Unfortunately,
cataract surgery results do not live up to the expectations of the patient. Sometimes this is due to the physician "overselling" the lens, but oftentimes the patient will have unrealistic expectations despite what their physician tells them. Recently I had a long discussion with a patient trying to explain why a multifocal intraocular lens would be a poor choice for him. Despite pictures, videos, and even written diagrams explaining his wet macular degeneration, he still desired the "best lens, no matter what the cost". I referred him to a colleague who had a similar discussion with the patient. In spite of our agreement, the patient was upset and suspicious, and ultimately left to seek the opinion of another ophthalmologist.
Of course there are the other patients who have a "friend". This "friend" apparently underwent cataract surgery with a laser, did not have to pay anything for the lens or post-op drops, and never uses glasses for anything. If only this friend could be brought to the office for an evaluation it would greatly help all of us.
More stressful can be the patient who has already undergone cataract surgery and seeks a second opinion because of their unrealistic expectations. These patients may have undergone perfect surgery but hold a large grudge against their surgeon and, if the new doctor cannot "fix" the problem, against the new physician as well. What is most important in these situations is to listen to the patient's complaints and address them individually. Oftentimes this can involve significant chair time, primarily focused on the lens technologies and their limitations.
It can be tiresome, and it can be stressful. The following video is loosely based on several patient interactions I have had over the years and is meant to entertain. Feel free to provide your own personal anecdotes below.