Cataract

When should I have cataract surgery?

The right time is when the cataract interferes with things you need or want to do, such as driving, reading, working or moving about safely, and glasses no longer help enough. There is no need to wait for the cataract to be dense. Sometimes surgery is advised sooner, for example when the cataract is blocking treatment of the retina.

Questions worth asking yourself

  • Do I avoid driving at night because of glare?
  • Is reading, sewing, cooking or using a phone becoming difficult even with good light?
  • Have I stopped doing something I enjoy because of my sight?
  • Do I feel less steady on stairs or uneven ground?
  • Has a new pair of glasses failed to make much difference?

Reasons surgery may be advised earlier

  • The cataract prevents a clear view of the retina needed to monitor or treat diabetes or glaucoma
  • The cataract is contributing to raised eye pressure
  • A large difference between the two eyes is causing difficulty with balance or depth judgement
  • The cataract is very dense, which makes surgery more complex if left longer

Choosing not to have surgery yet

Delaying is reasonable if your vision still meets your needs. Cataract does not damage the eye by being present, although very advanced cataract can cause complications and is harder to operate on. Updating your glasses and improving lighting can help in the meantime, and you can be reviewed at intervals.

Surgery is an operation with real though uncommon risks, so the decision belongs to you after the benefits and risks for your own eyes have been explained.

Frequently asked questions

Can both eyes be done at once?
Usually the eyes are operated on separately, a short interval apart, so that one eye is healing while the other still provides vision. Your surgeon will advise on timing.
Which eye is done first?
Normally the eye with the poorer vision, unless there is a clinical reason to do otherwise.

Concerned about these symptoms?

Arrange an eye examination with our consultant ophthalmologist in Garki, Abuja.

Book an eye examination Call the hospital

Care at Standard Eye

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