Vision Source Mandan Blog

Ask Dr. Schauer ~ Can Cataracts Come Back?

“My father is 83 and recently had cataract surgery. Now his eyesight is fine but he does still have to wear glasses. Is there a chance his cataracts will return?”

First, let’s review!
 

What is a cataract?

A cataract is a yellowing and/or thickening of the crystalline lens inside of the eye. The lens of the eye sits right behind the colored part of your eye (the iris). The lens structure normally is clear throughout life. It is what helps you focus to see near objects clearly (until after age 40…..)

It is normal that aging will cause the lens to get yellow and cloudy over time, and cause an age-related cataract. At some point, it will start to negatively affect vision. Colors will not be as bright as they used to be and vision will be blurry. This is the time to have a conversation with your optometrist about having the cataracts removed with surgery.
 

Can cataracts come back?

The good news is that cataract surgery is pretty much a one-time deal. Once the lens is removed during surgery, there is no possibility that a cataract can form again.

However, approximately 50% of the time, some patients can experience a slight secondary “cataract” months or years after cataract surgery, although it is not truly a cataract. This is a clouding of the capsule that was left behind for the implant to sit in. Fortunately, this secondary “cataract” is easily removed in a few seconds with a laser. Many patients refer to this procedure as a “touch up” after cataract surgery. This procedure is also a one-time deal. Once the capsule has been opened with the laser, it is not possible for haziness to return.
 

Will I need glasses after cataract surgery?

Some patients will still require the use of eyeglasses after cataract surgery. Most people will notice their vision is markedly better after cataract surgery and they may have a reduced eyeglass prescription. It depends on the individual person and depends on the implant chosen.

At Vision Source Mandan, our optometrists can answer any question you may have about cataract surgery.

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

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My annual eye exam is always an excellent experience with Dr. Danielle Dyke. The exam is always thorough, and Dr. Dyke takes the time to explain my eye health in a way I can understand. The Vision Source eye clinic is modern, clean, and the staff is very welcoming. I always feel comfortable and well-cared for at my appointment. I highly recommend Dr. Dyke and Vision Source!

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Dr. Schauer did an amazing job getting my eye infection cleared up. As I sat in my room waiting my turn, because I had a last minute appointment, I could hear her working with a family next door that had young kids.

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Whenever I have had eye issues, they have made efforts to get me in asap. Which I really appreciate. I have had Dr. Aberle and Dr. Dyke and they are both excellent. Recently, I saw Dr. Aberle for a chronic eye problem in one eye & he fixed the problem. Honestly, it felt like a miracle. The office staff is also very pleasant to deal with.

Sheila S.

I've literally been a lifelong customer since 5th grade when it was Dr. Little! Dr. Schauer has taken over since Dr. Little retired. It's always a good, friendly experience with all of the staff there. I've never had a bad experience.

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The front desk people are very nice and friendly got called in to see Wayne before my appointment time Vision Source has very friendly staff and the clinic is very clean will always be a patient to Vision Source.

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I was greeted by the front desk very efficiently. The person who did the first part of my history and did the testing like the little spritz in my eyes, etc, was very good. I really like my eye doctor, I feel that I get all my questions answered as well as she explains what she is seeing when she is examining my eyes.

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