Top 5 Reasons Patients REGRET Cataract Surgery, and How to Avoid Them

[@piperv2522]

When I had cataract surgery, I was 68. I was terrified, but when I went in the room, they made everything feel better. I was able to see right after I had it. It was a miracle and it’s been a miracle ever since.

[@Bobrogers99]

I had cataract surgery at age 70, and I now see better than I have all my previous life. Since age 9 or 10 I needed glasses for distance. My distance vision at age 86 is still 20/20, though I do wear glasses for reading. I'm quite happy with the tradeoff, and I have no regrets about the surgery.

[@timradde4328]

Similar. I had it done at age 60. I am 68 now. Mine was very fast in my right eye. I did not have much choice. I see just fine out of it now. I also had Lasik done in 2015 (I think). I couldn't even see the big E on the eye chart. Forget reading a clock across the room. I now see just fine, but do have to wear reading glasses. This was a fine trade for me.

[@GenKrug-bl8mq]

@@timradde4328 COULD NOT AGREE MORE!!!🙏👌

[@cdstoc]

Same with me, but I had the surgery at 59. My vision is better than it’s ever been.

[@JeffJensen55]

Exact thing for me - surgery done at 67, 70 now.

[@georgjrgensen8507]

Same for me too. I had it done a year ago in our local hospital (Netherlands). Although I always had good eyesight, it is now much better. I only use (cheap!) reading glasses, but that's all. I am 77 now.

[@janetf9076]

I’m still shocked at how well I can see after my surgery 2 years ago. I would do it again in a heartbeat! I love my surgeon. ❤

[@jefflaymon5674]

I am extremely happy with my cataract surgery. I had astigmatism. I chose distance lenses. I got better than 20/20. I was very nearsighted before. I can see my phone ok but use glasses if I need a closer look. My vision is better than I ever dreamed it could ever be. I had both eyes done and I am extremely satisfied with my surgery.

[@alicelabine4201]

I had cataract surgery and my vision is awesome!😊

[@4potslite169]

I had cataract surgery on my right eye 3 yrs ago…had a vitreal separation at sometime during the week after the surgery (before the eyepatch was removed) and ended up with MASSIVE thick floaters. I still had the untreated cataract in the other eye, so I lost about 70% of my vision…only able to see colors and shadows with the eye I had “fixed.” Couldn’t drive, couldn’t see where I was at night if I went outdoors, so I had to stop leaving the house after dark. Couldn’t see well enough to even take a bus to work (or to even work for that matter) so had to take a leave of absence. (I’m single with no other income) Just trying to walk down the sidewalk, I fell off curbs, stumbled on uneven pavement and grass and stairs, and everything. I twice fell so badly that I sprained an ankle and then broke my nose. I had a very difficult time just getting around my own apartment. It’s been 3 yrs…areas of the floaters have improved, but there are still rainbows, halos, glare, and everything is milky. My vision is drastically better w the eye that still has a cataract. My advice is to carefully consider the negative outcomes than can occur and wait until you really really need something done. Have some long thoughtful discussions w your Dr. and don’t jump into surgery before you absolutely need. Wait until it’s REALLY a problem.

[@baratono]

Both eyes done at 70. Toric monofocal lenses in both eyes. Very happy with the result. 20|20 distance vision in both eyes. Had progressive glasses made up with 0.0 on the top and +3.5 readers on the bottom. Works great. I did have some dry eye for a few months in both eyes. Best decision that I've ever made (besides marrying the wife). 😊

[@islanddreamer5930]

Thankyou....sounds like what you did will work for me. Ive worn glasses since 5th grade.(Im fine with wearing glasses).....So as i see it...I can still wear glasses and not lose my near vision?....sounds good to me.

[@landiscourington4514]

I had both eyes done about 10 yrs ago- went with what Medicare paid for, Dr told me I might need readers(CVS type) for small print and I do- he set my sunglasses at tweaked out distance, wear sunglasses all the time- I don’t know how I could be more pleased, everything just like my ophthalmologist told me it would be! By the way- I am 82

[@BrendaJordan-x5o]

I bought “progressive readers” and am very pleased with them. Some seemed a little expensive for readers, but I found some on Amazon that were 3 pair for around $20. Excellent buy. 😊

[@jerrilynhenson9024]

I do not regret having it done. I don’t wear glasses any more. I started at age 12. Had my surgery at 78. I’m 80 now. ❤

[@laurapollreisz491]

I started wearing glasses at 8, had Cataract surgery at 58. Was nice not to have to wear glasses, but then I had to wear reading glasses for pretty much ever but walking and driving. Now I've had to go back to wearing regular glasses @ 64, it's been really hard getting used to them again and now I also have new challenges with them.

