Can You Have Cataract Surgery If You Have Macular Degeneration?

Baptist Eye Surgeons • August 31, 2020

The short answer is yes, you can have cataract surgery if you have age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The real question is whether cataract surgery will actually help your vision or not if you have AMD. The answer to that question is “probably, yes,” but it would be helpful to define what cataracts and AMD are to understand why that is.

To answer why you can probably have cataract surgery if you have macular degeneration, we’ll look at:

  • Establishing the reason for your vision loss
  • Can cataract surgery worsen AMD?
  • Understanding macular degeneration and cataracts

AMD and cataracts can severely affect your quality of life. By understanding these factors, you’ll be much better prepared to make an informed decision and possibly regain some of your lost vision.

Establishing the Reason for Your Vision Loss 

AMD and cataracts both negatively affect our ability to see but in different ways. AMD inhibits our ability to make out finer details while cataracts cause blurry vision. When combined, they result in severe vision loss that can greatly diminish your quality of life. 

Will cataract surgery help restore some lost vision for those with AMD? Probably, but other factors are at play that your ophthalmologist will want to take into consideration.

First and foremost , your ophthalmologist will want to establish what’s causing the majority of your vision loss—AMD or cataracts. Unfortunately, some who have experienced significant vision loss due to AMD won’t get much benefit from cataract surgery. 

To figure out which is causing the majority of your vision loss, your ophthalmologist will want to examine your retina and lens to evaluate their condition. They will take photos of your retina and examine your lens to see how clouded it is. 

Keep in mind that cataract surgery may not be your ophthalmologist’s first choice of treatment. Instead, they may want to see if a new eyeglass prescription or low vision magnifiers will do the trick.

While removing the cataract will help more light get into your eye, it may not be enough to restore your central vision, which is affected by AMD. Sharp, clear vision requires a healthy retina and an unclouded lens.

Can cataract surgery worsen AMD?

This is an important question that many AMD-sufferers ask. After all, no one wants to undergo a procedure that will make their condition worse!

To answer this question, you first need to know that there are two types of AMD:

 

  • Dry AMD
  • Wet AMD

 

So far, there hasn’t been any evidence that dry AMD will be worsened by cataract surgery. Evidence is less consistent for wet AMD . The inside of the eye becomes inflamed due to cataract surgery, which could possibly worsen wet AMD. 

On a more positive note, those with AMD who qualify for cataract surgery can experience better vision even with the combined conditions of cataracts and AMD. It’s also unlikely that you’ll develop either form of AMD after cataract surgery if you don’t already have the condition. 

Understanding Macular Degeneration and Cataracts

Now that we’ve established the facts of cataract surgery and AMD, let’s take a closer look at the two conditions to get a better understanding of how they work. By gaining a better understanding of their differences, you can also better understand why cataract surgery may help some people with AMD while not helping others with the condition.

Macular Degeneration

AMD is a retinal problem that occurs when the macula has been damaged. Located at the center of the retina, the macula allows you to make out finer details such as written words and faces. 

This is also known as central vision . When your central vision has been damaged, you’ll find it difficult to see fine details regardless of whether they’re close or far away. On the other hand, your peripheral vision (side vision) will remain intact. 

We know that AMD comes in two forms—dry and wet. Dry AMD is the more common of the two, affecting roughly 80% of people who develop AMD. Dry AMD is caused by the thinning of the macula as you age. Unfortunately, experts haven’t developed a way to treat AMD as of yet.

While less common, wet AMD is much more serious than its dry counterpart. It occurs when the body starts producing new, unhealthy blood vessels below the retina that leak fluids such as blood. This results in scarring of the macula and vision loss much sooner than you would with dry AMD. 

Regardless of the form of AMD you may develop, common factors for both are:

  • Being over 50 
  • Being caucasian
  • Having high blood pressure
  • Having high cholesterol
  • Being overweight
  • Having too much saturated fat in your diet
  • Having heart disease
  • Being a smoker

Most people don’t know they have AMD until their vision has become blurred. It’s important that you start getting comprehensive eye exams regularly to catch symptoms before they become a serious problem.

