What Causes Blindness After Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most common procedures performed worldwide. It has a high success rate and helps millions of people regain clear vision. However, like any medical procedure, there are rare risks, and the thought of potential complications, such as blindness, can be concerning. Understanding the causes and how they are managed can offer peace of mind.
Common causes of vision loss after cataract surgery
While permanent vision loss after cataract surgery is extremely rare, a few complications can lead to serious vision issues if not treated promptly:
- Infection (Endophthalmitis): This is a rare (1:1000) but serious infection inside the eye. Symptoms include severe eye pain, redness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Prompt treatment with antibiotics can often save vision.
- Retinal detachment: This occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye. Signs include sudden flashes of light, floaters, or a shadow over your vision. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency but can often be successfully treated with surgery if caught early.
- Cystoid macular edema (CME): This is swelling in the central retina (macula) that can cause blurred or distorted vision. It’s usually temporary and responds well to medication.
- Posterior capsule opacification (PCO): Often called a "secondary cataract," this is not true blindness but can cause blurry vision months or years after surgery. A simple laser treatment can quickly restore clear vision.
- Suprachoroidal hemorrhage: A rare complication where bleeding occurs inside the eye during or after surgery. It requires immediate attention to prevent permanent vision loss.
Risk factors
Certain factors may increase the risk of complications:
- Pre-existing eye conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or high myopia
- Previous eye surgeries
- Trauma to the eye
- Systemic conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension.
How to reduce your risk
- Choose an experienced surgeon: Skilled surgeons, like Sharmina Khan, are trained to handle complications if they arise and with good outcomes.
- Follow post-operative instructions: Use prescribed eye drops and attend follow-up appointments. Keep in touch with free video calls post op if required.
- Report symptoms immediately: If you experience sudden vision changes, pain, or redness, seek ophthalmic medical attention promptly.
While the risk of blindness after cataract surgery exists, it’s extremely rare. The vast majority of people experience significantly improved vision. Understanding the signs of potential complications and seeking prompt care can help prevent serious issues.
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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 DoctifyWe have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.
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.
