When to Have Cataract Surgery

If you have a cataract and are puzzled about when is the best time to have surgery, Elmquist Eye Group can help.

Dr. Yasaira Rodriguez, MD is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and specializes in premium cataract surgery, LASIK, eyelid surgery, and in-office procedures.

When to Have Cataract SurgeryThe Elmquist Eye Group team has provided exceptional cataract care to the residents of Southwest Florida for more than 25 years and is pleased to offer the revolutionary bladeless laser-assisted cataract procedure and the latest advancements in intraocular lens technology.

Think You May Have a Cataract?

If you have trouble reading, seeing in the distance, or difficulty with night vision, you may have a cataract. Other symptoms include:

  • Cloudy, blurred or dim vision
  • More difficulty seeing at night or in low light
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Halos and glare from lights
  • Colors look faded or yellowed
  • Needing brighter light for reading and other activities
  • Frequent eyeglass prescription changes
  • Double vision in one eye

If you do have a cataract, you are definitely not alone. Cataracts are an inevitable part of the aging process, and over half of all Americans aged 65 and older have at least one. They can take years to fully form and, if left untreated, can result in blindness. But modern cataract surgery can improve your vision to what it was before cataracts.

When Should You Have Cataract Surgery?

Surgery is the only way your ophthalmologist can remove a cataract.

Although the idea of surgery can be intimidating, the procedure is the most common elective surgery among Medicare beneficiaries in the United States, and one of the safest. Multiple studies have shown that cataract surgery can improve quality of life and reduce the risk of falls and car crashes.

If your symptoms are mild and the cataract has not progressed, changing your eyeglass prescription and incorporating brighter lights in your home may be all it takes for you to function comfortably until the cataract really starts to bother you.

If you’re unable to safely drive at night, need clear vision for work, driving or hobbies like reading, cooking or sewing, or experience too much glare to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities, such as golfing, skiing or surfing, it could be time to have the cataract removed. Dr. Rodriguez will help you decide.

For answers to your questions about when to have cataract surgery, get in touch with Elmquist Eye Group today at (239) 936-2020 and schedule an appointment. The Elmquist team will be delighted to help.