Will You Still Need Glasses After Refractive Cataract Surgery?

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in your eye, which often leads to hazy vision. While some cataracts are hereditary, most cases are caused by natural aging. Patients in the Birmingham, AL area who experience cataracts in addition to nearsighted or farsighted vision may be candidates for refractive cataract surgery.

So, what is refractive cataract surgery? And do you still need glasses after cataract surgery? If you have questions or concerns about your cataracts diagnosis, contact Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center for a consultation. Dr. Young H. Choi can greatly reduce your need for corrective lenses, like eyeglasses or contacts.

What is refractive cataract surgery?

Traditional cataract surgery replaces your cataract-affected lens with an artificial one. While cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures worldwide, not all procedures are the same. In addition to treating cataracts, refractive cataract surgery also corrects refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Ideal candidates for this procedure have been diagnosed with cataracts and want to reduce their dependency on visual aids.

Choosing the right lens for you

At Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center, our primary goal is to help patients achieve the best vision possible. This is why the first step in our process is to complete a comprehensive examination. During this appointment, we will determine the severity of your cataracts. We also perform a vision test and ask about your health history. Following testing, our professionals customize a treatment plan tailored to your needs. This includes the use of premium interocular lenses (IOLs) to improve your overall eyesight. We can discuss your cataract lens options during your appointment.

Wearing glasses after cataract surgery

While refractive cataract surgery can greatly reduce your use of glasses or contact lenses, you may still require visual aids following your procedure. This is because everyone responds to surgery differently, depending on their age and eyesight. When you meet with Dr. Choi at his office near Birmingham, AL, we can let you know what to expect in terms of vision correction. You may only need glasses after cataract surgery for simple tasks, such as reading.

How to take care of your eyes after refractive cataract surgery

Recovery from refractive cataract surgery is minimal, but it is still important to follow all instructions as directed. Skipping over these steps could lead to complications that affect your outcome. Directly after surgery, you will not be able to drive, so make sure you have organized transportation beforehand. You may experience some discomfort, but be careful not to rub or press down on your eyes. We schedule follow-up appointments 1 – 2 days after surgery so we can check on your progress.

Learn about your cataract lens options

Refractive cataract surgery offers patients a whole new world of improved vision beyond basic cataracts procedures. Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center is proud to offer the latest in innovative technology and techniques to patients near Birmingham, AL. Dr. Young H. Choi can provide a wide variety of cataract lens options to make sure you obtain your best vision possible. If you are concerned about your cataracts diagnosis and want to learn more about refractive procedures, contact our office for an evaluation.