If you are living with cataracts, you may be debating whether or not to have surgery, and if so, when? Deciding to have any surgery is a very personal choice, one that should be discussed both with your physician and those close to you. That said, there are some basic guidelines that can help you decide if the time is right for you.

First of all, you should know that surgery is the only effective treatment for cataracts, and cataracts get progressively worse over time. They will not halt or improve. Eventually, you will either need to have surgery or your cataracts will rob you completely of your vision.

The best indicator of the right time for cataract surgery is the impact cataracts have on your quality of life. Early on, cataracts may have little effect on your ability to read, drive, watch TV or see people’s faces. If you are able to live and function comfortably with little interruption due to your cataracts, surgery can likely wait.

Over time, however, the clouding, discoloration and other symptoms of cataracts will prevent you from enjoying many daily activities. As a result, some cataract sufferers become quite isolated. Unchecked, this can lead to additional medical and psychological problems; so don’t let things get to that point. As soon as you recognize your quality of life is suffering, contact your eye physician.

Another factor to consider in timing your cataract surgery is access to support during recovery. Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure, and today’s laser-assisted cataract surgeries require far less recover time. Still, you will at minimum need someone to drive you home from the surgery center. Beyond that, some patients may need minor assistance with daily activities for a day or two following surgery. If you don’t have family members or friends to fill this role, securing the short-term service of an in-home health aide may be a wise choice.

If you suspect that you or someone you love may have cataracts, or if you were previously diagnosed and think now may be the right time for surgery, we would love to hear from you. Dr. Gregory Snodgrass has performed more than 20,000 successful cataract surgeries, and was the area’s first ophthalmologist to use the LenSx laser cataract system. 

Call us today at 352-373-4300 to schedule an appointment.