Possible Benefits of Cataract Surgery
Most people develop a cataract as they age. Cataract surgery is indicated when you feel your day to day activities are limited due to poor quality vision. Many patients notice trouble with driving initially when a cataract begins to interfere with their vision. You may notice improvements in some of the common symptoms of cataracts listed below:
- to improve the quality of your vision
- to decrease halos
- to decrease glare
- to decrease light sensitivity
- to improve contrast sensitivity
- to improve night vision
- to make images brighter/less dull
- to decrease dependence on glasses
Risks of Cataract Surgery
In general, cataract surgery is a relatively low risk surgery to your overall health. Most patients have successful cataract surgery with no complications. No surgery is free of possible risks. The possible risks of cataract surgery are primarily within the eye. These risks include but are not limited to the items listed below.
- risk of an eye infection
- risk of needing a second operation to completely remove the cataract, possibly performed by the cataract surgery or possible performed by a retinal surgeon
- risk of swelling in the central vision (cystoid macular edema)
- risk of swelling of the cornea that may be persistent
- risk of a retinal detachment
- risk of a leaky wound
- risk of blindness (rare)
- risk of needing to exchange the lens implant
- risk of needing glasses for distance, intermediate and near activities after surgery
- risk of halos and trouble driving at night especially if certain implants are used
- risk of difficulty tolerating the difference in the glasses prescription between the two eyes, especially if surgery is intended on only one eye
I will have a lengthy discussion with you regarding the potential risk and benefits of your cataract operation. I will spend the time necessary to answer all of your questions. You will need to sign an informed consent prior to your cataract surgery.
If you have additional questions or concerns about the risks and benefits of cataract surgery feel free to leave a comment.
Alaina Kronenberg, M.D.
Cataract Specialist
Comprehensive Ophthalmologist
Dearborn, Michigan 48126