Depression over cataract surgery

[crosinski]

I just found out I’ve got to have cataract surgery on both eyes. I’m depressed about it because I draw. I draw with my glasses off and my nose nearly touching the paper because I have super close-up vision. The absence of hatch marks and a gentleness of tonal transitions are my trademarks. From what I’m reading, when they do the surgery I can choose ‘close up’ vision, but it won’t be nearly as close as I’m accustomed to.

I’ll be seventy one in August, I thought I’d have more time. But, to keep my driving license, I must have the surgery. So, I’m depressed, and a little fearful.

[Bmoboy]

1. I feel for you

I have no vision in one eye due to a detached retina and the other eye is getting older and weaker. I worry about losing even more vision. At age 75, i don't expect improvement any time soon.

[crosinski]

10. Our vision is so precious!

I’m sorry to hear you’ve lost the vision in one eye and fear for it in the other. Our vision is tied to our independence, of course, and that’s a huge part of the problem. Please take care.

[cilla4progress]

2. My 70 year old husband is about to have his 2nd eye done

He has no complaints! They did something fancy with his lens. Not sure exactly what, but I think he has closeup vision in one eye and long distance in other?

He's not an artist but he's really good at fixing things, using close vision.

Be sure to do your research and ask a lot of questions!

[greatauntoftriplets]

8. I had those implants, too.

They're great.

[crosinski]

12. Yes, I've read about two different lenses ...

… one for distance and one for close up work. Very smart solution for some people! I’m not sure what’s available, to tell you the truth. I need to do a lot more reading. Thanks for mentioning the two lens solution.

[Jirel]

3. Your fear may be exaggerated.

I have had cataract surgery. Honestly, the fear leading up to it is the worst part, assuming you have a good surgeon. You will be amazed by your vision from the moment you’re hanging out in the recovery room, waiting to be discharged. My vision was dead on, when I walked out. I did eventually need reading glasses, but it was fine.

[crosinski]

13. Thank you!

I know I’m stressed out way more than I need to be. I need to calm down and trust that cataract surgery is not such a big deal!

[Siwsan]

4. I had my surgery back in 2012 (I think)

I have zero regrets. I had lenses implanted that basically gave me 20/20 vision for the first time in my life. As years have passed, I do resort to 'cheaters' on occasion.

Anyway, the surgery was painless and after just one day's rest, I was back to active until they did the other eye. One more day of rest and WOW.

[crosinski]

14. Thank you for that.

I was wondering how long they lasted … I know absolutely nothing about them! Everyone seems to be happy with the result.

[Maninacan]

5. Cataract

I had implants done. I always did close work but am nearsighted. I am happy as i had trouble using tools at a proper distance. My Beige fridge turned white one eye at a time. DR. recommended standard vision and using 2.5 readers. Girlfriend has one long distance vision implant and it is too different from the other eye . She is a painter but does not work real close up. Good Luck ! I was also fearful but am happy with the results.

[crosinski]

15. It's so good to hear another success story ...

I’m actually starting to feel better now … thank you for adding you and your girlfriend’s story.

[Diamond_Dog]

6. I had cataract surgery 2 years ago, and I draw,too.

My results were astounding. I am so happy I had it done.

For extremely close up or detailed drawing, I bought one of those magnifying glass things that attach to my drawing board on a long arm that I can move to any position or angle and it works very well.

[crosinski]

16. It's so good to hear from someone who draws!

I’m so relieved to know that you’re happy with how your cataract surgery turned out. I was thinking that a magnifying glass could be a possible solution, so it’s good to know that does work. Thanks again.

[Diamond_Dog]

20. Good luck! You won't regret it.

[usonian]

7. Same here. Can't decide, though I have a little time.

Last edited Thu Jun 26, 2025, 05:27 PM - Edit history (1)

Typing this on my phone without glasses.

You might get a second opinion on the lenses. I don't know if they come in -6 or more, which would mimic strong myopia.

I'll ask. "middle" close would require glasses for both distant and very close vision.

Could I live with distant vision, and glasses for anything close? I have been the opposite for almost all my life. Reading glasses are cheaper, that's all.

I wear glasses for photography. Flat panels just have too much glare for me. The viewfinder works better, and requires distant vision, or near to it. The flat panel display uses my "normal" close vision less the glasses. But I rarely use it.

At least, you are not alone in this matter. Best of luck.

On edit. I once was given "far and close" eyeglass lenses. My mind felt twisted and I asked for equal strength in both eyes. If this is a consideration, do ask for a test pair of glasses with unequal strength before making a committment.

[crosinski]

17. Sounds like you've given this more investigation than me.

I’ve got to do more reading on the types of lenses that are available. Good luck to you too!

[greatauntoftriplets]

9. I had cataract surgery in both eyes done 13 years ago.

Haven't needed glasses since then. Best of luck with your surgery.

[crosinski]

18. Thank you!

[OC375]

11. Hang in There!

I empathise with you. I had a detached retina repaired in April and lost 25% vision in my left eye. I need cataract surgery becuase the lasrer used to fix this causes damage. I'm apprehensive as well becuase (while I'm no artist) I do alot of visual things and have been impacted, and will be impacted further. Eyesight is something where changes caused by problems tends to lean towards "permenant", and adapting is tough. I wish you the best.

Of note: a friend's wife had cataract surgery and the lenses they impanted were "adjustable" using UV light. The lens prescription can be tuned after they are installed, rather than going with the best guess before surgery. Apparently makes for better results. Perhaps it's something to look into?

[crosinski]

19. Thank you, and I wish you the best also!

I haven’t heard of the adjustable lenses, so that will be something for me to explore. Thanks!

[Easterncedar]

21. I can't wait for surgery

Almost everyone I know was thrilled by the improvement in their vision after cataract removal. Colors were brighter, they didn’t need glasses anymore, and floaters were reduced. I hope you have the same success.

[crosinski]

22. Oh floaters!

I hate em! I hadn’t even thought about them. Seeing without them would definitely be a plus!