Understanding the Signs: How to Know if You're Ready for Cataract Surgery

When your world starts to look dim, blurry, or filled with halos around lights, it might be time to explore a life-changing solution. Cataract surgery is one of the safest, most effective medical procedures available, restoring crystal-clear vision to millions of people every year.

If you're experiencing symptoms like cloudy vision or sensitivity to light, this guide will help you understand the signs to determine whether traditional cataract surgery or a laser procedure can be the right way to move forward.

At Kirk Eye Center in River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, and Chicago, IL, Dr. Scott Kirk and our dedicated team are here to walk you through each step of this process. Call now for an appointment or to get started with treatment.

What are cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the lens in your eye becomes cloudy, blocking light from passing clearly to the retina. They're a natural part of aging, often forming slowly over time.

Here are some signs you might be living with cataracts:

• Cloudy vision: Everything looks like it's covered in a foggy layer.
• Sensitivity to light: You may find bright lights uncomfortable or even painful.
• Halos around lights: Especially noticeable at night, halos can make driving and seeing clearly more difficult.
• Fading or yellowing colors: Colors may not appear as vibrant as they once did.
• Difficulty seeing at night: Driving or navigating poorly lit areas might become increasingly challenging.

Early on, you may notice small changes in your vision that don't seem disruptive, but as cataracts progress, symptoms become more noticeable. In this case, cataract surgery may be the answer.

How to decide if cataract surgery is right for you

At Kirk Eye Center in River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, and Chicago, IL, we offer both traditional cataract surgery and laser cataract surgery. But is either procedure right for you at this time? Here are some factors to consider:

• How are symptoms impacting your daily life? If cloudy vision or sensitivity to light makes reading, watching TV, or driving more difficult, surgery can restore ease and comfort to your routine.
• Have you tried glasses or contacts? Sometimes, updating your prescription readers can improve vision for mild cataracts. However, if glasses no longer help, it could be time to consider surgery.
• How advanced are your symptoms? Progressive vision loss, noticeable halos around lights, and difficulty performing everyday tasks are strong indicators that cataract surgery can greatly improve your life.

How long does cataract surgery take?

So, how long does cataract surgery take? The procedure is surprisingly quick. At Kirk Eye Center, a typical treatment takes about 10 – 20 minutes per eye. Whether you choose traditional cataract surgery or laser cataract surgery, you can expect a streamlined process with minimal discomfort.

Take a step toward clear vision

Living with cloudy vision, sensitivity to light, or halos around lights doesn't have to be your reality. Cataract surgery is a proven procedure that can bring your life back into focus.

Whether you have questions such as, "How long does cataract surgery take?" or want to discuss treatment options, Kirk Eye Center is here to help. Call our office in River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, or Chicago, IL, and meet with Dr. Scott Kirk. We look forward to guiding you through your cataract journey.