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November 13, 2025
Over time, cataracts gradually worsen, which can interfere with everyday activities like reading, driving, or using digital devices. According to the National Eye Institute at the National Institutes of Health, more than half of all Americans age 80 or older either have cataracts or have had surgery to remove them.*
When evaluating a patient for cataracts, your surgeon will examine several key factors:
Surgeons assess whether the cataract is mild, moderate, or advanced. The severity helps determine whether surgery is necessary immediately or if the cataract can be monitored for a period of time.
Your eye surgeon will check for additional conditions such as glaucoma, retinal problems, or corneal irregularities. These factors can impact both the safety and outcomes of cataract surgery.
Surgeons consider your desired visual outcome. Some patients may prioritize reading vision, distance vision, or reducing dependence on glasses. This helps determine the most appropriate type of lens implant (IOL) to meet your needs.
Accurate measurements of the eye and lens are critical for selecting the proper intraocular lens. This ensures optimal vision correction after cataract surgery.
Your surgeon will review your vision history to ensure your prescription is stable. Sudden changes in vision may indicate cataract progression and help determine the timing of surgery.
Cataract surgery removes the cloudy natural lens and replaces it with a prosthetic intraocular lens (IOL). Modern IOLs can correct refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Many patients find that cataract surgery significantly improves vision, sometimes reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Your eye surgeon will determine the optimal time for cataract surgery based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and eye health. Surgery is typically recommended when cataracts begin to interfere with daily activities, but your surgeon will personalize the timing to your unique situation.
While aging is the most common cause, regular eye exams, protecting your eyes from UV light, and managing health conditions like diabetes may help slow progression.
Yes. Modern IOLs can address many refractive errors, often reducing the need for glasses or contacts after surgery.
Most patients notice clearer vision within a few days, but full healing may take several weeks. Your surgeon will provide guidance on recovery and follow-up care.
Understanding what your eye surgeon will evaluate helps ensure the safest and most effective approach to improving your vision. At OOMC, our team provides thorough cataract assessments and personalized recommendations to help you see your world more clearly. Schedule your appointment today.
*Source: National Institutes of Health
