If you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts and also have diabetes, you may be wondering whether surgery is still an option for you. At Brusco Vision, we work with patients who have a variety of health conditions, including diabetes, to ensure safe and successful vision correction. While diabetes can add complexity to cataract surgery, advances in technology and careful planning make excellent outcomes possible. Our team will take time to evaluate your overall eye health and tailor a treatment plan that fits your needs. Schedule a consultation with Brusco Vision to find out if cataract surgery is right for you.
Can I get cataract surgery if I have diabetes?
Yes, people with diabetes can safely undergo cataract surgery when their condition is well-managed. Diabetes does increase the risk of surgical complications, but with proper preparation and follow-up care, most patients can achieve excellent outcomes. It’s important to work closely with an experienced ophthalmologist who understands how to manage the specific needs of diabetic patients before, during, and after surgery. At Brusco Vision, we tailor each cataract procedure to the individual, taking diabetes and other health factors into account to protect your vision. With a customized plan, you can move forward with surgery confidently and safely.
What are the key considerations before cataract surgery for diabetic patients?
The most important consideration before surgery is achieving good blood sugar control. A fasting blood glucose level below 140 mg/dL and a post-meal level below 200 mg/dL are widely accepted targets for surgical safety. Poorly controlled diabetes increases the risk of delayed healing, infection, and inflammation. During the preoperative assessment, your ophthalmologist will screen for diabetic retinopathy and macular edema, which are common in people with diabetes and can impact the surgical plan. If present, these conditions may need to be treated or stabilized before proceeding. Laser cataract surgery is often preferred in diabetic patients for its precision and reduced trauma to the eye.
Are there additional risks or complications for diabetic patients?
Yes, people with diabetes are more likely to experience certain postoperative complications. These can include worsening diabetic retinopathy, swelling in the central retina (macular edema), posterior capsule opacification, and delayed healing. Infections are also a greater risk when blood sugar is poorly managed. However, most of these complications can be avoided or controlled with proper blood sugar management, early detection, and a proactive care plan. At Brusco Vision, we take every precaution to reduce risks and use the latest surgical technology to support healing and protect long-term eye health.
What should I expect after cataract surgery if I have diabetes?
Postoperative care is especially critical for patients with diabetes. You’ll need to keep your blood sugar levels as stable as possible during recovery, as fluctuations can affect how well your eye heals and increase the chance of complications. Your eye doctor will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor for changes such as worsening retinopathy or macular edema. If necessary, additional treatments like anti-VEGF injections may be used to reduce inflammation or fluid buildup in the retina. At Brusco Vision, we closely track your progress to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome for your vision.
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What blood sugar levels are safest for cataract surgery?
The safest ranges for blood sugar going into cataract surgery are a fasting level under 140 mg/dL and a postprandial (after eating) level under 200 mg/dL. These targets help minimize the risk of delayed healing, infection, and progression of diabetic eye disease. Some ophthalmologists may also look at your HbA1c, a three-month average of your blood glucose levels, and prefer it to be below 10%—though ideal levels may vary based on your overall health. If your glucose is extremely high (above 306 mg/dL) or very low (below 90 mg/dL), surgery may need to be delayed until levels stabilize. Your care team at Brusco Vision will help you make safe, evidence-based decisions about timing your procedure.
Can poor blood sugar control delay my surgery?
Yes, if your blood sugar is poorly controlled, your ophthalmologist may recommend delaying cataract surgery. Very high glucose levels increase the risk of infection, poor healing, and serious eye complications, while extremely low levels can be dangerous during surgery itself. In cases of advanced diabetic retinopathy, quickly lowering blood sugar right before surgery can also pose risks, so changes need to be made gradually. Your surgeon will work with your primary care provider or endocrinologist to ensure your levels are safe before scheduling surgery. The goal is to create the best possible environment for healing and long-term vision improvement.
Will I need different intraocular lenses (IOLs) because I have diabetes?
Possibly—your ophthalmologist may recommend specific types of intraocular lenses based on your eye health. For example, patients with diabetic macular edema or retinopathy may not be ideal candidates for premium multifocal IOLs, as these lenses can sometimes reduce contrast sensitivity. Instead, a monofocal lens may be the better choice to ensure the clearest and most reliable vision. At Brusco Vision, we carefully evaluate your retinal condition and discuss lens options with you so that your IOL supports both your lifestyle and your long-term visual needs.
How does Brusco Vision manage cataract surgery in diabetic patients?
At Brusco Vision, we provide comprehensive, personalized care for every patient, including those with diabetes. This begins with a detailed preoperative evaluation to identify any underlying diabetic eye disease and continues through surgery using advanced techniques like femtosecond laser cataract surgery. We also collaborate with your broader medical team when needed, ensuring your blood sugar is well-controlled and any coexisting conditions are accounted for. After surgery, we provide close monitoring and follow-up care to catch potential complications early and protect your long-term eye health. If you have diabetes and are considering cataract surgery, schedule a consultation with Brusco Vision to take the next step toward clearer vision.
