Glaucoma is caused by fluid pressure inside the eye that can damage the optic nerve, leading to partial or total vision loss. Individuals living with glaucoma can also develop cataracts, and when these two eye conditions happen concurrently, vision is dramatically impaired. Patients often ask if it is safe to have cataract surgery while living with glaucoma, and the short answer is yes.
In fact, for many people with both conditions, cataract surgery can significantly improve vision and even help manage glaucoma symptoms. Read on to learn more.
Cataract Surgery and Glaucoma: The Benefits of This Procedure
Cataract surgery involves removing the eye’s natural lens that has become cloudy and replacing it with a clear lens. Some of the main benefits include:
Improved Vision
Cataract surgery removes blurriness from vision, and many patients report that it also improves the vividness of colors. One of the additional benefits of having cataract surgery is that it may also improve some of the symptoms of glaucoma.
“For glaucoma patients, these vision improvements can make a huge difference, especially if some of their vision is already gone,” said Dr. Omar Gayasaddin of Florida Eye Specialists. “It’s a great benefit for patients to get a lot out of one procedure, rather than have multiple surgeries.”
Advanced Lens Options
When considering cataract surgery for patients with glaucoma, it’s important to note that recent advancements in lens technology offer significant benefits. While traditional lens implants are clear and straightforward, custom options are now available, such as the Light Adjustable Lens™. This innovative technology allows patients to “test drive” their vision before finalizing their prescription. This means you can select the prescription that best suits your lifestyle and visual needs after cataract surgery, potentially eliminating the need for glasses or contacts entirely.
Reduce Glaucoma Symptoms
Cataract surgery can bring long-term relief for glaucoma patients by lowering eye pressure. While it’s possible to see a temporary increase in eye pressure right after the surgery, this is manageable with proper care and medication. However, the specific impact on glaucoma can vary depending on the individual’s overall condition and treatment plan.
“Anytime you have eye surgery, your eye pressure can fluctuate,” said Dr. Gayasaddin. “If you have severe glaucoma, that’s something to take into account, but your cataract surgeon will be aware and can help mitigate that risk.”
At Florida Eye Specialists, our dedicated ophthalmologists will help you with follow-up instructions to ensure the best treatment plan before and after your cataract surgery.
Improving Glaucoma With Cataract Surgery
After cataract surgery, glaucoma patients might need fewer medications, and some might not need any at all. However, it’s important not to assume that eye pressure will stay low or that medications are no longer necessary. Regular check-ups with your eye doctor are essential to keep your eyes healthy and ensure the right treatment.
Cataract Surgery With MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery)
For patients dealing with both glaucoma and cataracts, addressing both conditions surgically at the same time can be a convenient and effective approach. In such cases, an ophthalmologist may recommend combining cataract surgery with minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).
“MIGS can be performed during cataract surgery because the surgeon can access the eye’s drainage system at the same time,” said Dr. Gayasaddin. ”It’s a dual benefit – improving eye pressure while removing the cataract.”
By integrating MIGS with cataract surgery, patients can potentially achieve significant improvements in vision and better manage their glaucoma symptoms in a single treatment session. Always consult with your ophthalmologist to determine the best approach for your individual needs.
Contact Florida Eye Specialists Today
If you have glaucoma and cataracts, discuss your options with the experienced and knowledgeable eye surgeons at Florida Eye Specialists to see how we can help improve your vision and your life. Our glaucoma specialists, like Dr. Freidl, Dr. Shetty, Dr. Gayasaddin, and Dr. Koike are dedicated to providing comprehensive care.
Florida Eye Specialists has been voted the best eye care practice for nine years in a row and is the largest glaucoma practice in the region. Schedule an appointment at one of our many area locations, including in Fernandina Beach, Mandarin, Ponte Vedra Beach, St. Augustine, Palm Coast and Ormond Beach, Florida.
