Cataract surgery is an effective procedure to remove cataracts from the eye. When considering this surgery, a common question among patients is whether they will return. Vik Sharma from HSEH specialises in advanced forms of cataract surgery and addresses this common concern.

What are cataracts?

Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. They tend to develop with age. However, eye injuries and certain medical conditions can also cause cataracts to develop. Cataracts tend to progress gradually.

Initially, cataracts may not impact vision. However, as they worsen, it can become difficult to see well enough to perform everyday activities like reading and driving.

What is cataract surgery?

Unfortunately, cataracts cannot be prevented. Initially, they may be treated with contact lenses or eyeglasses. However, as the they progress and impact vision, surgery may become necessary.

During surgery, the clouded lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens.

Can they come back?

A common question for patients who have had their vision impacted by cataracts is whether they can come back. During surgery, the natural clouded lens is replaced with an artificial lens. This means that it is not possible for the cataracts to come back.

What happens if they are left untreated?

Untreated cataracts can impact every aspect of your life. If they are not removed, they can get progressively worse. Untreated cataracts can progress from unnoticeable to a slight annoyance to a major inconvenience. In addition to clouded vision, untreated cataracts can cause the following:

  • Difficulty with night vision
  • Light sensitivity
  • Need for brighter reading light
  • Frequent changes in contact lens prescriptions
  • Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
  • Fading of colours
  • Double vision in a single eye

Book a consultation with Harley Street Eye Hospital to discuss treatment options and how we can help you. Our specialist team can advise you on the best treatment suited to you.