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Inside Cataract Surgery

The first thing I did was learn everything I could about cataract surgery.*

*Inspired by real patients
*Inspired by real patients

What is a cataract?

A cataract can occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy due to age, trauma, a side effect of some medications, or if the cataract is present at birth.

Over time, as your cataract grows, your vision may become more and more cloudy. At some point, you and your eye doctor may consider cataract surgery to make your vision better.

A drawing of an eye that shows that a cataract covers the pupil, which is in the middle of the eye.

Use this interactive tool to see how cataract surgery can positively impact your vision

What is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is a very common procedure that involves the removal of the cloudy lens of the eye—the cataract—and its replacement with an artificial lens. This safe and effective operation can help improve your vision for the long term.

Cataract surgery is performed by a specially trained eye doctor called an ophthalmologist.

>50% of people over age 80 have had cataract surgery

Should I consider cataract surgery?

Take the cataract symptom quiz before you discuss cataract surgery with your eye doctor.

Question 1 of 5

Can I see well enough to do my normal activities?

Question 2 of 5

Is my blurry vision affecting my job?

Question 3 of 5

Do glare and difficulty seeing at night make it harder to drive my car?

Question 4 of 5

Is reading or watching TV more difficult than it used to be?

Question 5 of 5

Is my vision affecting my level of independence?

You can wait to have surgery until you and your eye doctor agree it’s the best time for you. But if your cloudy vision makes your life difficult, it may be time to consider cataract surgery.

If you’re ready to discuss cataract surgery, connect with a cataract surgeon near you.


Pros and cons of cataract surgery

PROS

  • The only way to remove a cataract is with surgery. The good thing is that cataract surgery is usually very successful and has helped many people see better.

  • Cataract surgery can help you see more clearly, experience less glare when looking at bright lights, and see colors better.

CONS

  • There are risks with any surgery, but problems following cataract surgery are uncommon and can often be treated.

Talk with your surgeon about the risks and benefits of cataract surgery.

Cataract Surgery Mythbuster

Only elderly people need cataract surgery.

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