Why Some Cataract Patients Are Seeking Surgery Younger Submitted by Atlanta Vision Cataract and Laser Center on August 29, 2022
Cataract surgery has traditionally been a procedure geared toward patients in their 70s and 80s, though that number has changed a bit. Research by the Mayo Clinic finds that the average age for cataract surgery patients has been gradually (but steadily) dropping. At Atlanta Vision Laser and Cataract Center, we can confirm that we have treated patients in their 40s, 50s and 60s for this condition. Our ophthalmologists, Dr. Leonard Achiron and Dr. David O’Day, have written this blog to discuss why some patients seek treatment sooner than they might have in the past.
Cataracts Worsen with Time
While some patients take a “wait and see” approach to cataracts, cataracts only get worse as time goes on. Knowing that the cloudiness that comes from cataracts gets more severe and that cataract surgery is inevitable, patients may decide to have it sooner to experience life with better vision in the interim rather than simply waiting until the surgery is absolutely necessary.
Amazing IOL Options
For many patients, cataract surgery ends up being a two-in-one procedure. When the ophthalmologist replaces the eye’s natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL), it can include a prescription that helps the patient to overcome refractive errors like farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism. That means that in addition to making vision less blurry and hazy, premium IOLs can also reduce the patient’s need to wearg eyeglasses and contact lenses. For this reason, patients may be inclined to take care of their cataracts sooner than they might otherwise.
High Safety Standards
As technology and techniques have advanced, cataract surgery has only become safer. By using a laser instead of a scalpel, our ophthalmologists can more precisely replace the lens and perform a procedure with dramatically lower risk of complications. While it is understandable to want to avoid surgery until it is essential, with the kind of safety record currently available from this specific surgery, it can also make sense to pursue it sooner.
Improved Recovery
Not only do patients in their 50s and 60s get to reap the benefits of having cataract surgery for more of their lives, but the recovery from the surgery also tends to be significantly easier. With any surgery, a younger, healthier patient has an easier time healing.
Learn More about Cataract Surgery
No matter what age you are, if cataracts are impairing your vision, you are likely a great candidate for cataract surgery. To receive the best care for cataracts that the Atlanta area has to offer, schedule an appointment with Dr. Achiron or Dr. O’Day. You can reach us by filling out a request online or calling (404) 765-2020 directly.