Question:
Is there an anti-oxidant that is helpful for people with cataract?
Answer:
Ask your doctor when the next time you see him. I have worked with eye
surgeons on thousands of cataract surgeries in the past 8 years, and
while we do use a special computer-controlled phacoemusifier, a laser is
not used. You're right in that in most cases only topical anesthetic is
used, and the incision is 3.0mm or less and requires no suture.
Cataract is not treated with laser (secondary cataract, as well as "vitreous
to the wound", is).
Cataract is an oxidative process (faster in peoples with diabetes) therefore
it makes sense that antioxidant should help. No proof yet.
While there is no need to be afraid of cataract surgery, serious
complications, though rare, are possible. Minor complications (such as
vireous loss) are common.
Besides, the techinque becomes safer and the lenses become better by the
year.
Most ophthalmologists, including myself, recommend to operate when the
cataract begins to affect activity of daily living (driving, reading,
computer work, etc.)
Some, mostly in Florida and in California, subscribe to the "I'd better
operate this patient before somebody else does" theory.
