Glaucoma and cataracts are common eye conditions in older adults, though they can technically occur at any age. If you’re living with vision complications from having both glaucoma and cataracts, Dr. Mayo and the Eye Center of Texas provide an effective, FDA-approved treatment option that can protect against vision loss. The device, called i-Stent, can be inserted during cataract surgery to lower and control pressure in the eye caused by glaucoma. 

Learn more about the i-Stent procedure for providing relief from both glaucoma and cataracts. 

Can you have glaucoma and cataracts?

It is possible to have both glaucoma and cataracts. The conditions are not related, but they tend to occur in people over the age of 60. Let’s review the basics of glaucoma and cataracts

Cataracts

Cataracts occur as the eye’s lens grows cloudy and inflexible, dulling or blurring vision over time in most cases. Common cataract symptoms typically include:

• Cloudy, blurred, or dim vision
• Sensitivity to light and glare
• Poor night vision or trouble driving at night
• Dull or less vibrant colors
• Double vision in one eye
• Glasses or contacts are no longer helping

If you’re curious about what causes cataracts, the cost of cataract surgery, or whether you can have cataract surgery in both eyes at once, Eye Center of Texas offers a series of helpful guides:

• What Causes Cataracts?
• Cataract Surgery – Laser vs. Traditional
• Can You Wait Too Long to Have Cataract Surgery?
• Having Cataract Surgery in Both Eyes at Once
• Cataract Surgery Cost: Understanding Insurance & More

Glaucoma 

Glaucoma refers to a group of conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve, often with abnormally high pressure in the eye. The most common type of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, may result in tunnel vision or blind spots. 

Glaucoma can affect anyone, but some of the most prevalent risk factors include:

• Being age 60 or older
• African American heritage
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Extreme nearsightedness
• Eye trauma
• Long-term steroid treatment
• Family history of glaucoma

Your eye doctor should check for cataracts and glaucoma when you have your annual eye exam, so you can treat them effectively before they advance and prevent damage to the optic nerve. 

Can cataracts cause increased eye pressure?

Cataracts do not cause increased eye pressure. They blur vision by clouding the eye’s lens. Glaucoma, however, occurs when the drainage passage in the eye is blocked or not functioning well, causing a buildup of fluid that raises intraocular pressure. Without treatment, glaucoma can cause damage to the optic nerve over time and cause vision loss both peripherally and centrally — that’s why early diagnosis is key.

Is it safe to have cataract surgery with glaucoma?

While every person’s condition is different, it is generally considered safe to have cataract surgery with glaucoma. However, cataract surgery has been shown to increase eye pressure, so those with glaucoma may wish to have both procedures done at the same time. Fortunately, having glaucoma and cataract surgery at the same time can actually be of great benefit to those who have both conditions—and the i-Stent makes that possible. 

Of the i-Stent procedure, Dr. May of Eye Center of Texas has said, “The FDA-approved i-Stent is great news for people who have both a cataract and glaucoma. When pressure in the eye is out of control, it can increase the risk for permanent vision loss. I consider i-Stent an important advancement in protecting against vision loss for my glaucoma patients.”

The i-Stent procedure for glaucoma and cataracts

The i-Stent procedure combines cataract and glaucoma surgery into a single treatment. The i-Stent itself operates just like a stent that works to prevent a heart attack or stroke, but on a smaller scale. By creating a permanent opening in the blocked trabecular meshwork, it allows the backed-up fluid to drain, diminishing pressure and preventing damage to the optic nerve.

The process is simple: after your cataracts are removed, your eye surgeon will implant the i-Stent—a device that’s 20,000 times smaller than your new cataract lens. You won’t see or feel it afterward. By having cataract and glaucoma surgery at the same time, you’re treating both conditions with less stress to your system and a combined cataract and glaucoma treatment recovery.

Contact Eye Center of Texas to discuss the i-Stent treatment for glaucoma and cataracts today

If you’re suffering from both glaucoma and cataracts, the i-Sent surgery may be able to help. i-Stent surgery recovery is quick, and in most cases requires only anti-inflammatory drops and avoiding strenuous activity for a few days. Many individuals no longer need eye drops to treat their glaucoma once they’ve recovered because the i-Stent is maintaining healthy eye pressure. 

If you’d like to learn more about cataract or glaucoma treatment, schedule an appointment today or call the Eye Center of Texas at 713-797-1010.

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• Cataract Surgery Recovery Time
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• Why is My Vision Getting Worse? 
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If your vision has gotten blurry or cloudy due to cataracts, you may be wondering, “How does cataract surgery work?” Cataracts are a common condition in older adults that results in the clouding of the eye. Although it may feel like a film has formed over your eye, it’s actually the buildup of proteins preventing light from reaching through to your retina. 

