Just because you have a cataract does not mean it must be removed immediately. Cataract surgery can almost always be put off until you are unhappy with the way you see. Your eye doctor will tell you whether you are one of a small number of people who must have surgery. For example, your doctor may need to see or treat an eye problem that is behind the cataract. Or surgery may be required because a cataract is so large it could cause blindness.
Most people have plenty of time to decide about cataract surgery.
Your doctor cannot make your decision for you, but talking with your doctor can help you decide. Tell your doctor how your cataract affects your vision and your life. The UW Health eye doctors believe in helping you understand your options before choosing the best kind of cataract removal and lens replacement for you. He or she will also explain how to prepare for surgery and how to take care of yourself after it is over. Modern day cataract surgery, in most cases, does not require a stay overnight in a hospital.