Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed operations in the United States, as studies show that half of all Americans over 80 either have cataracts or had surgery on them. In all, around 2 million surgeries are performed each year in the U.S.

But while its success rate is around 99%, many people are worried when they are slated for the surgery because it involves a sensitive—and vital—part of the body.

As always, facts and answers to questions typically help alleviate concerns. Kingston Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a FAQ guide to cataracts and cataract surgery.

What Is a Cataract?

It’s a cloudy part of the eye’s lens that blurs vision and can also prevent doctors from seeing the back of the eye to check for other potential issues.

When is Surgery Needed?

Cataracts tend to develop slowly. If your vision is good, you may never need surgery. But if your vision is seriously affected or doctors can’t see the back of the eye, surgery will be recommended.

Is the Surgery Safe?

All surgeries contain an inherent risk, but as one of the most common surgeries in the country with an extremely high success rate, the chances of complications are rare. Choosing an experienced surgeon makes the chances of a successful operation even greater.

Will Thick Glasses Be Necessary After the Procedure?

This tends to be a result from the past. Now, surgeons can implant an intraocular lens (IOL) that can permanently correct vision so you could no longer need glasses or contact lenses for distance.

Does Insurance Cover It?

Most insurance plans will cover the surgery and even the placement of a standard IOL. There are also IOLs that will correct nearsightedness as well (to remove the need for reading glasses), but insurance companies tend to not cover that option.

What Are the Side Effects?

Patients can expect pain, sensitivity, and swelling after surgery. A mild infection is possible, but serious complications are very rare.

To learn more about Kingston Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://kingston-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.