Cataract
How does diabetes affect cataract and its surgery?
Diabetes tends to cause cataract earlier and to make it progress faster. Surgery still works well, but the retina must be assessed first, because diabetic changes at the macula limit how much vision surgery can restore and can worsen afterwards. Blood sugar control, retinal treatment before surgery where needed, and closer follow up all matter.
Why the retina is assessed first
Vision after cataract surgery depends on the health of the retina behind the lens. If diabetic macular oedema or significant retinopathy is present, it is often treated before or at the time of cataract surgery, since surgery can increase macular swelling. An OCT scan of the macula is usually part of the assessment.
Before surgery
- Aim for the best blood sugar and blood pressure control you can achieve with your physician
- Tell the team about all your diabetes medications and insulin timing
- Have any needed retinal laser or injection treatment as advised
- Mention kidney disease, neuropathy or heart problems, which affect planning on the day
After surgery
Healing is usually straightforward, but people with diabetes have a higher chance of macular swelling and a slightly higher risk of infection, so follow up appointments and the full course of drops matter. Report any drop in vision rather than waiting for the next scheduled visit.
Vision may not reach the level of an eye without diabetes. The surgeon will give you a realistic expectation before surgery based on the state of your retina. Do not stop or change diabetes or eye medication without speaking to the clinician who prescribed it.
When to seek urgent assessment
- A drop in vision in the weeks after surgery, which may indicate macular swelling
- Pain, increasing redness or discharge after surgery
Frequently asked questions
- Does cataract surgery make diabetic retinopathy worse?
- Surgery can increase macular swelling in eyes already affected, which is why the retina is checked and treated first and follow up is closer.
- My sugar control is poor. Should I delay surgery?
- Sometimes improving control first is advised, but not always, particularly when the cataract prevents examination and treatment of the retina. This is decided case by case.
Concerned about these symptoms?
Arrange an eye examination with our consultant ophthalmologist in Garki, Abuja.
Care at Standard Eye
Related answers
- What happens during cataract surgery?
- When should I have cataract surgery?
- What are the symptoms of a cataract?
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