By now, dear readers, you’ve participated in many conversations with us about cataracts. We’ve talked about the latest lenses, the role of lasers, questions to ask your eye surgeon, and whether cataracts can grow back.

In short, we’ve discussed the who, the what, and the why- but we haven’t touched on the when. 

Let’s fix that.

A quick primer

We’ve talked about the symptoms at length, but for those just joining us, let’s get you caught up. 

Cataracts form on the protein center of the lens of the eye, causing symptoms ranging from the seemingly harmless to the downright dangerous: 

• blurry vision
• problems reading
• excessive glare when driving at night
• glare from sunlight (or other light sources)
• double vision

Should you have cataracts surgery?

In a word, yes. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, they may be caused by something else. If they are cataracts, however, surgery is the only option. 

There is no medication or eye drop that can reverse the formation of cataracts. A new glasses prescription may improve your vision, but the only option for correcting the root problem is removing the natural lens of the eye- the one that’s clouded. 

That’s not to say that cataracts are necessary for everyone with cataracts. Some may exhibit no symptoms whatsoever, in which case surgery may not be necessary. For those who quality of life is impacted by poor vision caused by cataracts, though, it’s necessary to remove the cataract to restore vision.

When should you have cataracts surgery?

In the past, cataracts surgery wasn’t necessarily safe at all stages of the cataract’s development. As the technology has evolved, though, cataracts can now be safely removed at any stage, whether the cataract has just formed or it’s in an advanced stage. With the latest developments with premium intraocular lenses, it’s generally better to have your cataract surgery sooner allowing you to enjoy vision without dependence on eye glasses.

If it does reach an advanced stage, the cataract can be more difficult to remove because it typically hardens in the later stages. That’s why, if you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s better not to wait. Besides, who wants to go another day with problems driving, or reading, or simply seeing clearly?

Wrap-up

Advancements in modern cataracts surgery makes it completely unnecessary to wait for relief from cataracts. The advanced technology of the intraocular lens (IOL) combined with other advancements like the CATALYS® Precision Cataract Laser System means prmium cataract surgery is now faster, safer, and more painless than ever before. And when you’re in the hands of Orlando’s most trusted eye surgeon, Dr. Brian D. Haas, waiting just means less time spent living with crystal clear vision.