[@zoftigbeatnik]

I had cataract surgery a year ago at 60 on both eyes. My left had a full blown cataract in it and the right was just starting. My eye surgeon was great and told me everything that would happen. The surgery staff was excellent and made me feel comfortable. I have never seen better and I had worn glasses since I was 10.

[@MissConstru]

Do they put u to sleep to do the surgery... I am the scared type

[@umaranimallampalli2491]

@@MissConstruno. They numb the eyes with an aesthetic drops. Very easy surgery. I was frightened too. But it was very easy. I coul walk out in 20 minutes.

[@Goldensunshine935]

My optometrist told me last year I am starting to get a cataract in one eye. I have severe astigmatism and have also worn glasses since age 10. Am just finding out that removing a cataract means the lenses get replaced?? Seriously? This would be amazing!

[@Rivergirl168]

@@umaranimallampalli2491 I also got sedation by IV.

[@george-n2m2ig]

Right eye done at 85. The dr. told me that I'd have nearly 20/20 vision. He said that because of the shape of my retina, he had to insert a "special" lens. I now see worse with my right eye than I did before the surgery 9 months ago. I have almost no distance vision in my right eye and can use it only for reading with glasses. He actually had the nerve to suggest I should have the left eye done. I'd never let him near my eyes again. I went to another Dr. who told me that the cataract in my left eye wasn't "ripe" enough to remove it. The first dr. is considered the best ophthalmologist in town. If he's the "best," I can't imagine what the others are like.

[@cecillec2331]

It's a for profit endeavor, a business. If you get an altruistic caregiver that's the only time you get lucky. I avoid Rockefeller AMA in every shape or form, and I retired from it. As a kid I saw my brother who was already an MD as a Big Pharma salesman. A pill for every illness that is never cured, but maintained. I am old and I do not take any medications, have any surgery, or even see anyone. I will die in my own bed. I have health insurance because Newsom Gruesome will fine me during tax filing season if I didn't have one. I am not afraid to die because we NEVER die. Our consciousness is eternal. This physical clothing does expire and we have to exit it. We've done it time and time again.

[@tamarlindsay8382]

There are good ones but even those you have to be firm with. It is possible to have it redone and the correct lens inserted! Not cheap but it can be done.

[@george-n2m2ig]

@ I've had enough surgeries in my life and none of them have been successful. I'll pass on having any more.

[@KMaddox]

Sadly, Dr Chua, the majority of doctors do not take the time to speak with patients because they have to see too many patients in a day. One doctor told me, when I said that I needed to think about what I wanted to do and that I may come back to speak again with him, that he can't be spending all this time with me as he has other patients and maybe he can do 5-10 minute consultation. They are rushed, they rush us. They don't want us to "think" about things, they just want to tell us what to do. Unfortunately, most people, especially older folks, go along with this and those that question things and want to make a good decision WITH the doctor find that can be difficult.

[@Jay-bo1gs]

You are a much better doc than most. My mother's surgeon had ZERO conversations about what type of lens and just gave her the cheapest monofocal available. Doc was bigoted and assumed she couldn't afford anything else. Resulting vision was terrible.

[@seabreeze7378]

Yep I’ve had two appts over years and never was a type of lens talked about and I actually want my vision more for close up as I work from home and rarely drive 🤷‍♀️

[@momkatmax]

Replacement lenses were cutting edge technology when my Mom had her surgery. She surprised her doctor by requesting it. He said he didn't do it, and it was experimental at that time, done only in a very few centers. She didn't qualify, unfortunately, due to having a stage 3 cataract. Now, of course, that doesn't matter.

[@blueskysailing]

Same thing for me. I had the cataract surgery in both eyes at about the age of 60 and I only found out later that I could have got lenses that would require no need for eyeglasses. I was never told about them. I would have got those in a heartbeat. 🙁

[@valeriej7720]

Starting wearing glasses when I was 7. Had cataract surgery at 64. Some negatives with regard to close vision and yes, I need readers for close up. But I no longer need glass for driving, TV etc. Definitely glad I had it done.

[@BigPJ56]

Very informative, and clearly explained. Thank you very much for taking the time to produce this and your other videos on this subject.

