This 64YO female has a lifetime history of anisometropic amblyopia with a myopic posterior staphyloma OD and presented with a mature cataract in this eye. Vision was light perception. She was clearly informed that surgery would likely not restore much vision. The goal was to remove the dense opacity and maximize any remaining visual potential.
Postoperative color imaging of the posterior pole shows severe peripapillary and myopic atrophy. Vision was 20/250.
Our patient reminds us that amblyopia is not an absolute contraindication for cataract surgery. Preoperative counseling is critical so that the patient understands the surgical goals. In general, the adage “under promise and over deliver” is a good rule for any healthcare provider to live by.