The good news is, cataracts can be surgically removed, and new lenses can be inserted with a short outpatient procedure that’s relatively pain-free. It’s a safe, effective solution that can reduce dependence on glasses. But exactly how does cataract surgery work? Let’s find out. 

Common symptoms of cataracts

Before we dive more deeply into answering the question, “How does cataract surgery work?” it’s important to discuss whether or not you may actually have a cataract. No list of symptoms can replace the evaluation of a doctor, but common symptoms of cataracts can include:  

• Cloudy, blurred, or dim vision
• Sensitivity to light and glare, even during the day
• Poor night vision or trouble driving at night
• Colors seem dull or less vibrant
• Double vision in one eye
• Your glasses or contacts don’t help your vision, despite regular checkups

Just discovered that you have a cataract? Check out our guides to knowing when to have cataract surgery and cataract stages in pictures. 

Cataract surgery lens options

Prior to surgery, you’ll have a choice of artificial lenses. The most commonly chosen lens is the monofocal lens, which can restore near-perfect vision, but only at a single set distance: near, intermediate, or far. The multifocal lens can correct for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and presbyopia, with 80% of patients going glasses-free post-recovery. For those affected by astigmatism, the astigmatism-correcting lens offers clear, sharp distance vision along with reduced dependency on glasses.

How to prepare for cataract surgery 

Depending on where you go for your procedure, your doctor may ask you to use prescription antibiotic eye drops 1-2 days before the procedure. You may also be asked not to eat or drink anything for up to 12 hours before the procedure. 

Your doctor should also ask you about any current medications you are taking to ensure that these medications do not carry the risk of interfering with the procedure. 

Most patients ask for 1-2 days off of work. Some enlist childcare. If you do not plan on having someone to look after you as you recover, you may wish to pre-plan your meals so that you can avoid cooking. 

Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure, but Eye Center of Texas does not allow patients to drive post-op, as the sedative medications used during the procedure can impair driving abilities. All of our patients are required to secure a ride home with a trusted friend or family member, NOT a rideshare.  

How is cataract surgery performed?

There are two main types of cataract surgery performed today — traditional and laser. Both types of cataract surgeries achieve the same basic goal, but their approaches differ. 

In traditional cataract surgery, your surgeon creates an incision in your cornea using a blade, then uses ultrasound waves to break up the cloudy lens. Afterwards, the surgeon then removes those pieces and inserts a clear, artificial lens in its place.

Laser surgery reduces the need for handheld tools such as blades. Your surgeon will use a camera to map the surface of your eye, then a femtosecond laser to break up the cloudy lens and create a precise incision in your cornea. The surgeon will then suction out the cloudy pieces and insert your new artificial lens. The whole process typically takes less than an hour. 

Cataract surgery: laser vs. traditional

When weighing laser cataract surgery vs. traditional, many people wonder whether there is a benefit to pursuing one option over the other. Research points to additional benefits from the laser surgery approach. Laser-assisted surgeries have greater accuracy and precision and are less likely to burn the corneal incision. The surgeons at Eye Center of Texas are some of the leading laser cataract surgeons in the nation! 

Been putting off cataract surgery? Worried you’ve waited too long? Check out our article: “Can You Wait Too Long to Have Cataract Surgery?” 

Are you awake during cataract surgery?

This question and some variation of “How painful is cataract surgery?” are some of the most common that we receive with regard to this procedure. And we understand the concern! Fortunately, the answers to such questions bear good news. 

While patients are typically awake during cataract surgery, they will have received either oral or intravenous sedatives so that they remain calm. It’s actually much safer for the patient to be awake during the procedure. That way, surgeons can communicate with the patient if necessary. Meanwhile, the eye(s) will be numbed so that you will experience no pain. The only sensation patients typically experience during cataract surgery is a feeling of pressure.

Because of the medication, many patients don’t even remember having undergone the procedure. 

What is the recovery time for cataract surgery?

Of course, every person’s recovery timeline looks different, but recovery time for cataract surgery typically runs between 24-48 hours. There are some activities, such as swimming, that you should avoid for longer. (For more information, please see our guide to activities to avoid during cataract surgery recovery time.) 

Most surgery patients return to work in one to three days. Full recovery typically takes around eight weeks. 

Your doctor will schedule a series of follow-up appointments after the procedure: one for 1-2 days post-op, one a week after surgery, and one about a month after the procedure. 

