Surgery risks on early vs. more advanced cataracts

Both my eyes had retinal detachments; I had buckles on both, but later one was removed. My contact perscription in the unbuckled eye is -7.50 and -9.50 in the buckled eye. I just found out I am developing cataracts in both eyes....but they are still very early in the developing stages.....my retina specialist told me that the unbuckled eye is at greater risk for another detachment, which makes sense, but if I wait until the cataracts get worse, won't the risk be even greater?

[Houman Vosoghi, MD]

Only if the cataract becomes very dense.  A mid level cataract would be ideal where it is definitely affecting your vision and not yet too hard.  Your surgeon should be able to let you know when.  You are at risk no matter when the cataract is done but more risk if it really gets too dense.

HV