Cataracts are a common condition that affects individuals over the age of 60. While they can take years or even decades to progress to a point where surgery is required, understanding the treatment options and the role of your optometrist in managing cataracts is crucial.
So, can optometrists do cataract surgery? The short answer is no—cataract surgery is performed by ophthalmologists. However, optometrists play an important role in monitoring and managing cataract progression and ensuring the best possible vision during the process.
What Are Cataracts and How Are They Treated?
A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens in the eye, which leads to progressively blurry vision. Over time, this clouding worsens, and once it interferes with daily tasks such as driving or reading, surgery is often required.
Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens. While optometrists cannot perform surgery, they are essential in monitoring cataracts, managing symptoms, and referring patients to an ophthalmologist for surgery when necessary.
The Role of Optometrists in Cataract Care
Even before cataract surgery becomes necessary, your optometrist is your first line of defense in managing cataracts. Here’s how they help:
- Monitor Cataract Progression: Your optometrist will regularly assess your vision and monitor the cataract’s progression. They may update your eyeglass or contact lens prescription to improve clarity and help manage symptoms.
- Managing Symptoms: If you’re not ready for surgery, your optometrist will offer strategies to manage symptoms like glare and difficulty with contrast. Special filters and glasses can help reduce glare and improve contrast, making everyday activities easier.
- Referring to a Cataract Eye Doctor: When the cataract has worsened enough to require surgery, your optometrist will refer you to an ophthalmologist who can perform the surgery. They will continue to co-manage your care post-surgery to ensure the best long-term outcome.
When is Cataract Surgery Necessary?
If symptoms such as blurry vision, difficulty driving at night, and increased sensitivity to light become persistent, surgery may be necessary. Your optometrist will help determine when it’s time for cataract surgery, based on the severity of your condition and the impact it’s having on your daily life.
At this point, you’ll be referred to an ophthalmologist, who specializes in eye surgery and can perform the procedure to restore clear vision. After surgery, your optometrist will help manage your eye health and ensure proper recovery.
Schedule an Eye Exam Today
If you notice blurry vision or suspect that you may have developed cataracts, it’s important to schedule an eye exam right away. Early detection and monitoring can help you manage symptoms and ensure that the progression of cataracts is tracked before surgery becomes necessary.
To discuss your cataract concerns and schedule an eye checkup, contact Eyes on Group today.
Frequently Asked Questions with Dr. Nicholas Feucht
Will cataracts return after surgery?
After cataract surgery, the natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens, so the cataract itself cannot return. However, in some cases, a clouding of the capsule that holds the lens may occur over time, requiring a quick laser procedure to clear it up.
What’s the best treatment for cataracts?
While glasses can help manage cataract symptoms temporarily, surgery is the only effective long-term treatment. If your quality of life is impacted, it’s time to consider cataract surgery.