It is normal for patients to experience vision blurriness or mild discomfort, such as itchiness, after cataract surgery but this typically clears up in a few days. Complications are rare, but contact your doctor ASAP if you experience swelling of your eyelids, persistent pain, sudden vision loss, or light flashes. 

Contact Eye Center of Texas to discuss your cataract treatment options

If you’re wondering, “How does cataract surgery work?” you are not alone. In the U.S., more than 24 million people over the age of 40 are affected, and more than three million cataract surgeries are performed in the U.S. every year.

Houston’s leading cataract surgeons have performed more than 80,000 successful surgeries at Eye Center of Texas, helping people of all ages and abilities see clearly again. To learn more about our LenSx Laser cataract surgery or request an appointment, call 713-797-1010 or contact us online today.

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• ICL vs. LASIK Surgery 
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• What Can LASIK Surgery Fix? 

The cataract surgery success rate is a common topic brought up by our patients, which is typically followed up with the question, “Is cataract surgery safe?”

You’ll be happy to know that not only is cataract surgery nearly painless with a quick recovery process, but it also has a very high success rate — 97-98% according to recent studies. This is because it is a common surgery that involves very few (if any) possible complications.

Is cataract surgery always successful?

Like we said before, cataract surgery is a common surgery with a high success rate of 98%. However, the longer you wait to have cataract surgery, the more likely it is that you can experience some setbacks. In other words, cataract surgery isn’t always successful … but it usually is.

What can cause cataract surgery to be unsuccessful?

If you’ve been asking yourself “why is my vision getting worse?” untreated cataracts may be to blame. Untreated cataracts become denser over time and can eventually become “hyper-mature.” When this happens, it can be more difficult to remove the cataract (which can ultimately cause issues during the surgery).

So if you’re wondering “Can you wait too long to have cataract surgery?” — the quick answer is yes. As a rule of thumb, just remember that the longer you wait, the more difficult the surgery will become. In other words, it’s best to keep on the lookout for the early signs of cataracts, meet regularly with your eye doctor, and take the necessary preventative precautions.

How long does it take for the eye to heal after cataract surgery?

After a successful cataract surgery, you can expect a relatively painless recovery. Most people only need an average of one to three days off work and can resume the majority of day-to-day activities within the first 48 hours. The complete cataract surgery recovery time can take as long as 8 weeks.

As far as your vision goes, you can expect things to stabilize within 3-6 weeks. Keep in mind, if you receive a Monofocal IOL, you may experience a slightly longer recovery process.

What are the cataract surgery complications?

Post-surgery it is very rare for patients to experience any complications. This is why cataract surgery is considered a very safe and effective procedure. Outside of the initial recovery process, any side effects or issues people experience after cataract surgery are minor.

To top things off, with the introduction of laser-assisted cataract surgery, surgeons are given the tools to be more successful, which ultimately leads to fewer complications during and after the surgery.

One additional point of consideration is whether or not you need cataract surgery done on both eyes. While you can have two rounds of cataract surgery, doing surgery on both eyes at once can present additional complications. For this reason, Eye Center of Texas advises patients with cataracts in both eyes to wait at least a few days between procedures.

Contact Eye Center of Texas to start discussing cataract surgery options

If you’re questioning the success rate of cataract surgery, you can rest assured that cataract surgery is safe, effective, and long-lasting. If you’re experiencing any signs of early cataracts, make an appointment with Eye Center of Texas today, so you can have a successful cataract surgery in the future.

Give us a call at 713-797-1010 or contact us online to request an appointment, discuss cost, and explore your options for achieving better vision safely and successfully.

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Your Pre- And Post-Op Checklist

If you’re preparing for cataract surgery, you’re probably eager to get back to seeing better and looking forward to life with clearer vision. The side effects of cataracts (both short-term and long-term) can have a devastating impact on your quality of life (check out these early signs of cataracts), and it’s important to treat the issue as soon as possible so that you can return to better vision. 

To help you better prepare for cataract surgery, we’ve created a simple before and after checklist to help you navigate the procedure safely and effectively.

Pre-op checklist for cataract surgery

There are several things you can do to prepare for cataract surgery that will help make the days and hours leading up to the surgery easier on you and your family. 

One week before your surgery

• Your doctor will perform tests to identify which lens to use for your surgery. You should let your doctor know if you are taking any medications and be sure to schedule follow-up appointments and discuss any additional day-of preparations that may be needed. 
• Your doctor may give you eye drops for future use.
• Plan to take off 1–3 days from work.
• Find someone who will be able to drive you home after your surgery.