[@Thfeyhvfdetyhbvcd]

Reason #6: Failure to keep follow up appointments! I just had my one year follow up appointment and I’m so glad I did! I thought it was perhaps my imagination, but my vision seemed very slightly fuzzy both near and far. Additionally, slight halos started to appear at night. Again, very minor but they did have me concerned. Well, during the one year followup, I learned that some scar tissue had formed on my Toric lenses. The (permanent ?) solution will be a brief appointment for laser treatment in each eye; a not uncommon post surgical necessity. I will have these done next week. Reason #6: Not researching your choice of Opthomologist. In my case, I opted to go with a opthomologist who has performed 50,000 (not a typo) cataract surgeries in his lifetime at a world renowned eye surgery center. And … he covered everything you explained in this video, in depth, and more!

[@LifetimeWW]

Where did you go?

[@Thfeyhvfdetyhbvcd]

@ St Luke’s Cataract and Laser Institute Tarpon Springs Florida.

[@BethCollier31]

​@LifetimeWW .... I went to Dr Atwal in Buffalo NY. Outstanding eye surgeon!

[@marymacdonald2379]

I was myopic from age 5 or 6 and had cataract surgery in 2015, by a top eye surgeon. His measuring technician took a long time to get the prescription data. After a lifetime of myopia, my distance vision new lenses gave me 20/20 vision, which held for eight years. Even now, my distance vision has only slipped slightly. Not bad for 75 year old eyes.

[@firefly5574]

Multi focal implants are super fantastic and suit me so perfectly. No spectacles needed for anything now. Halos at nights are minimal and actually quite beautiful and so much better than when compared with the mess of scattered lights I’d see at nights with untreated bilateral cataracts.

[@mollytejana]

This helps me so much to understand. Cataract surgery 2 months ago, age 71. Video covered all my (I thought) problems. Use eye drops for first time, ever. The floaters concerned me, no more knowing what he explained. My insurance paid for the cheapest lenses. But after watching this video, the tradeoffs are okay and I'm glad I had the surgery to see a clear distance. One and done, no more upgrading prescription glasses. I don't need them. Thank you, Dr. Chua.

[@marilynmicoletti2812]

Cataract surgery was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made - because of an excellent doctor. Skill matters! N

[@oaxaca1948]

I don't expect my vision to be perfect but I do expect to see better after cataract surgery.

[@dogsense3773]

At age 61 had mine done,I can say, colors are brighter than they were, now age 69

[@momkatmax]

One friend has just had one eye done and remarked that colors were noticeably brighter due to that yellowed lens being removed. He was looking at the gas range flame, opening the operated eye, then the non operated. His wife was puzzled at him winking at the stove until he gleefully said the flame was such a pretty blue.

[@Thfeyhvfdetyhbvcd]

Yes! Vivid colors of the flowers the morning after surgery was a real surprise! And the beautiful colors of all the lit up signs at night.

[@sparker7768]

😅​@@momkatmax

[@momkatmax]

@@sparker7768 A range flirting 🫦

[@FR-tb7xh]

Thank you for this fabulous video. I’m glad it came up in my feed. After 50 years wearing glasses and regular eye exams, my vision had gotten particularly bad this past year. My ophthalmologist told me I need cataract surgeries. I was shocked, and told her I needed to research before scheduling anything. The few friends I’ve spoken to who’ve had the surgery seem to almost dismiss the gravity of messing with their eyes. But I had a colleague whom had double Lasik surgery and it went horribly wrong. It was so bad, she couldn’t work anymore. In hindsight, she was a poor candidate for the surgery, and hadn’t been informed of the risks going in. Your video is exactly the info I need to start understanding the lenses and patient expectations. Edit: I had no idea cataract surgery could actually change a prescription. I just thought it would make my existing eyeglasses work again!

[@annamariaiannacito5291]

You, Dr. Chua, showed up here, like a needed gift! I'm making plans for the surgery, and listening to you, sharing the facts with calm understanding, has helped me. I need to listen to your video a few times and take notes, and will feel less daunted when I have my first appointment. Thank you!! I wish I lived in the opposite end of the state. 🌹

[@cjlayne]

I had cataract surgery and for the first time since I was 16 and got my driver's license (I am 78 now), I was able to pass the vision test without glasses when I renewed my license!! I am ecstatic!!!

[@margaretjohnson6259]

i'll put off cataract surgery for as long as possible. my bifocals still do a fine job. thank you for the information.

[@richardgreen9330]

I had cataract surgery,, And I can see Great , I started. Wearing glasses when I was twelve,, I got this done when I was 65 I wish I had done it sooner.I can see great. Doctor lou.. Key Whitman... She's the best,❤️❤️❤️..

