Cataract Surgery: When and Why Should It Be Done?

Healthy eye lenses should be clear and able to refract incoming light well, allowing us to see clearly. However, cataracts can cause this organ to become cloudy and vision to become blurry. If this disturbance hinders activities, cataract surgery is needed to address it. The procedure involves removing the eye lens, and in most cases, replacing it with an artificial lens.

In the early stages, cataracts are characterized by cloudy eye lenses, resulting in gradually blurred vision. At this stage, cataracts can usually be managed with the use of glasses. Over time, the cloudiness in the eye lens will continue to worsen and spread until it affects the entire lens, making it increasingly difficult for the individual to see clearly. Typically, patients will experience fluctuating eyeglass prescriptions. When the condition reaches this point, the doctor will decide to take cataract surgery action.

In more detail, here are some conditions that strongly justify why you are advised to undergo cataract surgery promptly:

• The degree of cloudiness in the lens becomes increasingly severe, significantly disrupting daily activities and reducing quality of life.
• Doctors have difficulty examining the retina located at the back of the eye to diagnose abnormalities in the retina and for the management of retinal disorders such as diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration.
• If other complications arise in the eye due to mature cataracts, causing increased intraocular pressure.

Cataract surgery is highly recommended to be done as soon as possible. However, the decision to undergo cataract surgery is based on medical considerations by the doctor and also the patient's needs. An eye specialist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's eye condition before deciding on the surgical procedure.

Although cataracts cannot be completely prevented, they can be managed effectively if treated properly. The other benefits of cataract surgery include:

1. Improving Vision

   When cataracts obstruct vision, many aspects of life become uncontrollable. Vision becomes blurred and unclear. This condition prevents you from performing activities as usual, such as driving, reading, exercising, and more. The good news is, cataract patients will gain clearer vision and enjoy life more after undergoing cataract surgery.

2. Preventing Injuries

   Unclear vision, especially for the elderly, poses a risk of injury. Elderly individuals wearing bifocal or multifocal glasses may reduce contrast sensitivity and depth perception, leading to stumbling on stairs or sidewalks. After cataract surgery, most people no longer need multifocal lenses. Some studies show that cataract removal can reduce the risk of falls.

3. Preventing Dementia

   The relationship between vision and dementia has become a focus of recent research. Quoting the American Academy of Ophthalmology, cataract removal reduces the risk of dementia. This study involved over 3,000 older adults with cataracts and glaucoma for 24 years. The results showed that those who underwent cataract surgery were nearly 30% less likely to develop dementia, even after adjusting for education level, health history, race, and access to medical services.

4. Protecting Eye Health

   Aging makes a person's health vulnerable, including the eyes. Eyes, which function to see, can be affected by various problems, including cataracts. It is not impossible for cataract patients to have a risk of other eye disorders. That is why many who have one disease may develop another. Therefore, surgery performed to remove cataracts can prevent various complications and protect your vision.

Cataract surgery is performed safely and proven to be effective. The process is efficient because after the surgery, you can go home without the need for hospitalization. Make sure to follow the doctor's advice and undergo post-cataract surgery care to accelerate the healing process.

If you or your family members have complaints related to blurry and worsening vision over time, it is advisable to consult with a doctor whether cataract surgery is necessary or not. You can also visit IHH Healthcare Malaysia to get proper treatment.