The night before your surgery

• Use the eye drops as prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not eat or drink after midnight (this includes water and alcohol).
• Confirm your ride home for after the surgery.
• Consider prepping your meals for the next few days (after your surgery, you will want to avoid any splatter, heat, or steam that might come from cooking).

The day of your surgery

• Do not eat or drink before your surgery. (You can brush your teeth, but use minimal water.)
• Do not wear makeup or facial creams.
• Arrive at your appointment early. 

Post-op checklist for cataract surgery

While you can typically return to normal activities within 48 hours, total cataract surgery recovery time is between 6–8 weeks. Here are a few things you may experience during that time, including a few do’s and don’ts after cataract surgery. Keep these in mind as you’re preparing for cataract surgery. 

Within the first 24 hours

• You might experience minimal discomfort or blurred vision after cataract surgery. 
• You should avoid rubbing your eyes, applying makeup, or using facial creams.
• You should avoid strenuous activity (this includes exercising).
• You should avoid watching TV and operating a vehicle.

24 hours and beyond

• Use any prescribed medications or eye drops to your doctor’s specifications.
• Don’t worry about how you sleep post-procedure.
  • You can sleep however if you choose, but if you’re still concerned, you can avoid sleeping on the side where you had the surgery. Either way, you should be fine.
• You can resume light exercising (avoid lifting more than 15 pounds for the first week).
• Swimming after cataract surgery is considered a risk — it’s recommended that you wait at least two weeks post-surgery before taking a dip or submerging in water.
• Make sure you attend any post-op appointments set with your doctor. If you experience any lingering discomfort, call your doctor.

How long does it take for my vision to stabilize after cataract surgery?

While recovery time can take anywhere between 6-8 weeks, your vision could stabilize before that (between 3–6 weeks). However, this will definitely depend on your individual situation. Check out our article, “What to Expect After Cataract Surgery: Side Effects and Timing” to learn more about the recovery timeline.

Have more questions about how to prepare for cataract surgery?

At Eye Center of Texas, we’ve performed over 80,000 successful cataract surgeries, and we’d love to help you see better, too. If you’re wondering what the cataract surgery cost is or wondering, “What do cataracts look like?” We are here to answer these questions and more. If you’d like to request an appointment, call 713-797-1010 or contact us online today.

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• Why Is My Vision Getting Worse? 
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• What Can LASIK Surgery Correct?

Patients considering cataract surgery often have questions regarding laser cataract surgery recovery time. That’s because while patients are often able to return to most of their regular activities within 24 hours of the procedure, other elements of cataract surgery recovery can take longer. 

In other words, there’s less of a concrete “cataract surgery recovery time” and more of a cataract surgery recovery timeline. 

At Eye Center of Texas, our top Houston cataract surgeons provide some of the best cataract surgery services in the nation. These services include helping our patients through the recovery process, which is one reason why we’ve created this guide to how to navigate cataract surgery recovery time. 

Read on to discover how long it takes to recover from cataract surgery, what activities you should and shouldn’t do during cataract surgery recovery time, and the ins and outs of cataract surgery aftercare. 

Cataract surgery aftercare 

All in all, the total cataract surgery recovery time typically winds up being between 6-8 weeks long. During that time, your eyes are healing and adjusting to the removal of the cataract and (frequently) the insertion of an Intraocular Lens(es), commonly referred to as IOLs. 

As your eyes recover, you may experience blurred vision during the first few hours and/or days of your cataract recovery time. You may also experience soreness, itchiness, and discomfort. These symptoms should abate within a few hours or days but may take longer to completely disappear. 

In the meantime:

• Don’t rub your eyes and, to that end, do your best to avoid allergens and dust
• Maintain only light activity; steer clear of heavy lifting and avoid strenuous exercise
• Do not wear makeup and avoid using lotions and creams on your face
• Follow your doctor’s recommendations with regard to driving, and medication

As noted, your ophthalmologist will likely prescribe anti-inflammatory eye drops as well as other medications and/or eye drops that will help your eyes fight infections and stay lubricated. We will cover information regarding driving below. 

FAQ: How should I sleep after cataract surgery? 

Those looking to reduce cataract surgery recovery time are often concerned about how to sleep after cataract surgery. This concern is natural, especially if you’re a restless sleeper. While you can technically sleep in any position, you may wish to avoid sleeping on the side where you received surgery. 

FAQ: How long before vision stabilizes after cataract surgery?

