Posted by: Heart of America Eye Care in Belton, Cataract Surgery, Our Team, Overland Park, Physicians' Surgery Center, Shawnee Mission

Cataract surgery is considered one of the safest procedures in the world. It helps restore clear vision for countless people each year by replacing the cloudy lens of the eye with an artificial one. Patients can treat symptoms such as difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light, and faded colors.

While cataract surgery is highly effective, it’s important to recognize that, like any medical procedure, it comes with potential disadvantages and risks. These include infection, inflammation, posterior capsular opacification (PCO), and retinal detachment.

If you’re considering cataract surgery, understanding these risks and how they are managed can help you make an informed decision. At Heart of America Eye Care near the Kansas City, KS metropolitan area, we’re dedicated to providing the information you need to feel confident about your upcoming procedure. Call now to book a consultation with our team.

Understanding cataract surgery

A cataract forms when proteins in the natural lens of your eye break down and clump together, creating cloudy vision. This makes it harder to see clearly, especially in low light, and can cause issues like faded colors or difficulty seeing at night. Sensitivity to light can also be a problem. During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is carefully removed and replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL).

While this procedure can significantly improve vision, patients should know what to expect after cataract removal surgery and weigh the potential disadvantages with a trained ophthalmologist.

The possible disadvantages of cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is known for having a high success rate, but understanding the potential downsides can help you be prepared:

  • Infection: Though rare, there is a small risk of developing an infection after cataract surgery. This can occur if harmful bacteria enter the eye. Our trained team can prescribe antibiotic eye drops after your procedure to reduce this risk.
  • Inflammation: Mild inflammation or swelling is a common side effect of cataract surgery. However, it usually resolves with medications such as anti-inflammatory eye drops. We can provide this prescription to make recovery as comfortable as possible.
  • Posterior capsular opacification (PCO): Posterior capsular opacification is also known as a “secondary cataract.” This happens when the lens capsule becomes cloudy again over time. Luckily, PCO is treatable with a quick, virtually painless laser procedure.
  • Retinal detachment: Retinal detachment is a serious but rare complication of cataract surgery. It occurs when the retina at the back of the eye pulls back from its normal position, which can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly. Our staff can provide more information about how we mitigate this risk during a consultation.

What to expect after cataract removal surgery

At Heart of America Eye Care near the Kansas City, KS, metropolitan area, we want people to know what to expect after cataract removal surgery. Knowing the process helps prepare you for what’s ahead and can put your mind at ease. Here’s a quick outline of what you may experience:

  • Blurry vision: It’s normal to have blurry or cloudy vision for a day or two after surgery as your eye transitions to the new lens.
  • Light sensitivity: Your eye may be more sensitive to bright light right after surgery, so wearing sunglasses is recommended.
  • Redness and mild discomfort: Some redness and slight discomfort are normal and typically resolve within a few days.

Discover the benefits of cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is a safe way to address cloudy vision, faded colors, sensitivity to light sources, and difficulty seeing at night. While there are potential downsides to consider, most disadvantages are rare or manageable with proper care.

At Heart of America Eye Care, near the Kansas City, KS, metropolitan area, we can walk you through each step of the process and answer questions you have. Schedule a consultation and take the first step toward clear, vibrant vision.