How Do I Choose the Best Cataract Specialist?

An optometrist makes the initial diagnoses on most cataracts, but an ophthalmologist typically performs the treatment. These doctors have earned a specialized degree in eye diseases and frequently possess a sub-specialty in performing ophthalmic surgery. Choosing a cataract specialist involves researching the background and qualifications of the surgeon and having a willingness to ask questions about his or her knowledge of procedures and technology.

Different countries require a cataract specialist to undergo a variety of licensing standards. Ophthalmic surgeons typically are required to have four years of medical school and several years of residency training, with an emphasis on ophthalmology. Upon successful completion of an internship, a cataract specialist can become certified.

One of the first steps in choosing a cataract specialist involves questioning those who have undergone eye surgery. Friends and family members are an invaluable resource, as is your primary care physician. Certain websites and organizations provide searchable databases of qualified ophthalmologists and ophthalmic surgeons. These lists often identify qualified doctors by region, and provide additional information detailing educational background, work history and surgical specialties.

You should not be hesitant to ask your ophthalmologist whether he or she is experienced in performing phacoemulsification and extracapsular surgery. These are the two most common forms of cataract surgery. In the former, the surgeon makes a small incision in the side of the cornea, inserts an ultrasonic probe, breaks up the corneal lens and removes the pieces by suction. The latter procedure requires a larger corneal incision that permits removal of the diseased lens in one piece. In both cases, an artificial or intraocular lens replaces the original lens.

Your cataract specialist should be up to date on innovations in lens technology. Ask him or her about the differences between monofocal, toric and multifocal intraocular lenses. Monofocal lenses are the most common and generally provide good distance vision but often require that you wear glasses for reading or close-up tasks. Toric lenses usually result in improved distance vision and can help correct astigmatism.

A surgeon should be especially knowledgeable about multifocal lenses. This type of lens, which came into use in the mid-2000s, provides vision enhancements to different parts of the eye. Your goal is to locate a cataract specialist who will explain the potential benefits and drawbacks of multifocal lenses and other emerging cataract technologies.