Another question we receive frequently with regard to what to expect after cataract surgery is “When will blurry vision after cataract surgery go away?” The rate at which your vision stabilizes post-op is one of the most personalized aspects of your cataract surgery recovery. It will depend on the health of your eye, the severity of your cataract, the type of lens you choose, and how proactive you are during recovery.

Many patients report clearer vision within a day of surgery, with noticeable improvements within a week. But it may take anywhere between 3–6 weeks for your vision to truly “settle” into its new normal. 

Cataract surgery and time off work

Many people put off cataract surgery because they are afraid that cataract surgery recovery time will interfere too much with their work. While some patients — especially those with physically demanding jobs — may need to take off a more extended period of time to let their eye(s) properly recover, most patients are able to return to work between 1–3 days after surgery. 

Patients should speak to their ophthalmologists to determine how much time they should request off of work. 

Other activities during cataract surgery recovery time

There are some activities which recent cataract surgery patients should avoid during recovery if they wish to preserve the health of their vision. Some of these activities can be resumed in just a few days, while others should be avoided for several weeks. 

Here are some guidelines for getting back to more frequently asked about activities, but always make sure to communicate with your doctor about your specific needs. 

How soon can I drive after cataract surgery?

Patients will need someone to drive them home directly after their procedure. However, many people can get back behind the wheel as soon as 24 hours after cataract surgery, and we frequently see patients who have driven themselves to their next-day check-up.

That said, the appropriate time to start driving again is entirely dependent on the patient. If you are still experiencing blurry vision 24 hours after your surgery, don’t drive. Speak with your ophthalmologist at your follow-up appointment to help determine when you can get back on the road. 

Can I watch TV after cataract surgery? 

Directly after cataract surgery, it’s best to let your eyes rest. Most doctors will recommend that you try to take a nap once you return home from the procedure. Additionally, depending on the health of your eyes and how they react to the procedure, your vision may or may not be too blurry to see details on your TV or computer screen. 

However, should you be able to focus on your TV or computer, we recommend keeping screen time to a minimum for at least the first 24 hours post-op. The strain of looking at a screen can be hard on your post-op eyes. 

For example, humans blink less frequently when looking at a screen, and since blinking replenishes the protective and lubricative film of tears on your eyes, screen time can increase your chances for eye dryness and irritation as you recover.  

When can I exercise after cataract surgery? 

It is best to forego strenuous activity for at least one week after cataract surgery. That includes exercise. Specifically, we recommend that you avoid lifting anything that weighs more than 15–20 pounds, exercise that involves bending over, and intensive cardio. Meanwhile, you should feel free to pursue light activity such as walking around the neighborhood or on a treadmill. 

When can I go swimming after cataract surgery? 

Swimming — even in your own pool — increases your chances of exposing your eyes to harmful bacteria. During cataract surgery recovery time, your eyes are much more vulnerable to infection, making swimming simply too much of a risk for at least the first two weeks post-op, and possibly longer if you’re considering swimming in a public pool.  

For more information on when you can consider getting back in the pool — be it your own, a public pool, a water park, hot tub, or sauna — check out our article on swimming after cataract surgery.

When can I cook after cataract surgery? 

For whatever reason, when planning for post-op care, patients often overlook the matter of food. That’s why one of the most frequent questions we receive post-cataract surgery is How many days after cataract surgery can you cook? 

When possible, it’s best to avoid cooking for about a week after cataract surgery. Doing so reduces your eye’s exposure to steam, heat, and food splatter. If you live alone and need ideas for how to prep for a week without cooking, check out the italicized link directly above.  

Have more questions about cataract surgery or cataract surgery recovery time and aftercare? Call Eye Center of Texas. 

If you’ve lived with cataracts for a long time (or even for a little while), cataract surgery can be life-changing. To a large extent, the short cataract surgery recovery time allows patients to get up, get out, and get on with life while enjoying their new vision. In the meantime, one of your best resources for information about the recovery process is your ophthalmologist. 

Eye Center of Texas is home to some of the leading cataract surgeons in Houston. We have performed well over 80,000 successful cataract surgeries and have helped thousands of people from all over the nation see clearly again. Whether you are considering cataract surgery or are in the middle of the recovery process, Eye Center of Texas is here for you. 

Put your vision in the hands of vision experts. To request an appointment, call 713-797-1010 or contact us online today.

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Previously, we’ve covered the signs for knowing when to have cataract surgery — i.e. when having cataract surgery may improve your quality of life — but can you wait too long to have cataract surgery? 

As home to some of the leading cataract surgeons in the nation, the surgeons at Eye Center of Texas often receive variants on this question, including How long can you wait for cataract surgery? or Is it ever too late to have cataract surgery?

