– The Risks of Vision Loss and Complications When Surgery Is Postponed –

Cataracts are one of the most common age-related eye conditions, in which the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy.

This leads to blurred vision, glare, faded color perception, and gradual loss of sight.

In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) has identified cataracts as the most common cause of reversible blindness worldwide,

and millions of people suffer daily from the visual disturbances caused by this condition.

Despite this, many people mistakenly consider cataracts to be a natural part of aging rather than a treatable condition.

As a result, they often neglect the symptoms or postpone surgery unnecessarily.

However, cataracts are not a condition to take lightly.

If left untreated for too long, the chance of fully restoring vision after surgery may be limited.

In more severe cases, complications such as increased intraocular pressure, rupture of the lens capsule, or even acute glaucoma may occur.

In this article, we’ll explore the potential medical risks of delaying cataract surgery

and explain why timely surgical treatment is so important.

1. Vision Loss Can Worsen When Cataracts Are Left Untreated

Because cataracts progress gradually, symptoms in the early stages may be subtle.

However, when vision becomes cloudy, lights become blinding, or night driving becomes difficult,

the cataract has often already advanced significantly.

As the lens opacity worsens, surgery becomes more difficult and the likelihood of full visual recovery decreases.

Prolonged exposure to a cloudy lens may even impair retinal function, making it difficult to achieve clear vision even after surgery.

2. Risk of Complications Increases

As cataracts become more advanced, they may cause more than just vision loss.

Some of the most common complications include:

Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma

When the lens thickens and shifts forward, it can narrow the anterior chamber angle, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure.

This results in acute angle-closure glaucoma, which may cause severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and vomiting.

Posterior Capsule Rupture and IOL Insertion Failure

If the lens becomes too hardened, the posterior capsule may rupture during surgery.

In such cases, placing an intraocular lens (IOL) becomes difficult or may require additional procedures.

For elderly patients, the recovery tends to be slower, and the risk of postoperative inflammation is higher, which requires extra caution.

Uveitis and Endophthalmitis

If cataracts are left untreated too long, the lens may begin to degenerate, triggering inflammatory responses.

This can lead to uveitis or endophthalmitis, both serious inflammatory eye conditions caused by infiltration of inflammatory cells.

When vision loss is prolonged, it significantly affects daily life, from outdoor activities to using stairs and driving.

In older adults, visual imbalance increases the risk of falls, which can lead to fractures or trauma—severely lowering their quality of life.

Additionally, vision decline due to cataracts can interfere with reading, watching TV,

or using smartphones, potentially leading to social isolation and emotional distress.

Vision is not just a physical function; it directly affects quality of life.

Cataract surgery today is not only about restoring vision

but also about improving both near and distance vision through advanced multifocal IOLs.

However, if the cataract becomes too dense or if retinal function is compromised,

these premium lens options may no longer be suitable.

Performing surgery when the eyes are still in a stable condition ensures more predictable outcomes

and allows for customized treatment that matches the patient's lifestyle.

Cataracts Become More Dangerous the Longer You Wait

Delaying surgery reduces the likelihood of vision recovery

and increases the risk of other eye and systemic conditions.

In elderly patients, untreated vision loss often leads to falls, depression,

and social isolation, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.

When surgery is performed early, visual recovery tends to be faster and more stable,

and patients can benefit from a wider range of lens options—ultimately improving their overall quality of life.

Therefore, if you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts, consult with an ophthalmologist

to determine the best time for surgery and avoid missing the optimal treatment window.