[@pegs1659]

I'm thrilled with my cataract surgery. I had to wear distance glasses since 4th grade. At 67 I got cataract surgery and opted to be able to see far away. I love not having to wear glasses to drive and being able to wear sunglasses. I do have to wear reading glasses now. It was a great trade off.

[@cindymcoldiron]

I am due to have cataract surgery next month. I was so nervous about anyone touching my eyes now I feel a little less scared. Thank you and I am so happy I stumbled onto your channel. Again, thank you.

[@lgrant2540]

I had both eyes done, and it's the easiest procedure you'll ever have. The drops afterward are a pain in the butt, but getting your teeth cleaned is harder than cataract surgery. No pain, and you get your vision back but better.

[@rcsontag]

When I had cataract surgery I was 78. I was fully confident with the Ophthalmologist and the supporting staff. I also suffer from Glaucoma, which complicated the recovery. Now three months after the surgery, my vision is restored.

[@Bhakti-rider]

Very well presented ("First you tell 'em what you're gonna tell 'em. Then you tell 'em. Then you tell 'em what you told 'em.") I've recently had a consultation with an ophthalmologist who is going to do cataract surgery on my eyes, and these points are pretty much exactly what she told me.

[@AAtta-3286]

Thank you so much Dr Chua! The best explanation of cataract surgery. Very helpful for my wife contemplating cataract surgery in the near future. The explanation of different lenses and the pros and cons was most enlightening. God Bless

[@CitizenTurtleIsland]

I am just about 63 (in Canada) and KZbin decided I need your video. -- You did a phenomenal job!! -- No doubt I will need cararact surgery at some point. I recall my mother needed this. -- I wonder what they'd advise me regarding some moderate double vision issue. In my 30's I was convinced to get glasses with a prism, though I only noticed the double vision with a high fever or extreme tiredness back then. -- Anyway... I wish all educational KZbin videos were of this high calibre. Thank you!

[@janedawson335]

I have a brilliant ophthalmologist who was happy for me to be myopic in one eye and hyperopic in the other ( this was my vision for many years and because it’s been “normal” for me for a long time, it’s worked well). She was prepared to listen and I’m SO happy with the outcome

[@4af]

Incredibly good, balanced, unbiased information. A+ grade!

[@bigtvjunky9119]

Great video. It's so important to take time and understand the options before going in to see the eye doctor for a cataract consultation. A lot of 'vision centers' are set up like assembly lines. Doctors see one patient right after another while the nurses or techs prep the next patients. Take the time to ask questions and make sure you're making the right decisions. It's important to decide what type of vision or end results you want. Make sure you document the type of work or hobbies you enjoy to help decide what type of lens and focus distance will be right for you. Make sure the doctor understands and documents correctly your choices. I don't know if my doctor misunderstood me or took incorrect notes, but she had the wrong focal distance selected. I was able to review the information online and correct the error before my surgery. I was nearsighted in one eye and farsighted in the other eye. I wore glasses/contacts to drive and watch TV, but didn't wear glasses when using my computer or phone. I did use reading glasses to read fine print. My brain was trained to correctly focus on the computer or phone screen w/o glasses. My goal with cataract surgery was to duplicate my natural eyesight. One mono lens for distance and one mono lens for computer/intermediate distance. I was told I might need reading glasses for up close or phone use but that hasn't been necessary. I can even read fine print w/o reading glasses if there is enough light. I also now have 20/20 distance vision in both eyes. Very happy with the results after 14 months.

[@LanierHarper]

Your post is very helpful. Thank you. My eye doctor is also where the eye surgeon is located in a different town. Yes, the assembly line metaphor is accurate because at least on that day, that is what is happening all day. My reason for taking time to write this is that may not be a bad thing and the doctor takes the most difficult patients first and the emergency cases also come first and the office staff tells the patients who come in that the Doctor had an emergency case today with a child for example when I took my wife in for her surgery. No it was not for a cataract either. My wife was getting a second opinion at a office that was very upscale and they had a fine selection of eyeglass frames and my wife liked the premium frames but it was there that she did feel that she was being moved into the assembly line for her cataracts. We did not find out there and had a wonderful experience. The other part about this for me is I am doing my research now for myself at age 75. Many of the reviews say that they wish that they had not waited. The person that encourages you to go ahead sooner than later may be giving the best advice. Every day I wait the technology gets better. I am doing light therapy full spectrum vs red light therapy only which is better than to light therapy. You can find a lot of information on KZbin about light therapy and my lady is doing light therapy also. My wife’s non surgeon eye doctor is also carnivore as we are. I am going to Subscribe to Dr Chua. I would certainly see him if I still lived in Southern California.

