Our Milwaukee Optometrist Answers Common Questions About Cataracts

Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s natural lens and they develop as a result of the aging process. They develop gradually and eventually cause vision to be blurry or distorted. Cataract removal surgery is the only way to get rid of cataracts, but we understand that the decision to proceed with cataract surgery can be a difficult one. Any sort of surgery – especially one involving our eyes – can be intimidating. Cataract surgery has evolved into a relatively routine procedure and is the most commonly performed surgery in the United States. Below are several questions we get on a regular basis from our patients.

Q: Are my cataracts “ripe” enough for surgery?
A: The term “ripe” originates in the mid 1950’s when a cataract was removed in one complete piece. Back then, it made sense for the cataract to “ripen” or become denser because it was easier to remove. Nowadays, the central part of the lens is removed from its natural capsule, so there is no need to wait for “ripening”.

Q: Can cataracts be prevented?
A: There are no proven methods to prevent cataracts. Reducing ultraviolet light exposure, smoking cessation, and eating a healthy diet may help delay cataract development.

Q: Does cataract surgery hurt?
A: No, there is little to no discomfort during the procedure. IV sedation is used to put patients into a “twilight” state. Patients are conscious during surgery but are very comfortable. Generally, some mild pressure is felt, but no pain. After surgery common symptoms include a dry scratchy feeling and occasionally a mild pressure or ache. These symptoms typically only last a few days.

Q: How will I know it is time to think about surgery?
A: The simple answer is whenever you feel that your vision is impacting your activities of daily life. Does the glare from oncoming headlights impede your comfort driving at night? Do you feel like you require a lot more direct light while reading? Do colors appear dimmer or less saturated than they used to? These are just some of the questions that your optometrist or ophthalmologist will discuss. The decision to move towards surgery is not based on visual acuity, but rather visual symptoms. As an added bonus, cataract surgery can help reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses! This is thanks to advanced IOL options that can correct nearsightedness or presbyopia. You can also take our cataract surgery candidacy quiz to get an idea of whether surgery may be right for you.

Q: How long after surgery can I go back to my normal routine?
A: Surgery itself is a relatively simple process that takes approximately 10 minutes to complete per eye. Most people are back to most of their routine activities the day after surgery. Generally, we ask our patients to limit heavy lifting (>25 pounds), strenuous exercise, and bending below the waist for the first post-operative week. These restrictions may vary case by case.

Q: Do cataracts come back after surgery?
A: No, once a cataract is removed, it cannot return. It is common to develop a secondary cataract after surgery in which scar tissue can develop over the back of the implanted lens. This is removed with a simple painless laser procedure.

Contact Summit Eye for Cataract Treatment

At Summit Eye Care, Dr. Vukich and I have helped many patients choose the best cataract treatment plan for them. We know you probably have a lot of questions and we are happy to explain all your options. Feel free to call our office or schedule an appointment.

Authored By: Nicholas Bruns, O.D.