Some patients, especially those with little ones, are concerned about how the cataract surgery recovery time will interfere with their lives (although most patients are able to go about their normal day within 24 hours). Others may have recently discovered that they have fast-growing cataracts and want to know how quickly they need to act.

Whatever the reason you’re wondering, “can you wait too long to have cataract surgery?” Eye Center of Texas is here to help. Let’s discuss what it means to put off cataract surgery for too much time. 

So, can you wait too long to have cataract surgery?

The short answer to this question would be yes, there does come a point in time when cataract surgery would be more difficult to perform than it would have been previously. 

A cataract is typically an age-related eye health issue that is caused by the breakdown of proteins in the lens of the eye. When left untreated, cataracts become denser and further impair vision. If a cataract is left untreated for too long, it becomes what is sometimes called “hyper-mature.” 

When this occurs, the cataract has become more dense, more difficult to remove, and more likely to cause complications during surgery.

When this point in time arrives, however, is highly dependent upon a patient’s circumstances, including the preventative measures a patient takes pre- and post-diagnosis, the rapidity of their cataract’s onset, and the underlying cause of the cataract(s), etc.

However, most patients become frustrated by visual impairment (and ready for cataract surgery) long before the cataract reaches a hyper-mature stage. In fact, a 2007 study demonstrated that patients who waited 6 more months than their counterparts to have cataract surgery were more likely to experience falls and to report a decreased quality of life. 

Is it better to have cataract surgery early? 

If the answer to the question Can you wait too long to have cataract surgery? is “yes,” then when is the right time to have cataract surgery? Again, this will depend on the health of your eye and the nature of your cataracts.

It may also depend on your personal preferences; in their early stages, cataracts may not hinder a patient’s vision to the point that they want surgery. When this occurs, some ophthalmologists may actually recommend that you wait before getting your cataract(s) removed.

However, it’s important that you and your ophthalmologist keep an eye on the progression of the cataract(s)/your eye health once it’s discovered that you’re developing them. Some cataracts can induce glaucoma, while others can make it difficult for your ophthalmologist to check on the health of your retina.

For these and other reasons, the decision to have or not have your cataract(s) removed is one you make with your ophthalmologist should make together. 

What is the average age for cataract surgery 

While most people are first diagnosed with cataracts in their 40s, the average age for cataract surgery hovers around 65. Recent investigations, however, show that the average age for cataract surgery may actually be decreasing. Regardless, surgeons typically do not recommend that their patients wait until they reach the average age for cataract surgery; they recommend having cataract surgery when the time is right for your eye health and your vision.  

Is it possible to have cataract surgery in both eyes at once? 

Yes! In recent years, it has become increasingly common for patients to have cataract surgery in both eyes simultaneously. But again, it’s best to make this decision with the help of your ophthalmologist. The ophthalmologists at Eye Center of Texas will be happy to discuss all of your cataract surgery options, from having cataract surgery in both eyes at once to multifocal cataract surgery and more. 

Is it time for you to get cataract surgery? Ask the leading cataract surgeons at Eye Center of Texas

If you’ve been wondering “can you wait too long to have cataract surgery?” because your cataracts are impairing your vision, we encourage you to give the trusted Houston ophthalmologists a call. 

Our Houston cataract surgeons have performed well over 80,000 successful cataract procedures and have earned a reputation for being some of the best cataract surgeons in the country.

Put your vision and your future in experienced hands. Call 713-797-1010 or contact us online to request an appointment today.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

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• Why Is My Vision Getting Worse? 
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For patients who need cataract surgery done in both eyes, most doctors prefer to wait a few days between operating on the first eye and the second eye. But with the increasing popularity of procedures such as LASIK, during which many patients can have both eyes operated on in the same day, more and more people are asking, “Can you get cataract surgery for both eyes at once?”

The answer to this question isn’t straightforward for all practices. Learn why many doctors state that you shouldn’t get cataract surgery for both eyes at once, but others (including those at Eye Center of Texas) think you can and should. 

What if I want to get cataract surgery in both eyes at once…?

Patients who live far away from their doctor or who find that visiting doctors to be an intensely stressful experience have good reason to want cataract surgery performed on both eyes at once. In fact, the desire for same-day cataract surgeries on both eyes has gotten so popular that it has its own acronym: SBCS (simultaneous [or sequential] bilateral cataract surgery), also referred to as SB. 

Risk is the deterring factor for most doctors who are hesitant to perform SBCS. While cataract surgery is safe and complications from cataract surgery are rare, many doctors are wary that SBCS makes patients more vulnerable to eye infections, some of them potentially blinding. 