[@evelyncollins8069]

Thanks for your comment. I'm 73 and my yearly exam doctor mentioned I could have cataract surgery. I have been hesitant to go ahead with it because of the bad outcome results that are reported. I know eating right factors in. I started keto in late 2019. Since then graduated to carnivore. It matters to cut out the seed oils and sugars. I live in Wisconsin and when I do decide to have the surgery I hope I can get a good surgeon. ​@@LanierHarper

[@LanierHarper]

@@evelyncollins8069 keep the carnivore diet going, wishing you all the best

[@Duh331]

I’m 75 had right eye done two weeks ago. I’m having left eye done 2-5. I have macular degeneration also. My right eye is now 20/25. I have mono focal lens on right. My surgeon says I will probably need reading glasses when we are finished. I’m thrilled now can’t wait to get left eye done. Tysm

[@abbeyclock4650]

Great video, thank you! My surgeon corrected an eye pressure problem that could develop into glaucoma, making cataract surgery worthwhile for me two months ago. My prescription went from +7 to -2 and, believe me, I could not be happier about the surgery. I think being a little near sighted is better than focusing at infinity. My surgeon made the right decision.

[@skanderchida9174]

Cataract surgery saved my life. I went from no vision to being able to function again. I have a light Adjustable Lens LAL in my right eye and an Odyssey Lens in my left eye. The rational behind this choice is to have a good mid and far vision with the LAL, and a good close, mid, and far vision with the Odyssey. The light Adjustable will give you an excellent picture qualify and compensates for the night vision halos of the ncoming traffic caused by the tri-focol nature of the Odyssey Lens. However, the Odyssey Lens will allow you to read your cell phone texts and emails. The LAL Lens requires more visits ( included in the price ) and a final adjustment to lock it. If there is need for a Lasik surgery, as a follow-up, to compensate for astigmatism or/and myopia it will be included in the price. I hope that my experience helps you with your choices.

[@loveisjoynpain]

Wish I was informed before my surgery!!!

[@sandyhill7116]

I am having cataract surgery next week. I have had mono vision contacts for 20 years which is having one eye strength weak so it can read without reading glasses, the other eye has a stronger strength which allows me to see distance. My surgeon is going to give me the same prescription that my contacts have without having to wear contacts any more🎉. This video didn’t talk about this procedure so I am educating everyone who is having cataract surgery in the future to ask your doctor. I mentioned mono vision to him and that is the only reason he offered it to me

[@patriciadodd9412]

Me too. What a mess I'm in. The eye surgeon left town. Now I have holes in macular holes and tear in r eye.

[@tiffanyb.7596]

I had my cataract surgeries. It took me a little time to get used to wearing glasses for up close activities but I’m fine with those now. I’m very happy I had my surgeries! Great video!! 🦋

[@edwarddry1099]

Cataract surgery with a history of severe glaucoma narrowed my field of vision and decreased clarity. Make sure you get a field (of vision) test for glaucoma BEFORE your surgery and a realistic appraisal of expectations. My surgeon seemed shocked when he did a field test only after surgery. A second opinion saved my other eye from unnecessary surgery at this age (83).

[@ashwayn]

Thank you xxx

[@LanierHarper]

What equipment for the field of vision is the best technology today? I am glad that you posted your experience.

[@sherylkatz8827]

It took me almost two years to adjust to my surgery. I have monofocal in both eyes, one is near and one is distance. It is both the worst and best of the options. I missed my good close vision. Now I love being able to almost never wearing glasses. I still use glasses to drive. I have very mild astigmatism but very minor. My doctor did a good job of giving me options.

[@NancySanders-om4ic]

Thank you,sir,for providing such a detailed description of cataract surgery.

[@donaldwilson5693]

I had cataract surgery at 70 on both eyes and it was the best decision I ever made. I got mono-focal distance lenses but I can read a newspaper fairly well in bright light. I do wear reading glasses for smaller print and extended reading. Had some floaters after surgery but they went away. I did get dry eye and have to use eye drop.

[@ashwayn]

Me choose the same Sir my cataracts are young at 83 still read drive fish lol we will see

[@jayholiday256]

I’m pleased with a Symphony and a Synergy multi focal lens, 100% spectacle free. Didn’t have cataracts. I was full informed of potential shortcomings. Was 61 at time of lens exchange

[@robcole332]

Thank you so much. I have a cataract growing in one eye and now I’m so much more informed about what to ask

[@momkatmax]

As someone with astigmatism and nearsightedness I'm pleased for the advancement in the lenses that are implanted. I have worn glasses since I was in 4th grade. I have wanted to be able to get up in the morning and navigate around without so highly dependent on glasses. I don't care about reading or computer glasses, I could at least find the darn things!

