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General questions re. cataracts

Eye Conditions | Last Active: May 26 10:54pm | Replies (62)

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@sueinmn

Welcome to Mayo Connect. I took a quick look, and the person you are responding to made this post over 5 years ago, and may not be currently active here.
When you said "...that is why I'm sooooo frightened of having this done" were you referring to cataract surgery in general, or that particular implant?

Cataract surgery is generally very safe and effective with success rates between 96% with multi-focal lenses like the Restor, and 99% for standard lenses. Compared to the alternative, which is eventual blindness, this seems very safe to me.

Many of those who do have post-surgery issues can have them corrected with a very simple in-office procedure. My husband had a 5 minute laser procedure a few months after cataract surgery on one eye to clear up a little blurriness. The other went perfectly.

Also, keep in mind that the poster had their cataract surgery over 15 years ago - VERY early days for the multi-focal lenses. There are many more choices now, and surgeons can match lens choice to the patient's eye and preference.

Maybe you can do what I plan to do when I see the surgeon in May - discuss my options, including specific implants, then go home and research complication rates. (I already did this with my surgeon.)
Sue

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Replies to "Welcome to Mayo Connect. I took a quick look, and the person you are responding to..."

@ewatson201
I had cataract surgery this past July and October. It was spaced because of my travel plans. I have been with this opthamologist for many years. He has been keeping check on my cataract progression due to the medications that I am taking. I also have been treated for retinal vein occlusion that is now stable, but has damages the optical nerve in my left my eye. He said that he did not recommend any special lenses for me, and i trusted his judgement in my particular case. I am pleased with the procedure, his follow-up care, and the results. I do continue to wear corrective lenses.
I agree with Sue's plan to discuss with surgeon ahead of time. One thing that my opthamologist shared with me is that some doctors will refer patients to a surgeon who only sees the patient on the day of the cataract procedure. I know several friends who have done this and that is what would frighten me. I hope that will have a opthamologist who is going to discuss your procedure with you and provide the options that are going to nbe the best fit for you.