The only treatment for cataract is surgical removal. This is done when a person cannot see well enough with glasses to perform normal activities. For some people, changing glasses, getting stronger bifocals, or using a magnifying lens is helpful enough. Others choose to have cataract surgery.

If a cataract is not bothersome, then surgery is usually not necessary. Sometimes there is an additional eye problem that cannot be treated without first proceeding with cataract surgery.

Cataract surgery consists of removing the lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial lens. A cataract surgeon will discuss the options with the patient, and together they will decide which type of removal and lens replacement is best.

LENS REMOVAL:

There are 2 types of surgery that can be used to remove lenses that have a cataract.

Extracapsular surgery consists of surgically removing the lens, but leaving the back half of the capsule (the outer covering of the lens) intact. High-frequency sound waves (phacoemulsification) may be used to soften the lens to facilitate removal through a smaller incision.

Intracapsular surgery involves surgically removing the entire lens, including the capsule. Today this procedure is done very rarely.

LENS REPLACEMENT:

People who have cataract surgery are usually fitted with an artificial lens at the same time. The artificial lens is a synthetic disc called an intraocular lens. It is usually placed in the lens capsule inside the eye.

Other options include contact lenses and cataract glasses.

Surgery can be done in an outpatient center or hospital. Most people do not need to stay overnight in a hospital. The patient will need a friend or family member to assist with travel and home care after outpatient surgery. Follow-up care by the surgeon is important.

For most people, cataract surgery has a low risk of complications. With implanted artificial lenses, most people no longer need corrective lenses for distance vision. Glasses are usually necessary for reading.

Vision may not improve to 20/20 after cataract surgery if other eye diseases such as macular degeneration are present. Ophthalmologists can usually, but not always, determine this in advance.

In infants, amblyopia and decreased visual development may occur as a result of cataracts. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms such as progressive deterioration of vision, decreased night vision, or problems with glare.

Also call if you have a family history of congenital cataracts or if your child has symptoms or signs suggestive of a cataract.