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CATARACT SURGERY CONSIDERATIONS

Common Risks

Following cataract surgery with an intraocular lens implant, it may be necessary to reposition the lens or have it removed surgically. It is also possible that, as a result of the surgery, your vision could worsen. In some cases, complications may occur weeks, months, or even years later.

Complications may include, but are not limited to:

hemorrhage (bleeding), retinal edema, loss of corneal clarity (cloudy vision), infection, uveitis, iris atrophy, glaucoma, double vision, ptosis (eyelid drooping), inability to dilate the pupil, dislocation of the lens, and retinal detachment. Some complications may be permanent and not treatable. Some complications may require additional treatment.

It is estimated that you have a 97-98% chance of an excellent surgical result and a 1% chance of achieving no improvement and/or worse vision.

As with any surgery, certain complications may result from the use of any anesthetic medications including respiratory problems, drug reactions, paralysis, brain damage or even death.

Problems After Surgery

Problems after surgery are rare, but they can occur. As with any surgery, there are risks associated with cataract surgery, and complications (such as bleeding, infection, dry eyes, corneal decompensation, macular swelling, loss of vision, inflammation, light flashes and/or retinal detachment.) can occur during or after surgery in spite of the best care. It is impossible to predict in which patients these complications will occur.

Fortunately, the risk of these complications is quite low. With prompt medical attention, these many of these problems usually can be treated successfully.

Insurance

Most medical insurance plans will cover cataract surgery however; it will be important for us to check with your insurance company regarding the benefits of your particular policy.

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