[@cw5451]

I got cataract surgery in September and October of last year. I see great! I’m very pleased with my results. 😁😁😁

[@JeepForFun]

I just had cataract and glaucoma surgery at same time. Both eyes. I get what you said about dry eye. I had it before but seems more noticeable now. I use dry eye drops, helps a lot. This was a super informative video. Thank you!

[@darylfortney8081]

I’m just forming cataracts, doctor gave me a few years before needing surgery. Really hoping a new generation of lenses becomes available that dynamically focus near to far.

[@lisajusti9907]

same

[@lisaWalden1972]

Im 53 been wearing glasses for about 50 years i had start of cataract surgery. My vision was 20/130 . I went for Tencis Synergy Multifocal Toric IOL now i am 20/15 vision i am so please with the out come i can read and crochet close up and dont need glasses at all now . Yes at moment i get halos but hopfully will start to fade . My only regreat is i didnt have lens replacement sooner its life changing for me being disabled and makes a diffrence for my trigeminal neuralgia no pressure point behind my ears ,

[@soraya377]

Are you planning on having surgery for your Trigeminal Neuralgia?

[@lisaWalden1972]

@@soraya377 Nothing been said to me at moment about surgery .I'm in U.K

[@oldbutstillcurious3615]

Thanks for sharing your expertise in a very understandable and pleasant way - I've often wondered if a focal length of a fixed lens could be successfully varied. Your tutorial has given me a few years to mentally consider the options and then decide the most appropriate choice for my lifestyle in really old age.

[@gwillis01]

I am glad I do not have to make the difficult choice between emphasizing near vision or distance vision.

[@helanna9843]

Thanks for this information.

[@janalderton8644]

Thank-you, Dr Chua! This presentation has been so helpful for me in case I ever need cataract surgery.

[@freddiereadie30]

My father was 76 years old when he had cataract surgery on his right eye. It was a disaster. His cornea turned opaque white 2 days after surgery. He could no longer see through that right eye now other than shadows. Now the eye doctor said the only option left is to do cornea implant, which he refuses. If only we knew this would happen on hindsight, we could have chosen to just aggressively treat the cataracts with antioxidants instead like the AREDS formula, astaxanthin, and alpha lipoic acid which worked well to many people.

[@Veronica-vt9tp]

You did a great job on this - I will be getting a consultation for cataract surgery next week. Glad you came on just at the right time. I would see you if you were in Orlando Fl. Thank you

[@ForTheFLOL]

This was very helpful and informative.

[@squarebid3]

Had both my eyes done after finding out I had type 2 diabetes 2 years ago I now can see perfectly close up & distance 100% glad I had it done

[@VivianTenuta]

I am absolutely thrilled with my cataract surgery. I did get the best lenses available and had to have follow-up YAG surgery. Since then I’m seeing 20/20!

[@ckp2ator389]

Good video (from someone who had cataract surgery 3 mos ago). You covered all the salient points. My Dr strongly pushed (-3,-2) as the monofocal target for me since I'm myopic and was OK with wearing prescription glasses. My distance is very clear with glasses which is great since my worse eye (was -17) could not be corrected with glasses anymore. I was used to taking off my glasses for my very close hobby work; I still have that ability but do now use readers if I need to see closer.

[@vjf8733]

I think the first question from the doctor S/B; which do you prefer distance or close. As you said, I have always been nearsighted w/astigmatism. Most of my life was toric contact lenses, then Lasik and monovision (R-dist, L-close), worked well. 2 yrs ago had cataract surgery on right eye (toric/dist). But most of the time I'm not driving.. I've asked that the EDOF lens (near-mid-dist?) be considered for the left eye when time. I suppose there is/was some scarring from the Lasik - should have been warning.

[@bonniemcconnell6500]

Unfortunately, I had cataract surgery at age 63. I didn't even know I had cataracts. Monofocul. Unfortunately, the lenses were put in as, Left eye for distance and Right eye for reading. My R8ght eye had had floaters which became enhanced with the new lens. So right eye now is very blurry. 4 Years after surgery I got WMD wh8ch has left me with a blind spot in my central vision of left eye. Driving at night has become fun. The approaching headlights have a wonderful glare, my distance vision has a blind spot right in the middle. Fun! 🤓😎🕶

[@kimbreeding6868]

This was very interesting. Thank you Dr for sharing it.

