Cataract Surgery Linked to Macular Degeneration Risk

A new study found an increased risk of progression to neovascular age-related macular degeneration following cataract surgery.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Stroke

An ophthalmological slit-lamp biomicroscope on an exam table in a clean, clinical medical office. — A study of 80,000 eyes found an increased risk of progression to neovascular age-related macular degeneration in the first year following cataract surgery. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Researchers identified a higher risk of dry age-related macular degeneration progressing to the neovascular form after cataract surgery. The study, which covered data from January 2016 through December 2022, analyzed 80,000 eyes to determine long-term outcomes.

Why it matters

Understanding this association helps clinicians and patients assess the risks versus benefits of cataract surgery in those already diagnosed with dry macular degeneration. Increased surveillance after the procedure may also account for the observed link.

A propensity-matched analysis of 80,000 eyes showed a 1.22 hazard ratio for conversion to neovascular age-related macular degeneration. At six years, the cumulative incidence was 17.7% in the surgery group versus 15.2% in the non-surgery group.

The players

American Academy of Ophthalmology

This professional medical organization manages the IRIS registry, which contains extensive clinical data on eye care.

The details

The study tracked patients aged 55 or older who had early or intermediate dry age-related macular degeneration. While the risk of conversion was most pronounced during the first year post-surgery, the statistical association became nonsignificant after four years.

The IRIS registry data was collected from January 2016 through December 2022.
The strongest association between surgery and progression occurred within the first year.
The link between surgery and disease progression became nonsignificant 4 years after the procedure.
Cumulative incidence was measured at the 6-year mark following surgery.

The Big Picture

This study relies on the American Academy of Ophthalmology IRIS registry to track clinical outcomes across a massive longitudinal dataset. By utilizing this registry, researchers can better map how elective surgical interventions impact long-term ocular disease trajectories.

Patients with dry age-related macular degeneration should discuss their specific risk factors and surveillance plans with their ophthalmologist before scheduling cataract surgery. These findings suggest that postoperative monitoring may be essential for detecting potential progression early.

The takeaway

While a link exists between cataract surgery and neovascular macular degeneration, the absolute risk difference remains low at less than 3% after six years. Patients should focus on long-term clinical follow-up rather than delaying necessary vision-restoring procedures based on this data.