Signs It's Time for Cataract Surgery

If you're experiencing cloudy vision or have started noticing halos around lights, you may need more than a stronger glasses prescription. These changes are classic signs of cataracts. 

But how do you know when it's time for cataract surgery? When symptoms start disrupting your daily routine or interfering with tasks like reading or driving, it may be time to consider treatment. 

At Pennsylvania Surgery and Laser Center, our skilled team offers advanced cataract surgery options, including intraocular lens technology, to help you regain sharp, comfortable vision. Call now to learn about your options and schedule a consultation in Philadelphia, PA. We're committed to personalized care and ensuring the best possible results. 

What are cataracts? 

Cataracts form when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, usually due to aging. As the lens loses clarity, it scatters light, leading to distorted or blurry vision. This condition usually progresses slowly, which is why some patients don't realize how much their vision has changed until the cataract has advanced. 

Cataracts are very common, and fortunately, they are treatable with a straightforward outpatient procedure. 

Common signs it's time for cataract surgery 

While early cataracts can often be managed with new eyeglass prescriptions or brighter lighting, surgery becomes necessary when symptoms begin affecting your daily life. Some of the most common signs include:  

• Persistent cloudy vision or blurriness 
• Difficulty driving at night because of halos around lights 
• Increased sensitivity to light or glare 
• Struggling to read, watch TV, or recognize faces 
• Frequent changes in your glasses prescription that don't help 

If any of these issues sound familiar, it may be time to consult with a specialist in Philadelphia, PA. Our team at Pennsylvania Surgery and Laser Center can perform an assessment to determine the severity of your cataracts and whether surgery is the right option. 

How long does cataract surgery take? 

Cataract surgery is a safe and efficient outpatient procedure. But how long does cataract surgery take? The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes per eye. After administering local anesthesia, our surgeons make a tiny incision, remove the cloudy lens, and replace it with a clear artificial intraocular lens. 

Thanks to modern techniques and technology, the process is quick, comfortable, and highly effective. Most patients are able to return home shortly after the procedure. 

What happens after cataract surgery 

Recovery after cataract surgery is typically smooth. Most patients notice clearer vision within a few days, although healing may take a few weeks. It's common to experience mild discomfort, sensitivity to light, or blurred vision at first, but these effects usually resolve quickly. 

Our staff will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including how to use prescribed eye drops and what activities to avoid. Follow-up appointments help ensure that your healing is on track and that your new lens is functioning as expected. 

Get clearer vision with cataract surgery 

If you've been dealing with cloudy vision, sensitivity to light, or halos around lights, don't wait for things to get worse. Cataract surgery can restore clarity and improve your quality of life. 

Whether you have questions such as, "How long does cataract surgery take?" or want to learn about the latest intraocular lens options, Pennsylvania Surgery and Laser Center is here to help. Call now to book a consultation in Philadelphia, PA, and learn whether it's the right time to move forward.