[@bonnieparr3502]

My dr gave me the choice to remain slightly nearsighted. I can read and do other closeup tasks without glasses, but need glasses to drive. Other than driving, I do not need glasses. I see things around the house, including things like a calender across the room. I read and sew with no glasses. Perfect choice for me.

[@carolepuleo1307]

Thank You! I have not done my 2nd eye because my vision is fantastic right now with the one done. But I am glad for the information so I will check on my second eye.

[@sport07-o2l]

Hello Dr. Chua. Thank you for such a comprehensive lesson on the ins and outs of cataract surgery. I also liked the recap at the end. I only wish that I was near enough to have you available for my eye care. At least I will now know what to ask about and what to look for. Thank you. 🙏🏽

[@dotmenziesholden1251]

I opted to have my distance vision corrected - I have been shortsighted since I was about 10 years old. I don't mind wearing glasses to read or use my computer. I hadn't realised how bad my vision was until after I had my left eye cataract done - the contrast was amazing. I am sure I will get used to having swopped my short sightedness for long sightedness.

[@wayneo6377]

Thank you for the detailed explanation of all the possible reasons why patients might be unhappy after cataract surgery. I had multi-focal lenses put in a couple of months ago and have not been completely satisfied mainly because my near vision has been a little problematic. My opthalmologist wants to discuss possible changing to monofocal lenses but after watching the video, I understand that driving would be troublesome if my distance vision is fine but I am unable to see the dashboard and instrument panels.

[@tatochip]

Best video I’ve seen on cataract surgery! Thanks.

[@sandrakramer2642]

Thank you , I had no idea I would have to consider all these options

[@federiconalos8202]

Dr. Chua, great video. Very informative and highly educational. You've covered every aspect of this very important surgery. I'm totally satisfied with my cataract procedure. Only wish Medicare would cover the lens for stigmatism and that I've done the procedure much earlier.

[@tracy_222]

This has been very helpful. My husband had both his eyes done but was never told about the Torid lense.

[@vickiz2306]

Same here…. I would have chose those

[@smileyuy5634]

I had cataract surgery 6 months ago that insurance covered..so far its ok but my floaters according to my doctor floaters Will not go away ..i can deal with it..i got a ring shadow on my right eye at the edge of my cataract surgery but then after several months its going away..wish i got no floaters it would be 💯 percent perfect..but im ok thanks Heavenly Father..all glory are yours..❤🙏

[@mizrelmizrel]

🙏🏾

[@karenkukurin5078]

This is excellent! Thank you, I had no idea. This is such valuable information. Is there anything you can do for night blindness?

[@patience4421]

I had cataract surgery in my left eye. My vision was blurry. I couldn’t even see car or traffic lights with my left eye. I had the surgery, and it changed my life. Everything is so clear and sharp. I would do it again in a heartbeat.

[@dolorescunningham4816]

Im having my right eye done soon. The doctor told me I will probably still need glasses for reading and things up close. Hopefully it will be a success. Not looking forward to it, but people tell me it doesn't hurt so thats good to know. 😊

[@AlphaGeekgirl]

I'm about take my elderly mother to Hospital tomorrow morning to fix a botched cataract operation last November when they left a small sliver in there. She's been on anti-biotic and anti-inflammatory drops for the past 10 weeks. Although after the procedure they tested her sight to be 20/20 (better than mine *with* glasses), she still complains. I hope that after tomorrow everything will settled down and it's not so annoying for her.

[@pragawa]

Best wishes

[@soraya377]

How's your mom doing?

[@simon359]

Great explanation! Thanks for letting an older man learn what’s coming. 🤙

[@hodgkinsonmary]

Thank you very much for a straightforward assessment of cataract surgery. It has put the possibility into perspective for me.

[@tjmayer9103]

Im supposed to have this surgery. Thanks for the video so I can make an informed decision.

[@KingdomSeeker2023]

This is a great video explaining the difference between the lenses as well as a clear explanation of how astigmatism can be corrected. I’ve been told different things by different eye doctors. Interesting. I’ve not had any eye surgery but there was a young woman ophthalmologist that tried to sell me cataract surgery with fancy lenses (I was in my 40s, and oh btw she said she’d fix my astigmatism for free 🤨 ). The next doctor told me I had very mild cataracts and I did not need surgery at that time! I’ve seen new doctors as I’ve moved to new towns and still not a doctor pushing cataract surgery like that young doctor….

[@prmm218]

This was very educational. Thank you.

