Cataracts are something that many deal with, often worsening with age. Cataracts are cloudy areas found in the lens of the eye. Over time, cataracts can cause a host of vision issues, including blurry or dim vision, double vision, and light sensitivity. While not all cataracts will cause vision changes, those that do may require surgery. Eye cataract surgery is an effective procedure that can restore your vision and remove the cataract. Here are three things that you should know about cataract surgery.

When To Get Surgery

The first thing that you should know about cataracts is that just because you have them doesn't mean you need surgery right away or even at all. However, there are a few signs that do indicate that cataract surgery is necessary. If changes in your vision are causing difficulty in your daily life, then cataract surgery is likely going to be your best bet. If you have other eye conditions, your eye doctor may recommend removing cataracts, even if they aren't impacting your vision. If your doctor recommends surgery or you have vision issues that affect your day-to-day life, it's time to consider cataract removal.

How Surgery Works

If you are hesitant to get eye cataract surgery, knowing how the procedure works may help ease your fears. Cataract surgery is a safe procedure that has a low rate of complications. Different techniques are used for cataract surgery, but most work by replacing your eye's lens with an intraocular lens, an implant made out of clear plastic. The procedure itself is quick, usually taking less than half an hour. It will take around one month for your eye to fully heal.

How Much Surgery Costs

If you have health insurance or Medicare, cataract surgery is usually covered. However, you will have to pay the coinsurance for the procedure, which will vary depending on your policy. Without insurance, cataract surgery will set you back between $5,000 and $10,000 per eye. There are a few factors that can impact your bottom line. Premium intraocular lenses will increase your costs even if you have insurance that covers this procedure. Prescription eye drops are required after this procedure and can add to your aftercare costs. 

Cataract surgery is a safe procedure that removes troublesome cataracts. However, there are a few things to know about this procedure. First, not everyone with cataracts will need surgery to remove them. If you are nervous about cataract surgery, knowing how the procedure works can reduce your hesitation. While this surgery is often covered by insurance, your costs may vary. 

To learn more about eye cataract surgery, visit a local optometrist near you.

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