Cataracts

Cataracts cause the lens of the eye to become clouded, resulting in poor vision. Think of it like a windshield. Clean windshields are easy to see through. Dirty windshields are difficult to see through and can result in accidents. Likewise, a cloudy lens makes it much harder to see. The difference here is you can’t run your eyes through an eyewash to make them clean again.

Symptoms of cataracts include:

  • Blurred vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Double vision
  • Poor night vision
  • Colors that used to be bright now seem faded

Most people develop cataracts as they get older. Aging results in natural changes to our eyes that begin around 40 years old. This involves the natural proteins in our eyes breaking down which results in our vision becoming more “cloudy.” Cloudiness from cataracts usually becomes noticeable around 60, though it may take years for problems to manifest.

While age plays the biggest role in developing cataracts, there are other variables that can have an effect on your chances of developing the condition. These include:

  • Genetics
  • Other medical issues such as diabetes
  • Previous eye surgeries or injuries
  • Radiation exposure to your upper body
  • Use of certain medications
  • Prolonged sun exposure without eye protection from UV rays

The speed at which cataracts develop is determined by their cause and doctors are unable to predict how quickly they will develop. We do know that cataracts due to old age develop over a long period of time. On the other hand, they can develop more quickly in diabetics and younger people.

You may be able to slow down your development of cataracts. This can be done by avoiding prolonged UV exposure to your eyes and wearing sunglasses that have UV protection .

Baptist Eye Surgeons is an ophthalmological practice in Knoxville, TN, and Morristown, TN. Visit our website to meet our doctors and learn more about our specialties, or give us a call at 865-579-3920 for more information or to schedule an appointment .

What to Expect During Your First Eye Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide

September 22, 2026
A thorough eye exam is an important part of keeping your vision healthy and protecting your eyes. If you are arranging for your first eye examination as an adult, if you are taking a child in for an evaluation, or if you have noticed any changes in your vision, knowing what to expect can help make the experience more comfortable. The eye exams carried out at Baptist Eye Surgeons not only check your vision but also look at your general eye health and spot any possible problems that might call for further investigation. What is the Importance of Eye Examinations? An eye examination does not merely enable one to find out if glasses or contact lenses are required. It lets an eye care professional assess how well your eyes are working and spot the signs of common eye conditions.  Some eye conditions can progress slowly without symptoms. Regular eye checkups can help detect changes earlier and make sure you receive appropriate treatment when needed. Step by step: The Process Involved in Having an Eye Examination Even though the different appointments may vary according to your particular needs, a typical full eye examination will involve a number of significant steps. 1. An Examination of Your Medical & Eye History Your appointment may start with questions about your vision, medical history, medications, any previous eye conditions, and your family history of eye disease. Be sure to report any changes in your vision, eye discomfort, headaches, or other concerns you have noticed. Your eye care professional may also ask about the glasses or contact lenses you currently use and how well they work for you. 2. Checking Your Vision A well-known part of an eye examination is the visual acuity test. You might be asked to read some letters or symbols from a chart at a set distance. This lets doctors assess how clearly you can see and decide whether corrective lenses would help. Further testing could assess your ability to see up close and the way well your eyes work together. 3. The Measurement of Eye Health & Function Your eye care professional might carry out a number of tests in order to assess the health and functioning of your eyes. The tests involved may vary depending on your age, symptoms, and risk factors and could include measuring eye pressure, examining eye movement and coordination, and looking at the structures at the front and back of the eye. They can help spot possible signs of eye disorders. 4. Discussing Your Results Your ophthalmologist will review the results with you after the examination. If your vision has changed, they may suggest new prescription lenses. If they spot an eye condition or another issue, they could recommend further testing, further monitoring, or treatment. It is also a good chance to ask questions regarding your eye health and the recommended follow-up care. What Should You do to Get Ready for your First Eye Examination? Having an eye examination usually involves nothing complicated. It is a good idea to take with you your present glasses or contact lens details and to be ready to give a list of any medications as well as any applicable medical or family history. Additionally, it might be helpful to remember any vision changes or symptoms you have had. Dilation may occur during the examination if certain tests are performed. After dilation has been advised, your vision might be temporarily blurred or more sensitive to light. Supporting Healthy Vision The initial eye examination is a valuable chance to determine a baseline for your eye health and understand your specific vision needs. Regular eye exams help monitor changes over time and support early detection of possible eye conditions. Plan a visit with an eye care professional if you have discovered any changes in your vision or if you're due for a check-up.

