How long can cataract surgery be postponed?

Cataract surgery is a significant procedure for restoring vision impaired by cataracts. Many wonder how long they can delay surgery without jeopardising their eyesight.

Understanding the implications of postponing cataract surgery is crucial for making an informed decision about when to proceed. Here’s what you need to consider about delaying this important surgery.

Understanding Cataracts

Cataracts develop when the natural lens inside your eye becomes cloudy, usually due to ageing. This cloudiness can lead to blurred vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and changes in the way you see colours. Initially, the symptoms may be mild, but they typically worsen over time.

Initial Stages

In the early stages of cataracts, you may not immediately need surgery. If your vision isn’t significantly affected, and you can manage your daily activities comfortably, delaying surgery might be an option. During this period, regular monitoring is essential to assess how quickly the cataract is progressing.

Progression and Lifestyle Impact

The decision to postpone surgery often depends on the cataract's impact on your lifestyle. If you find your ability to read, drive, or perform other daily tasks is becoming increasingly difficult, it may be time to consider surgery. The rate at which cataracts develop varies from person to person; some may experience rapid deterioration, while others may not notice significant changes for years.

Risks of Delaying Surgery

Postponing cataract surgery indefinitely is not advisable. Over time, cataracts can become "hyper-mature", which makes them harder to remove and increases the risk of complications during surgery. Moreover, severe cataracts can lead to other eye conditions, such as cataract-induced glaucoma, which can cause permanent damage to the optic nerve. In addition if you can’t see well this increases the risk of falls and can result in hip fractures.

Consultation Is Key

The best way to determine the right time for cataract surgery is through regular consultations with your Ophthalmologist. They can assess the severity of your cataracts and advise you on the potential risks of waiting too long. Remember, each case is unique, and the timing for surgery should be tailored to your specific needs.

When Surgery Becomes Essential

Cataract surgery becomes necessary when your quality of life is affected. Signs that it might be time to stop postponing include:

  • Difficulty driving at night due to glare.
  • Problems reading or performing tasks that require sharp vision.
  • Frequent changes in prescription glasses.
  • Visual disturbances that affect your independence or safety.

Modern Surgical Advances

Thanks to advancements in medical technology, cataract surgery is safer and more effective than ever. Modern procedures are typically quick, involve minimal discomfort, and have high success rates. Most patients experience significant improvements in vision, often returning to their normal activities within a few days.

Preparing for Surgery

If you decide to proceed with surgery, preparing properly can help ensure a smooth process and quick recovery. This includes:

  • Arranging for someone to drive you home post-surgery.
  • Following pre-surgery instructions, such as not eating or drinking before the procedure.
  • Setting up your home to avoid the need for strenuous activities immediately after surgery.

Postponement Considerations

If you're considering postponing cataract surgery, discuss it thoroughly with your eye care professional. They will help you weigh the benefits of immediate surgery against the potential drawbacks of waiting.

Factors such as your age, general health, and the progression rate of the cataracts will play crucial roles in this decision.

Are you uncertain about the timing of your cataract surgery? Don’t leave your vision to chance. Book your free video assessment.

Our experts are ready to provide you with personalised advice, helping you determine the optimal timing for your surgery. Book your free video assessment now and take the first step towards clearer vision and improved quality of life.

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What our patients say…

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Had cataract surgery on both eyes simultaneously last week and, 7 days later, the vision is brilliant. I can see to read as well, including small print smaller than I expected! I can see car number plates at the end of the road. Everything was excellent, and I could not have wished for anything better.

Verified patient on Doctify

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

My cataract surgery was a great experience. My vision is now brighter; overall, I felt informed and secure throughout, and I am glad I did it and definitely recommend Sharmina Khan. Everyone at the hospital was great, very professional, friendly, and treated me very nicely. During the surgery, I didn’t feel any pain at any time. The recovery was very easy and smooth.

Verified patient on Doctify

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I was very nervous about having cataract surgery, as I have other medical conditions in both eyes. Ms. Khan allayed all of my fears and explained everything in detail to me. Now that both surgeries are completed, I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. I’m seeing things I’ve not been able to see properly in years. Amazing!

Verified patient on Doctify

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Ms. Sharmina Khan is an outstanding eye consultant. She took the time to listen attentively to my concerns and provided thoughtful, easy-to-understand explanations. Her depth of knowledge and ability to address my questions left me thoroughly satisfied with her services. I highly recommend Ms. Sharmina Khan to anyone seeking expert eye care and guidance.

Verified patient on Doctify

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I had cataract surgery in both eyes. The procedure was painless, easy to understand, and swift. My anxiety levels were very low, and recovery was quick and easy. I was just so relaxed. My vision was like being Wonder Woman. It was so clear, and it was like someone had cleaned a window. Now, my vision is fine for reading, computer use, and using a sewing machine.

Verified patient on Doctify

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Extremely happy with vision following cataract surgery. I wish I had it done sooner. The colors I am experiencing, I didn’t know existed. The experience was really good; it wasn’t much painful. I really enjoyed the sandwiches afterward. When I got home, I saw every little mark on the walls and now am cleaning up!

Verified patient on Doctify

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

6/5. Incredibly impressed with Miss Khan’s bedside manner and operation and consultation. I have had the Synergy toric lens and have experienced a dramatic increase in distance vision. Now, I am able to read stuff on the television perfectly, and reading small print, I can now read the back of a tin of beans!

Verified patient on Doctify

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Miss Khan was very professional, and both my eyes had trifocal intra-ocular lens implants (toric in the left). The risks and benefits were explained to my satisfaction, and I was very nervous. However, the procedure and the recovery were painless. I now have perfect unaided vision in both eyes and would recommend Miss Khan, 10 out of 10.

Verified patient on Doctify

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I’m so pleased I sought Sharmina Khan’s help. My dry eye problem was debilitating. I turned up to my appointment in a very worried state and left reassured. My eyes are now vastly better. I feel in good hands. Thank you!

Verified patient on Doctify

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I have had Lipiflow a few times now, and I couldn’t do without it because it really gets rid of my gritty and sore eyes for months at a time. Lipiflow has helped me go back to doing normal things without getting frustrated, like driving, tolerating air conditioning, generally tolerating different humidity levels, and not feeling like I need to use eye drops all the time. I would highly recommend it.

Verified patient on Doctify

We have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.

Unlock your vision’s potential with our quick 2-minute quiz!

Embrace a world where glasses are a thing of the past and quickly discover if refractive lens exchange is the right choice for you. Uncover the possibilities of a life with crystal-clear vision, tailored to your unique needs.

Unlock Your Vision’s Potential with our quick 2-Minute quiz!

Embrace a world where glasses are a thing of the past and quickly discover if refractive lens exchange is the right choice for you. Uncover the possibilities of a life with crystal-clear vision, tailored to your unique needs.

Sharmina Khan

MBBS(Lond) MSc FHEA FRCOphth DipCRS CertLRS, Consultant Eye Surgeon

Hi, I’m Sharmina Khan

I am a specialist Cataract & Lens Consultant Surgeon based in London at Moorfields Private Eye Hospital.

I have carried out over 7000+ cataract/lens procedures in the last 10 years across both my private and NHS practices.

In my private clinic I offer my clients bespoke Premium Cataract Care Pathways. There are options so that you can achieve your dreams of better vision and more, according to your lifestyle needs.