What Age is the Best for Refractive Cataract Surgery?

Cataracts are an eye condition that affects individuals over 40. The most common cause of cataracts is aging, but trauma or medical conditions can also lead to cloudy or obscured vision. Refractive cataract surgery is usually the best option for seeing clearly again in Birmingham, AL.

There has been debate about the best age to have refractive surgery. While some opt for early intervention, others delay their procedure until a more convenient time. Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Young H. Choi explores this topic so readers can make an informed decision.

Refractive cataract surgery is proven to be effective in addressing cataracts in addition to refractive errors, like nearsightedness and farsightedness. If you want to experience a high quality of life through surgery, call Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center for a cataract assessment. We can address your questions and concerns.

What does refractive cataract surgery involve?

Cataracts cause the lens in our eyes to become cloudy, which makes it difficult to see clearly. Blurry or cloudy vision can impact your daily activities and make it difficult to read, drive, play sports, and watch TV. There's no way to treat cataracts on your own, and most people need surgery to address the issue.

Refractive cataract surgery involves removing the natural lens in your eye and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) designed to restore your vision. The IOL is chosen based on your specific vision needs and requirements.

Who should have refractive cataract surgery?

Not all patients are great candidates for refractive surgery or cataract removal in Birmingham. Ideal candidates have been diagnosed with cataracts and want to treat common refractive errors at the same time. A refractive error that's too mild or too severe may not be able to be corrected, which we can confirm during a consultation. It's also important to let us know about any other eye conditions or diseases that may impact your results.

What age can I get refractive cataract surgery?

There is no single recommended age to get refractive cataract surgery. Cataracts normally develop after age 40, and some people elect for early intervention to restore their vision sooner.

Patients can also delay their procedure until they're in a more convenient place in life. So, if you have a pressing health condition that needs your attention, you may want to wait until you receive proper care. A board-certified ophthalmologist can help you weigh the benefits and risks of waiting. Keep in mind that waiting too long for cataract removal could lead to total blindness.

Most refractive cataract procedures are performed after the age of 60, but this is not a strict requirement. Patients are the best judge of when they should have refractive surgery. Our professionals at Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center can recommend the best course of action if you're still unsure.

Treat cloudy vision and improve your eyesight

If your vision has been compromised, then you may want to consider this procedure now as a way to address cloudy vision. Give Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center a call if you're ready to find out about our cataract removal options near Birmingham, AL. Dr. Young H. Choi can ensure you see clearly again.