avoid or delay surgery
Certain eye conditions mean surgery might not improve vision or could cause harm. In these cases, alternative treatments or careful monitoring may be safer.
- Advanced macular degeneration or serious central retinal scarring
- Uncontrolled glaucoma with significant visual field loss
- Active eye inflammation, infection, or severe untreated dry eye
- Very unstable prescription or rapidly changing vision without clear cause
- Corneal ectasia or major irregularity that prevents accurate measurements
General health and expectation factors
Sometimes the way a person feels about surgery, or their overall health, makes elective lens replacement inappropriate.
- Serious medical conditions that make anaesthesia unsafe without strong need
- Inability to lie flat or cooperate during the procedure
- Unrealistic desire for perfect, glasses-free vision with no risk
- Happy, clear vision with current glasses and minimal cataract change
- Reluctance to attend follow-up appointments or use drops as prescribed