FAQ’s About Can I Get Cataract Surgery If I Have Diabetes
Will cataract surgery improve my vision even if I have diabetic retinopathy?
Cataract surgery can improve vision in patients with diabetic retinopathy, but the final result depends on the severity of the underlying retinal condition. Dr. Brusco evaluates each patient thoroughly to determine whether cataract removal will significantly improve vision or if retinal disease may limit the benefits. Using advanced ophthalmology tools, Brusco Vision carefully assesses your retina before recommending surgery.
Is cataract surgery more complicated if I have Type 2 diabetes?
Yes, Type 2 diabetes can make cataract surgery more complex due to slower healing and a higher risk of complications. At Brusco Vision, extra precautions are taken to ensure safety before, during, and after the procedure. Dr. Brusco’s team uses detailed imaging to evaluate structural integrity and identify signs of visual impairment caused by diabetes-related damage.
Can high blood sugar affect cataract surgery outcomes?
Yes, chronic hyperglycemia can increase the risk of infection, delayed wound healing, and worsening of diabetic eye conditions. That’s why Dr. Brusco advises stabilizing blood sugar levels well before eye surgery. Brusco Vision works closely with your healthcare team to manage risk and optimize surgical outcomes through careful preoperative planning.
Will my blood vessels be more fragile during cataract surgery?
Diabetes can weaken the small blood vessels in the eye, increasing the chance of micro-bleeding during surgery. Brusco Vision uses precise techniques and advanced technology to minimize disruption and manage any bleeding that occurs. Dr. Brusco also reviews your medical history and medications to assess bleeding risk and adjust the plan accordingly.
Do I need to stop any medication before cataract surgery if I have diabetes?
Some medications, such as blood thinners or certain diabetes drugs, may need to be adjusted before surgery. Dr. Brusco provides individualized guidance, coordinating with your primary care physician to ensure your medication regimen is safe. At Brusco Vision, your treatment plan is designed to reduce risk and promote smooth healing.
Can I still have cataract surgery if I also have glaucoma?
Yes, many patients with both glaucoma and cataracts can safely undergo surgery, often improving both vision and intraocular pressure control. Brusco Vision assesses each case carefully to determine if combined procedures or adjustments to your treatment are needed. Dr. Brusco may recommend specific intraoperative strategies to protect the optic nerve and reduce pressure spikes.
Will I need corticosteroid treatment after cataract surgery?
Yes, corticosteroid eye drops are commonly prescribed after cataract surgery to reduce inflammation and support healing. At Brusco Vision, Dr. Brusco may also use additional anti-inflammatory strategies, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), if diabetic inflammation risk is high. This combination helps manage your healing process more effectively.
Are there risks of retinal detachment in diabetic patients after cataract surgery?
While rare, retinal detachment is a potential risk, especially in patients with advanced diabetic eye disease. At Brusco Vision, your retina is thoroughly evaluated before surgery to detect any warning signs. Dr. Brusco uses high-resolution imaging and anatomical terms of location to document areas of concern and reduce the chance of postoperative complications.
Will I need special eye drops before or after cataract surgery?
Yes, you’ll likely use several types of eye drops, including antibiotics, corticosteroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These are crucial for preventing infection and controlling inflammation, especially in diabetic patients. Brusco Vision provides clear instructions and guidance on proper eye drop use to support a safe and comfortable recovery.
What type of lens will I need if I wear glasses or have blurred vision?
Patients with diabetes often benefit from monofocal lenses, especially if diabetic changes in the retina are present. These lenses are designed to reduce blurred vision and work well in conjunction with corrective lens prescriptions if needed afterward. Dr. Brusco evaluates your visual acuity and overall eye health to select the most appropriate lens option for long-term stability and comfort.
Is phacoemulsification used during cataract surgery for diabetic patients?
Yes, phacoemulsification is the standard technique used to remove cataracts, even in diabetic patients. This ultrasound-based method allows for a smaller incision and quicker recovery, which is especially beneficial when healing may be slower due to diabetes. Dr. Brusco uses advanced phacoemulsification systems at Brusco Vision to enhance surgical precision and patient outcomes.
Are there specific risks during cataract surgery if I have a history of smoking and diabetes?
Yes, smoking combined with diabetes can significantly increase the risk of surgical complications like delayed healing, infection, and poor endothelium function. These issues may also elevate the risk of intraoperative bleeding or pressure instability. At Brusco Vision, Dr. Brusco considers your full health history, including smoking status, and may recommend additional precautions or therapies to reduce risk and protect your long-term vision.
source https://www.bruscovision.com/cataract/can-i-get-cataract-surgery-if-i-have-diabetes/
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