[@donnamauriello8444]

Both eyes done at 70, no regrets, only issue I have is a sensitivity to the sun bright light, I’m happy with the results ❤

[@RavuSKila]

Thank you for your clarification

[@maryansharm5296]

I was so pleased at first after having cataract surgery on both eyes. Then my sight deteriorated greatly over just a few weeks. I woke up one day almost blind and barely able to see my hand in front of my face. Turned out my body had identified the lenses as completely foreign bodies, so had put out a protein to coat them completely. Like looking at everything through a thick fog. Now waiting for laser surgery.

[@donnawanna9833]

RK surgery around 28 years ago, one eye for near and one for far, because I had worn contacts for mono vision. Recently I had cataract surgery with the regular lens that Medicare pays for. Now I see perfect distance with one eye and I can read the smallest print on the tiny bottles with the other eye. Together I see perfect using both eyes; I'm 80.

[@purplewombat1923]

Thank you for sharing these outcomes. I am 69 and at some time in the future I will need cataract surgery. I was unaware of the the pros and cons so this is very useful information :-D

[@commonsense6967]

I chose a toric lens and was also very nearsighted, wearing glasses since age 7. I chose toric lenses, and asked for 20/20 distance vision. At age 69, I got cataract surgery, and was disappointed that the toric lenses did not even correct all of my moderate astigmatism, nor did they get rid of all nearsighted vision. However, I was improved enough to pass the driving license vision test to renew my license the next day, but I still need to wear glasses (much thinner lenses than before) to have good vision, near or far. So yes, I'm a bit disappointed. I don't have any eye diseases that would have interfered with improving my vision.

[@nancydodge9026]

I had to have cataract surgery postponed twice and was suffering very blurry vision. I’m happy to be able to see now, but very disappointed that my distance vision is still 20/30, and I have to wear glasses for both distance and reading. The choice has been to constantly be removing and replacing glasses, or just to wear them all the time. Other family members had better results.

[@dkyrtata6688]

Well done. It would be nice if you gave a brief overview of what technological enhancements have come about in recent years and what is on the horizon

[@dennyb759]

Thank you for this video. You explained so many things about cataract surgery good n bad. Was very informative.

[@lindag9975]

Great advice. I was well informed that I would require readers for close work, and I'm fine with that. I just keep readers beside all the spots where I need to see small objects close to me.

[@marialorettaescobal245]

Very informative video. Thanks.

[@michaelrutledge6439]

You are awesome. Things like this I needed to know. I want thank you😊

[@chemlabgal7564]

I wear progressive lenses and assume that I will do the same after surgery. Due to other eye issues multifocal lenses are counter indicated. I hated wearing readers and the change to progressives was life changing for me. I do not mind glasses. I do mind the on off on off. Put my glasses on in the morning and forget it. I am aware that some of my vision loss maybe due to one of these other conditions and I may need another procedure.

[@johnkeepin7527]

Same here. I’m not considering cataract surgery yet, but for quite a few years I have used progressive lenses, most of the time. There are times when it is better to use an older mono-focal type though, such as being able to focus on things at a certain angle. With my progressives, everything on the ground is slightly out of focus within about 8m, for example, so there is a tendency to lean down a bit, which can be out of balance.Then one can’t read close up at a high level, like on a shelf etc.

[@Thfeyhvfdetyhbvcd]

You’ll be still need progressives, at least to see up close AND a foot or two or three away. With only reading glasses, you’ll see very close well but be “blind” or disoriented a bit further away. Driving will be a nightmare because the instrument panel will be fuzzy and reading glasses useless. Also, your distance vision might be 20/20, but again it might be just a smidgeon off, requiring a very weak prescription to get the sharpest distance vision. Good quality progressives like Varilux are also important. Unfortunately they’ll cost just as much with a clear upper portion as for a weak distance prescription. Go figure.

[@Procedentesinvictoria]

I had an eye doctor say he wouldn’t give me a new glasses prescription until I got cataract surgery. I said no and that was over 10 years ago. I moved to southeast and have seen two doctors here and they said I don’t need surgery. I have no trouble seeing. Doctors want to meet their surgery quota. Ugh. Thanks for the video.

[@glencarey2664]

Truly a valuable site! Thank you!!!❤

[@loriheady7407]

Thank you for sharing. Very informative and in layman's terms.

[@KarenEverett-u2x]

I have never been able to see well after surgery. I wasn’t given a choice of lenses. The solution by my ophthalmologist was to permanently dilate my eyes. I think this was a terrible idea. I have never been back to him. Unfortunately he is the owner of the practice and the only group in town. I have consulted with others to see if it was possible to remove the lenses and reinsert another one.