Cataracts can be likened to looking out a dirty window. Cataracts are a localized process - that is, the tissues behind and in front of the cataract are unharmed by it. Cataract surgery becomes necessary when cataracts adversely affect daily activities. Cataracts are very common, and affect most people over the age of 65. Cataracts are slow growing, so after someone is first diagnosed with early cataracts, they can usually expect to need cataract surgery within ten years.
Cataract surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, with topical or local anesthesia.
The procedure itself lasts from 8 to 45 minutes. It then takes about 1 to 2 weeks to recover fully. Cataracts should not be feared. They are easily cured by a relatively simple, and quite reliable, outpatient procedure. Certain systemic conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, can lead to early cataract development.