Is Cataract Surgery Safe? Yes! Find Out What Makes It So

If you’re over 55 and experiencing cloudy vision, you may be one of the 20.5 million Americans aged 40+ with cataracts. While the prospect of eye surgery can be daunting, cataract surgery is safe, and is one of the most commonly performed procedures in the United States, at 3.7 million per year. But, even with this knowledge, it’s normal to still feel worried about it, which is why we’re going to explore cataract’s safety profile from success rates and cutting-edge advancements, all the way to how you can ensure a safe cataract surgery experience.

What Is Cataract Surgery’s Success Rate?

Cataract surgery is widely recognized as one of the safest, most effective, and precise outpatient procedures in the world, with a success rate of over 98%. While knowing this statistic might make you feel more confident in the reliability of this vision-restoring treatment, it’s also important to understand why cataract surgery is considered a safe procedure.

Why Is Cataract Surgery Safe? Tech Breakthroughs & Improved Surgical Techniques

The reason why cataract surgery is safe lies in its remarkable advancements over the years. These improvements are driven by cutting-edge tech and refined surgical techniques that minimize risks, enhance accuracy, and promise faster recovery.

Tech Breakthroughs

Modern technology has revolutionized cataract surgery, making it safer and more efficient than ever.

• Femtosecond Laser Technology. This advanced laser system allows for bladeless surgery by creating precise incisions and softening the cataract for easier removal. By reducing reliance on ultrasonic energy during lens removal, it minimizes tissue damage and speeds up recovery times.
• Advantage Biometric Measurements. With tools like optical coherence tomography (OCT), we can get highly accurate measurements of your eye’s anatomy. These measurements ensure precise intraocular lens (IOL) power calculations and placement, improving the final visual outcome once your replacement lens is inserted.

Refined Surgical Techniques

In addition to technological breakthroughs, the surgical methods that our cataract surgeons use have enhanced patient safety.

• Phacoemulsification. This technique uses ultrasound energy to break up the cloudy lens into smaller pieces for removal through a tiny incision (typically 1-3 mm). It has replaced older methods due to its efficiency, lower complication rates, and quicker recovery.
• Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS). Known as the gold standard for efficiency and safety, this method reduces trauma to the eye by using micro-incisions. It often eliminates the need for sutures, leading to faster healing and less postoperative discomfort.
• Dropless Cataract Surgery. By delivering medication directly into the eye during surgery, this approach eliminates or reduces the need for postoperative eye drops, improving patient compliance.
• Intraoperative Aberrometry. This real-time measurement tool ensures precise alignment of toric IOLs along the axis of astigmatism during surgery. The result is improved visual outcomes for patients with astigmatism who need cataract surgery.
• Heads-Up 3D Visualization Systems. These systems provide surgeons with a three-dimensional view of the surgical field, enhancing depth perception and precision during delicate maneuvers.

Cataract Surgery Risks – Compared to Other Procedures

When compared to other routine surgeries, cataract surgery stands out for its exceptional safety profile, with fewer than 1 in 200 patients experiencing serious complications during or after surgery—an incredibly low complication rate. In rare cases, infection, bleeding, or retinal detachment can happen, but these risks are minimized through meticulous surgical techniques and preoperative assessments. So, how safe is cataract surgery? Very!

Is Cataract Surgery Safe For Diabetics or Heart Disease Patients?

Yes, cataract surgery is safe for diabetics and heart disease patients with proper precautions in place. If you’re diabetic, you need to maintain good blood sugar control to reduce infection risks, while heart patients may require clearance from their cardiologist.

How Can I Make Sure My Cataract Surgery Is A Safe Experience?

A safe cataract surgery involves careful planning, and attention to detail before, during, and after the procedure. Here are some key steps you can take as a patient to achieve the best possible outcome for yourself.

1. Choose The Best Surgeon For The Job.

You want to select an ophthalmologist who specializes in cataract surgery; this can be verified by checking their credentials and asking about their experience and success rates during your consultation with them. You can also seek out referrals from your optometrist, or use our Find a Surgeon Directory.

2. Follow Pre-Surgery Prep Steps.

Attend all pre-operative appointments to discuss your medical history and any concerns you have. If you’re given medication instructions, follow these to a T, as these help keep you safe from avoidable complications. Lastly, arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure.

3. Post-Operative Care Essentials

Follow your surgeon’s instructions for prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops as these will help create a smoother recovery for you, and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes! You’ll be given protective eyewear to help shield your eyes from bright light and debris; so make sure to wear these. Finally, keep water out of your eyes for the first 10 days, refrain from wearing makeup for 4 weeks, and limit strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks post-surgery.

Find Your Expert Cataract Surgeon Today

Don’t let cataracts diminish your quality of life. Take the first step towards clearer vision by using our Find a Surgeon Directory to connect with a top-rated cataract specialist near you. Your journey to better vision starts now!