Children’s Vision Milestones: What Parents Should Watch For

August 28, 2026
Healthy vision is essential for a child's development, learning, and daily activities. From recognizing faces in infancy to reading, participating in sports, and navigating school, children depend on their eyesight to interpret and relate to their environment. Knowing typical vision milestones helps parents spot possible issues and seek appropriate care when needed. How Does Vision Develop in Children? Vision develops rapidly during the first years of life. Newborns perceive light, shapes, and nearby objects, although their vision remains immature. As children mature, their capacity to focus, track moving objects, recognize details, and coordinate both eyes improves progressively. Due to the gradual nature of visual development, regular eye examinations are essential. Certain childhood vision problems may not be readily apparent, especially when one eye is stronger than the other. Although each child develops at an individual pace, several general vision milestones may guide parental observation. 1. Infants: Birth to 12 Months Within the first year, infants typically develop the ability to focus on faces and objects, visually track moving items, and reach for objects they observe. Caregivers may also observe infants responding to known faces and visually exploring their environment. If an infant does not track objects, exhibits eyes that frequently cross or wander, or fails to respond visually to people or objects, these concerns should be discussed with a pediatrician or eye care professional. 2. Toddlers: Ages 1 to 3 As children become more active, their visual skills continue to develop. Toddlers rely on vision to walk, climb, manipulate small objects, and interact with toys. Over time, they typically improve in identifying familiar people and objects and in coordinating eye and hand movements. Frequent eye rubbing, squinting, sitting close to screens, or difficulty seeing objects could indicate the need for an eye exam. 3. Preschool and School-Age Children By preschool and early elementary school, children utilize vision for detailed activities including coloring, drawing, letter recognition, reading, and participating in games. Effective eye coordination and focusing abilities support learning and classroom performance. Children may not always realize their vision differs from other children’s, so parents should watch for signs such as headaches, avoiding reading, losing their place while reading, holding books unusually close, or struggling to see the board. Signs of Possible Vision Problems Caregivers should monitor for changes in a child's vision or behavior. Potential warning signs include: Frequent squinting or eye rubbing Eyes that cross, wander, or do not move together Complaints of blurry or double vision Frequent headaches Difficulty reading or concentrating Sitting very close to a television or screen Tilting or turning the head to see Covering or closing one eye Difficulty recognizing objects or seeing at a distance Avoiding activities that require close or distance vision If you notice these signs, speak with a pediatrician or eye care professional. The Importance of Children’s Eye Exams Regular eye examinations can identify vision problems before they interfere with learning and development. Eye care professionals assess visual acuity, binocular coordination, and common childhood eye conditions. Early detection matters because some vision problems are easier to address when identified in childhood. Parents must follow their child’s healthcare provider's recommendations for vision screenings and comprehensive eye exams. Helping Protect Your Child’s Vision Caregivers can promote healthy vision by encouraging beneficial habits. These include spending time outdoors, taking regular screen breaks, using appropriate protective eyewear during activities, maintaining a balanced diet, and attending recommended pediatric and eye care appointments. Supporting Healthy Vision at Every Age Knowing children's vision milestones helps caregivers distinguish typical development and spot possible issues early. Throughout infancy and the school years, monitoring how a child sees, focuses, and interacts with their environment is vital for supporting healthy development.  If you notice concerns about a child's eyesight or alterations in vision, consult a healthcare provider or eye care professional. Early attention to vision supports learning, development, confidence, and overall quality of life.

