Cataract surgery is a low-risk procedure, with an estimated 98 percent success rate. However, there are some potential complications that can arise, especially if the patient has pre-existing visual or health issues. In this article, we'll explore the risks associated with cataract surgery and what to look out for after the procedure. Every year, around 4 million cataract surgeries are performed in the United States. According to Dr.
Christopher Starr, D., these surgeries are “overwhelmingly successful” and a study of 221,000 patients showed that 99.5 percent had no serious complications. However, it's important to remember that any surgery carries some risk. The most serious complication of cataract surgery is endophthalmitis, which is an infection caused by microorganisms entering the eye. This is rare but can be serious if not treated promptly. Other potential complications include suprachoroidal bleeding, which is more common in people with diabetes or high blood pressure, and retinal detachment. It's also important to note that cataract surgery may not improve vision if there is underlying eye damage caused by other conditions such as glaucoma or macular degeneration.
If you take any medications for prostate problems, tell your doctor as some of these medicines may interfere with cataract surgery. Most people who have cataract surgery experience some increase in eye pressure after the procedure, but this usually returns to normal within 24 hours. The most common complication of cataract surgery is posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which appears up to 8 weeks after the procedure. If you're considering cataract surgery, it's important to talk to your doctor about any pre-existing conditions or medications you're taking that could complicate recovery. It may also be beneficial to evaluate and treat other eye problems before making a decision to undergo cataract surgery.