Another reason some doctors prefer to wait between surgeries is that doing so gives them the opportunity to make adjustments to the procedure on the second eye, which is based on the eye’s reaction to the first eye. Out of concern for the health of your eyes, ECOT still prefers to wait a bit between the two surgeries to ensure their success. 

How long do you have to wait between eyes for cataract surgery? 

The cataract surgery recovery time varies from patient to patient, but most people are able to adjust to their cataract-less vision in about two weeks. Your doctor will likely want sight from your first eye to recover before performing surgery on the second eye. Following best practices for post-operative cataract surgery care will minimize your recovery time. 

(For an example of best practices for post-operative cataract surgery, check out our article that answers the question, “When can I go swimming after cataract surgery?”) 

Can cataract surgery be repeated?

Because it requires the removal of your cloudy lens, cataract surgery cannot be reversed or repeated. That said, cataract surgery is one of the safest and most common types of surgery in the nation. However, if a patient discovers they have issues with their replacement lens, they can have their IOL adjusted or changed. For more information on IOLs, read our posts on cataract surgery and multifocal lens pros and cons, monofocal lens implants, and astigmatism-correcting lenses. 

What will happen if my cataract is left untreated? 

While the question, “Can you get cataract surgery for both eyes at once?” is still up for debate, most doctors will agree that you shouldn’t leave your cataracts untreated; untreated cataracts can lead to total blindness.

That said, not all types of cataract surgery are the same. Eye Center of Texas was one of the first centers to offer bladeless cataract surgery (which is the safest and most precise means of removing cataracts), and the center continues to be a pioneer in cataract surgery treatments. 

Considering cataract surgery in Houston? Have questions about cataract surgery costs? Over 300 Houston-area doctors choose to refer their patients to Eye Center of Texas for their vision needs. Call us today at 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today. 

Related Resources: 

• Protect Your Eyes in Summer
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Cataracts come with a slew of frustrating symptoms, but can cataracts cause headaches?

While it’s very unlikely that your headache stems from cataracts, cataracts can indirectly cause headaches. In these cases, having your cataracts treated by a Houston cataracts specialist may provide some relief from your headaches.

Explore how cataracts can cause headaches, learn more about early signs of cataracts, and discover which eye conditions are the likely culprits behind headaches.

How can cataracts cause headaches?

OK, so how can cataracts cause headaches, even indirectly? Your body often tries to compensate for vision loss due to cataracts. In some cases, it can do so in ways that can create headaches. Specifically, you may squint to improve your focus or, conversely, raise your brows to let in more light. Both of these reactions can create headaches.

Additionally, when your cataracts are bad enough to negatively affect your vision, they may change the efficacy of your glasses, leading to a headache as your eye works harder to see.

Can cataracts cause ocular migraines?

No, cataracts do not cause ocular migraines. Ocular migraines are caused by a reduction in blood flow in the blood vessels of the eye. While ocular migraines may result in blurred vision that’s not entirely dissimilar to the blurred vision caused by cataracts, the blurred vision caused by ocular migraines should subside along with the migraine.

What are the typical cataract symptoms?

Are you concerned that you may have cataracts? If so, you may be wondering, “What is the first sign of cataracts?” Cataract symptoms vary from person-to-person, but you’re more likely to experience any of the following symptoms long before you experience a cataract-induced headache:

• Blurred, cloudy, or double vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Fading or yellowing of colors
• Frequent prescription changes  
• Halos
• Light sensitivity

Exhibit none of these symptoms? Good! Maintain your good eye health and brush up on how to avoid cataracts.

What eye conditions do cause headaches?

While it’s unlikely that your headaches are caused by cataracts, there are other eye problems that are more likely to induce headaches:

• Angle-closure glaucoma
• Eye strain
• Ocular migraines
• Presbyopia (near vision)  

Expert Cataract treatment in Houston

Can cataracts cause headaches? While the answer may be “rarely,” that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. The best way to find out if your headaches are caused by cataracts is to visit a professional (especially if you notice that you’re struggling with other cataract symptoms).

The surgeons at Eye Center of Texas provide some of the best cataract treatment in Houston, including treatment for fast-growing cataracts. With over 800,000 successful laser eye surgery procedures for cataracts, there’s no doubt that you’re putting your vision and eye health in capable hands.

Ready to see clearly again? Call Eye Center of Texas 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today!                                                                                     

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Just because cataracts can be a natural part of the aging process doesn’t mean you shouldn’t remain on the lookout for the early signs of cataracts. Discover the top three early signs of cataracts, including what those signs may look like (cataract pictures provided) and how to address those signs.