The Connection Between Diabetes and Eye Health

July 29, 2026
Diabetes affects various parts of the body, including your eyes. Keeping your blood sugar under control is not just good for your health overall, but it also helps protect your eyesight. Over time, high blood sugar can irritate the tiny blood vessels in your eyes and increase your risk of serious eye problems. Knowing how diabetes and eye health are linked can help you identify issues and take measures to protect your sight. How Does Diabetes Affect Eye Health? When blood sugar stays high, it can damage the blood vessels in the retina, which is the part of your eye that senses light and helps you see. Damaged blood vessels might leak fluid, swell, or change how well the retina works. Diabetic eye problems usually develop slowly, so you might not pick up on any changes in your vision until significant damage has occurred. That’s why it’s important for people with diabetes to get regular eye exams, even if their eyesight seems fine. Common Eye Conditions Linked to Diabetes People with diabetes are more likely to have certain eye problems. Finding and treating these issues early can lower the chance of losing vision permanently. 1. Diabetic Retinopathy Diabetic retinopathy is a common eye issue that happens when high blood sugar damages the retinal blood vessels. These damaged vessels may leak fluid, which may cause blurry vision, dark spots, or changes in how you see. In advanced cases, abnormal blood vessel growth can lead to serious problems. If diabetic retinopathy worsens, new abnormal blood vessels can grow, causing serious problems, including vision loss. Getting regular eye exams can help catch these changes early, before they become severe. When fluid is retained in the macula (part of the retina which focuses on sharp central vision), this swelling can make it harder to read, recognize faces, or see fine details clearly. When detected early, treatments can help reduce swelling and protect your eyesight. 3. Cataracts People with diabetes have a higher chance of getting cataracts early. Cataracts occur when the lens in your eye becomes cloudy, which can cause blurry vision, increased sensitivity to glare, and difficulty seeing clearly. While cataracts come with age, having diabetes can make them appear sooner or progress quicker. 4. Glaucoma Diabetes can also raise your risk for glaucoma, which is a group of eye diseases that harm the optic nerve. Glaucoma usually starts without any clear symptoms, but if it is not treated, it can cause permanent vision loss. Routine regular eye exams are important for finding glaucoma early and keeping your eyes healthy Diabetes-related eye problems might not cause symptoms at first. Still, there are some warning signs you should look out for: • Blurry or distorted vision • Difficulty focusing • Dark spots, floaters, or shadows in your sight • Increased sensitivity to glare • Trouble seeing colors clearly • Sudden alterations in vision • Partial or complete loss of vision If you notice sudden vision changes, contact an eye doctor as soon as possible. The Value of Regular Eye Exams for People With Diabetes Getting a full eye exam is one of the best ways to protect your vision if you have diabetes. During the examination, your physician will study your retina, look for symptoms of diabetic eye disease, and track any changes over time. Many eye problems linked to diabetes can be treated more easily if they are found early. Regular checkups help your eye doctor give you advice that fits your own eye health and diabetes care. Protecting Your Eyes When You Have Diabetes Looking after your general health is important for keeping your eyes healthy. Here are some things you can do to protect your vision: • Keeping blood sugar levels under control • Managing blood pressure and cholesterol • Scheduling regular diabetic eye exams • Following your diabetes treatment plan • Eating a balanced diet that promotes eye health • Avoiding smoking, which increases the risk of eye complications Prioritizing Your Vision and Eye Health Diabetes and eye health are closely linked, but you can lower your risk of serious vision problems by taking action early. Getting regular eye exams, making healthy choices, and managing your diabetes all help protect your eyesight. If you have diabetes, seeing your eye doctor regularly can help catch changes early and keep your vision clear for the future. Your eyes are a key part of your health, so make caring for them a priority at every age.