Cataract surgery concerns

I am 53 years old. Within 2 months I'm scheduled for cataract removal on both eyes.  With my situation as described below, do you think the risks associated with removing my cataracts are significant or above-normal?  Am I being overly concerned?  12 years ago - diagnosed with hyperthyroidism;  4 years ago received radiation treatment - now have hypothyroidism.  Left eye - 8 years ago - vitreous detachment; there were no retinal detachment issues.  At present I have double and blurred vision; difficulty with glare; increased nearsightedness; no longer need reading glasses.  My prescription is currently -5.50.  Right eye - 11 months ago - retinal detachment; successful reattachment; vitrectomy and scleral buckle, but have lost some peripheral vision and central vision acuity.  There was optic nerve damage during surgery; swinging-light-test indicates a RAPD.  I have moderate low vision at about 20/70.  Both eyes - experiencing up and down IOP - Right eye is presently 28; now taking Xalatan drops in right eye only.  All of this makes me quite nervous about the cataract surgery, but I do need to see better!  My work involves using the computer all day.  Any comments would be greatly appreciated!  Thanks so much.

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

There is some increase in complications in your situation.  Find an experienced ophthalmologist.  The eye that had a vitrectomy has a much higher chance of capsular rupture and possible recurrent detachment.  Please have the retina checked by a retinal specialist before cataract surgery.

Dr. O.