How do we treat Cataracts?

• Glasses may initially help.
• No drops or tablets or laser procedures can remove cataracts.
• Surgery is the only treatment to remove cataracts.

When do I need to have cataract surgery?

• Timing for surgery depends on discussion with your surgeon and your individual needs.
• Most cataracts do not need surgery until:
  • Vision is below the legal driving standard or you are losing confidence in your driving ability.
  • Your vision loss is affecting your hobbies, sports and daily activities.
  • Glasses no longer help.

You may choose to do early cataract operation if:

• There is a reduction in spectacle dependency.
• The cataract is contributing to the risk of angle-closure glaucoma.

Cataract surgery can be urgent if the cataract causes:

• Angle-closure glaucoma.
• Lens-induced glaucoma.
• Vision poor enough to cause a fall risk.
• Additional retinal disease or damage.

What happens if cataracts are left untreated?

• Cataracts will continue to thicken and worsen over time.
• Your vision will become too poor to legally drive.
• Vision will eventually deteriorate to fit the definition of legal blindness.
• An increase in surgical difficulties and complications.
• May cause increased eye pressure and angle-closure glaucoma.