Risks of Cataract Surgery

San Francisco, Bay Area & San Jose, California

Like any surgery, there are certain risks associated with cataract surgery. As a cataract patient, it is important for you to be informed of the possible complications of the surgery so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment.

At the Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley, our eye surgeons and eye-care staff are dedicated to providing information about vision choices, including cataract surgery, to patients in Santa Clara, San Jose and the surrounding areas.

Possible Complications

Depending on your overall health and other factors, the risks of cataract surgery include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Inflammation
• Swelling
• Retinal detachment
• Increased ocular pressure
• Secondary cataract

In the most severe and rare cases, these complications can lead to vision loss or loss of the eye; however, most of these complications can be treated effectively if detected in early stages.

In the days following surgery, you must take steps to prevent eye infection. Your eye surgeon will provide you with aftercare instructions. To prevent infection, you will be instructed to avoid splashing water into your eye while bathing. You should also avoid activities exposing your eye to dust and grime.

Some of the more serious complications include retinal detachment and secondary cataracts. Fluid buildup following cataract surgery can cause the retina to become detached from its supporting tissue, resulting in serious vision problems. The retina can be reattached surgically. Signs of retinal detachment include the sudden onset of floaters, flashes of light, and a shadowy curtain obstructing your vision.

A "secondary cataract" is not actually a cataract at all, but a posterior capsule opacity (PCO). PCO is the ingrowth of cells on the capsule that formerly held the cataract and now holds the implantable contact lens. PCO is easily corrected with a laser treatment. An indication that you may have PCO is hazy or blurry vision during your recovery or in the months following the procedure.

Other cataract surgery complications are treated with antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops.

Understanding the Risks of Cataract Surgery

Overall, cataract surgery is a relatively safe and routine procedure. Although complications are possible, they are rare if you choose an experienced eye surgeon who carefully screens each patient for proper candidacy.

Multiple sources cite the success rate for cataract surgery as being well over 90 percent. According to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, cataract surgery has a success rate of 98 percent. The vast majority of patients do not experience complications that are vision-threatening.

By disclosing your full medical history and current medications to your eye surgeon you can prevent the risks of cataract surgery. People who do suffer from complications often have underlying eye conditions or are taking medications that lead to problems. Experienced eye surgeons carefully screen patients to make sure they are good candidates for cataract surgery.

The experienced ophthalmologists at the Laser Eye Center of Silicon Valley provide experienced cataract surgery to patients living in Santa Clara and the surrounding California areas. Please contact the Laser Eye Center to schedule a consultation.

1.800.725.0740