5 Key Aspects to Consider Before Having Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is a common and safe procedure that can greatly improve a person's vision. However, as with any surgical procedure, it’s important to carefully consider all aspects of the surgery before making a decision. 

At Whetstone Eye Care in Naples, we co-manage the care of our patients with cataracts, along with a trusted eye surgeon. 

Here are 5 things to discuss with your eye doctor when considering the procedure:

1. Timing

Eye doctors recommend that you wait until the cataract has progressed to the point where it’s affecting your daily activities and causing significant vision loss. However, if the cataract is already causing significant glare, or halos at night, or is rapidly progressing, surgery may be recommended sooner.

2. Type of surgery

There are different types of cataract surgery, including traditional phacoemulsification, laser-assisted cataract surgery, and manual small incision cataract surgery. 

Each type of surgery has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are important to discuss with your eye doctor. 

3. Intraocular lens (IOL) options

After removing your cloudy natural lens during surgery, your eye doctor will replace it with an intraocular lens (IOL). There are several different types of IOLs, including monofocal, multifocal, and toric. 

Monofocal IOLs offer good distance vision but may require glasses for reading, while multifocal and toric IOLs can reduce or remove the need for glasses after surgery entirely.

4. Risks and complications

Although considered very low risk, cataract surgery does have some potential side effects and complications.  

These can include infection, bleeding, and retinal detachment. You can discuss these risks with your eye doctor. 

5. Cost

Cataract surgery can be expensive, and the cost can vary depending on the type of surgery, the type of IOL used, and the location of the surgery. 

Discuss the cost with your eye surgeon and check with your insurance provider to understand what’s covered and what isn’t so there are no unpleasant surprises. 

Get Cataract Surgery in Naples

Cataract surgery can improve your vision and quality of life, and the more you know ahead of time, the better.  

At Whetstone Eye Care in Naples, we diagnose and monitor cataracts prior to cataract surgery, and ensure that your eyes heal following surgery. To learn more about how we co-manage care, call us today. 

Frequently Asked Questions with Dr. Ray C. Whetstone

Q: Does cataract surgery get rid of floaters?

A: Cataract surgery will not remove floaters. In fact, it can temporarily increase the number of floaters you perceive. If you're experiencing floaters that affect your vision or a sudden increase or onset of floaters, consult with your eye doctor.

Q: What will happen if cataracts are left untreated?

A: Cataracts, if not treated, can worsen, leading to partial vision loss and even blindness. In fact, cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide.