Cataracts cloud the natural lens of the eye, and occur as a natural part of the eye's aging process. They cause blurred vision that happens slowly so that most people do not realize their vision has decreased until they have a difficult time reading or doing fine, detailed work. Surgery remains the only way to eliminate cataracts. The procedure is simple, but, like any surgery, it comes with risks and possible complications.
Infection
After cataract surgery, some patients develop an infection inside the eye called endophthalmitis. This is not a surface irritation like "pink eye" or allergies, but feels like a deep ache inside the eye itself, similar to how a toothache might feel. Many doctors prescribe drops for patients to use before and after surgery to prevent infection and they also take extensive precautions during the procedure. The infection usually appears a few days after surgery and patients should contact their eye surgeon immediately to prevent damage to the eye.
Vision
Before cataract surgery, the doctor or one of his technicians takes measurements of the eye, reports the University of Washington, Department of Ophthalmology. These measurements tell the doctor what power of lens should replace the natural lens that has turned cloudy from the cataract. Eye surgeons determine the right power of lens that will allow patients to see well with less dependence on eyeglasses. If the measurements were not correct, vision may become worse after surgery. This may require a stronger glasses correction after surgery than what the patient needed prior to surgery. Most doctors will not replace the lens inside the eye since the complicated process may cause damage to the eye.
Retinal Detachment
After cataract surgery, patients have a slightly higher risk for a retinal detachment. The retina consists of a fine layer of nerves that lines the back of the eye. If the retina detaches, symptoms may include flashes of light and many new floaters in the vision. Retinal detachments may also cause an area of vision to become black. These symptoms may indicate other eye conditions, but all of them together usually indicate a retinal detachment, says the National Eye Institute. Detachments require immediate attention, and, if left untreated, may cause permanent vision loss.