For more information on the early signs of cataracts (including fast-growing cataracts), take a look at our previous articles.

What are the first signs of cataracts?

1. General changes in vision quality

The early sign of cataracts that brings in the most patients are general concerns about changes in vision quality: the inability to see distant objects clearly, sensitivity to light, double vision, and halos around lights at nighttime. These changes are rarely drastic, and many patients assume that they simply need a change in prescription.

2. Blurred / cloudy vision

The first sign of cataracts will vary from person to person, but the next sign is usually blurriness. Blurred vision from cataracts occurs due to the buildup and clumping of proteins in your eye’s lens, which will block light from reaching your retina.

At first, only part of your vision may be blurred, but this area will likely grow over time if your cataract(s) remain untreated.

3. Eye discoloration

Eye discoloration is easily the most visible early sign of cataracts. The buildup of proteins may cause your lens to begin to yellow or brown. Unlike the other early signs of cataracts, however, your family and friends may be able to spot lens discoloration. It’s not uncommon for us to meet patients who have come to visit us due to the urging of individuals close to them.

This image shows what a cataract looks like in an advanced stage.

Catching and treating cataracts

Not all eye doctors are advocates for early cataract surgery. Depending on the types of cataract a patient is facing and the severity of vision loss they’re contending with, your doctor may opt to wait for a later date.

At the same time, many patients feel that the earlier you treat cataracts, the fewer sights you’ll miss out on. Ultimately, whether or not to pursue cataract surgery is a decision that should be made between you and your doctor.

In the meantime, we highly recommend learning how to avoid cataracts naturally and reading up on cataracts and sun exposure.

Laser eye surgery for cataracts and Eye Center of Texas

Eye Center of Texas provides the latest in blade-free cataract treatment: laser eye surgery for cataracts. Our nationally-recognized surgeons have performed over 80,000 successful laser cataract surgeries and are recommended by over 300 referring doctors.

Miss less of life’s special moments. Call us at 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today to get started on your journey to better vision.

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Houstonians will be pleased to discover that the Houston cataract surgeons at Eye Center of Texas are some of the best in the country. Not only do over 300 Houston-area doctors refer their patients to Eye Center of Texas for their vision needs, but our surgeons play active roles in pioneering the latest in vision correction technology.

Learn all about our Houston cataract treatment options and more, and start your cataract surgery journey off on the right foot.

What are cataracts?

Cataracts are a natural part of your eye’s aging process. In fact, over 50% of individuals at or above the age of 60 will develop a cataract in one or both eyes. Blurred vision, which is due to a clouding of your eye’s natural lens, is the main symptom of cataracts.

While most cataracts develop slowly over many years, individuals with certain conditions may be susceptible to fast-growing cataracts. Luckily, the fact that cataracts are common means that cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed eye surgeries in the world.

Laser cataract surgery in Houston

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive here at Eye Center of Texas is, “Is cataract surgery safe?” We are happy to report that, when performed by professionals, both traditional and laser cataract surgery are very safe procedures.

When comparing laser cataract surgery vs. traditional cataract surgery, however, many surgeons would argue that laser cataract surgery is a more accurate procedure. That’s because laser cataract surgery is blade-free. The Eye Center of Texas surgeons use the state-of-the-art LenSx femtosecond laser to customize your cataract surgery to the specific needs of your eye.

Lens replacement surgery in Houston

During cataract surgery, your doctor will remove your eye’s cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The standard replacement lens is the monofocal IOL. However, some patients may prefer a multifocal IOL or need a Toric IOL lens for astigmatism. Talk with your doctor about which IOL will best fit the needs of your eyes.

Finding experienced cataract surgeons in Houston

When researching cataract surgery and cataract surgery cost, we highly recommend researching your area’s cataract surgeon ratings. Not all cataract surgeons are the same, and you will want to make sure that you’re leaving your vision in qualified hands.

The Houston cataract surgeons at Eye Center of Texas have collectively performed over 80,000 successful cataract surgeries, and they frequently top the local “Best Cataract Surgeons Near Me” lists.

We are proud to have returned clear vision to the lives of so many Houstonians, and we are pleased to be able to do so without adding stress to a household’s budget. Expenses that aren’t covered by Medicare or health insurance are made manageable with Eye Center of Texas’s monthly payment plans via Care Credit.

Houston Cataracts don’t stand a chance at Eye Center of Texas  

It’s time to see life’s priceless moments with clear vision again. For more information about Houston cataract surgery at Eye Center of Texas, call 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today!

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