Cataract surgery is one of the most common and effective procedures performed today, helping millions of people regain clear vision. When patients learn they need cataract surgery in both eyes, a natural question arises: Are both eyes treated at the same time?
What Is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a safe and highly effective procedure used to restore clear vision when the eye’s natural lens becomes clouded. During the surgery, the cloudy lens is carefully removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), which helps focus light properly onto the retina.
The procedure is usually completed in less than 30 minutes, requires only a small incision, and is performed under local anesthesia, so patients remain comfortable throughout. With modern techniques and advanced lens options, cataract surgery not only removes the cataract but can also reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, helping patients enjoy sharper, brighter vision.
Understanding How Cataract Surgery Is Performed
In most cases, cataract surgery is performed on one eye at a time, typically with a few weeks in between procedures. This approach allows the first eye to heal and ensures your vision stabilizes before treating the second eye. It also gives your doctor the opportunity to evaluate how your eye responds to surgery and make any necessary adjustments for the second procedure.
Why Surgeries Are Usually Staged
There are several reasons why surgeons prefer to stage cataract surgeries:
- Safety: By operating on one eye at a time, the risk of infection or complication affecting both eyes simultaneously is minimized.
- Healing and Adjustment: Vision can fluctuate during the healing process. Completing one surgery at a time allows you to adapt and helps guide decisions for the second surgery.
- Accuracy of Outcomes: The results from the first surgery may influence the lens selection or technique for the second eye, ensuring optimal vision correction.
What to Expect Between Surgeries
If your surgeries are scheduled separately, you may notice a temporary imbalance in vision between your eyes. Glasses or contact lenses may help with this adjustment period, and most patients find that once both eyes have been treated, they experience greatly improved clarity and comfort.
Discover Your Cataract Surgery Options
While cataract surgery is highly effective, most patients undergo the procedure one eye at a time for safety and precision. Our priority is providing you with the best outcome possible, and your surgeon will recommend a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.
Schedule your consultation with Grin Eye Care to learn more about your cataract surgery options. Visit our office in Leawood, Olathe, Kansas, or Kansas City, Missouri. Call (913) 829-5511 to book an appointment.
