When cataracts are in their early stages, you may be able to manage the problem with an updated prescription to your glasses or contact lenses. But as they further develop, your loss of vision may start to interfere with how you enjoy and engage in everyday activities like reading or driving. Your doctor will assess your current eye health and review your medical history to make sure you don’t have pre-existing conditions that would rule out the procedure. You don’t necessarily need surgery as soon as you discover that you have cataracts, as they can often be managed for years with glasses or contact lenses before they start to inhibit your lifestyle.