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January 24
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A myAMDteam Member

I procrastinated because I was concerned as well. As my cataracts started impacting my night driving, I had to do it. My only regret is not to have done it before. The surgery is quick, painless and you stay conscious through the whole operation. The only constraint is that you have to religiously put the drops three times a day for 30 days (if I recall accurately). Beyond giving me back the clarity of vision I had lost, the greater surprise was that I rediscovered vibrant colors that had faded due to the cataract. I had both eyes done. Nothing to it! Why did I wait so long? why????? Do it, you will like the result!

February 3
A myAMDteam Member

Of course it's normal, surgery is frightening, but today's doctors have superior technology and skills. I've read countless stories of clearer vision after surgery even with Macular degeration
Let us know how it goes?

Mary

January 24
myAMDteam

Is it normal to feel scared about having cataract surgery when you have macular degeneration?

It's completely understandable to feel scared about cataract surgery, especially when you're already managing AMD. Many people share this concern, but there's some reassuring news.

Recent research shows that cataract surgery can Show Full Answer

Is it normal to feel scared about having cataract surgery when you have macular degeneration?

It's completely understandable to feel scared about cataract surgery, especially when you're already managing AMD. Many people share this concern, but there's some reassuring news.

Recent research shows that cataract surgery can actually help improve vision for people with AMD, whether they have dry or wet forms of the condition. Over 70% of people with AMD who had cataract surgery experienced better vision afterward.

The good news is that cataract surgery doesn't appear to worsen AMD for most people. The study found that removing cataracts helped people see better and didn't increase the need for additional AMD treatments like anti-VEGF injections. What should you know about the risks?

While cataract surgery is generally safe, it does come with some risks like any surgery:

- Infection
- Swelling (including a condition called Irvine-Gass syndrome, which occurred in about 6% of cases but didn't cause long-term vision loss)
- Rare complications

Not everyone sees improvement after cataract surgery, and some people may experience a decline in vision, though this is less common.

The important thing is that improved vision from cataract removal can really enhance your independence and quality of life. Talk with your ophthalmologist about your specific situation - they can help you understand what to expect based on your individual eye health.

January 24
A myAMDteam Member

Sounds like you all had positive-impacts on your vision thats great but Margo has had DM for a number of years its now advanced-to GA and now im afraid its much too late.. two years ago they quit giving her a script for glasses it doesnt make a difference

February 4
A myAMDteam Member

A point of clarification: I am blessed not to have AMD but my wife has dry AMD on both eyes so, I’m the “designated driver” and assistant. Because of that, cataract surgery brought an additional layer of hesitation from my part. I finally did it. After me, my wife also had cataract surgery. As Debra indicated, it allowed her to benefit from more light. So, there is no downside and this type of surgery is totally routine nowadays.

February 3

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