Why Patients Are Getting Cataract Surgery Younger

While cataract surgery patients have traditionally been in their 70s or 80s, a study by the Mayo Clinic found that the average age is gradually dropping. The eye team at TRES VISION Group can attest to this trend, having treated patients who are in their 40s, 50s and 60s for their cataracts. Our ophthalmologists explain some of the reasons patients are seeking treatment earlier than in the past:

Cataracts Only Get Worse

Unfortunately, cataracts get progressively worse the older a patient gets. While the cloudiness a patient experiences currently may seem tolerable, that may not be the case within a matter of years. A patient who understands that cataract surgery is likely inevitable — and also knows that cataracts cannot return after surgery — has incentive to have the surgery younger rather than waiting.

Cataract Surgery Is Safer Than Ever

The precision and effectiveness of cataract surgery have improved over the years, due in large part to doctors swapping out their scalpels for state-of-the-art, computer-guided lasers. In the past, it was understandable that patients may choose to wait until they absolutely needed to have cataract surgery given that there were more risks and greater potential for complications involved. Considering cataract surgery’s remarkable track record, it makes no sense to postpone.

Recovery Is Easier

A younger body generally responds better to most types of surgery, and cataract surgery is no exception. Patients who have cataract surgery earlier have an easier time recovering from the procedure. They are also able to reattain their sight and resume normal activity sooner than those who wait until their 70s and 80s to have the surgery.

Better IOL Options

Patients who have refractive errors in addition to cataracts may see extra value in getting cataract surgery sooner. That is because there are a variety of premium intraocular lenses (IOLs) that are capable of correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. These IOLs not only replace cloudy, natural lenses, but also allow patients to see better without contact lenses or eyeglasses.

Interested in Cataract Surgery?

The ophthalmologists at TRES VISION Group regularly assist cataracts patients of all ages. If you are ready to tackle your hazy lenses with cataract surgery, schedule a consultation with our team by calling (321) 984-3200 or emailing appointments@tresvision.com.