Nearly 10 million people around the world have cataract surgery each year. Surgery is the only way to correct the vision loss that inevitably results from cataracts, and it’s proven to be one of the safest surgical procedures available. Still, cataract surgery isn’t always necessary the moment you’re diagnosed.

Developing cataracts may initially have little effect on your vision, allowing you to function comfortably with the condition in the short-term. Over time, however, cataracts always get worse. This progression may take months or perhaps years, depending on how early you’re diagnosed and how rapidly your cataracts develop. Eventually, cataracts will rob you of your vision entirely.

A general rule of thumb is that people seek cataract surgery when they experience disruption in their quality of life or significant vision loss. If you're able to read, watch television and read road signs with ease, there's a good chance that you can hold off on surgery.

Issues mainly arise when cataract symptoms progress to the point of:

• Discoloration, which impacts your quality of life and ability to see vivid colors
• The cloudiness of the eye leads to difficulty seeing and enjoying daily life tasks, such as reading or seeing someone's face

When quality of life suffers or you can no longer enjoy work, activities or hobbies because of cataracts, it's an excellent time to consider surgical treatment. An ophthalmologist who specializes in cataract treatment can also help you determine when moving forward with cataract surgery is the best solution for you.

And, with recent advancements in cataract surgery, including laser-assisted cataract surgical options, the entire procedure is pain-free, and many patients see clearly almost immediately. Plus, recovery side effects are limited, allowing most patients to fully return to their normal activities in a just matter of days.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with cataracts, contact North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300 to schedule your cataract surgery consultation.