Every patient with suspected cataract should seek consultation with an experienced surgeon. Cataracts are a problem that can be cured. When I perform a cataract consultation, there are usually three goals I try to achieve with my patients. The first goal is to determine if cataract surgery would be beneficial. The second goal is to determine the best timing for surgery if indicated. The third is to determine the best lens implant to reach our visual goals after surgery.

Goal One: Will cataract surgery be beneficial for you?

During a cataract consultation the eyes are dilated and a complete examination is performed. It’s important to fully visualize the extent of cataract in the eye as well as ensure that no other conditions such as glaucoma or macular degeneration are contributing to difficulties with vision. In most cases, cataract surgery can benefit even those with other eye diseases, but each case is unique. In the vast majority of patients found to have significant cataracts, the surgery will be beneficial. Studies have shown that vision while driving at night is especially impaired with cataract. In fact, the rate of traffic accidents has been shown to decrease by half in those who have had their cataracts removed. I try to clearly discuss the specific impact cataracts may have for each patient individually based on their particular visual problems and needs.

Goal Two: When is the best time to have cataract surgery?

During a cataract consultation I have my patients fill out a survey to help us understand how their vision may be affected by cataract (click here to see my survey). This not only helps us decide if cataract surgery may be beneficial, it also helps us decide the best timing. Typically most cataracts grow slowly over years. In virtually all cases it is perfectly safe to allow a cataract to grow rather than doing surgery immediately. Because even a severe cataract can still be completely removed, it is possible to restore vision lost from cataract at virtually any stage. Practically in the U.S., most patients decide to have surgery when their normal activities have shown a decline due to the vision loss from cataract as determined by our consultation. Simply put, once the surgeon offers the option of cataract removal, it is entirely up to the patient to decide the right time to have surgery.

Goal Three: What is the best lens implant to meet your visual goals after surgery?

Once a decision to perform surgery has been made, the next step is to discuss visual needs and desires after surgery. Patients fill out a second survey I designed to help us understand their visual goals and options for achieving them (click here to see my survey). For most patients I am able to clearly identify the best option at our initial consultation. However, in almost all cases we have patients return for a second consultation after we have taken further computer measurements of their eyes and after they have had time to discuss their options with their family. In addition, we have a special patient counselor assigned to each patient for any further individual needs. Finally, prior to surgery I review the goals and expectations with each patient based on our decisions. Experience has shown that this thorough, methodical approach leads to the best results for patients after cataract surgery.