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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
September 12
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Answer Summary

Members responded warmly to a question about cataract surgery while on CellCept and Benlysta, with most sharing that their own experiences... Read more

Members responded warmly to a question about cataract surgery while on CellCept and Benlysta, with most sharing that their own experiences went smoothly and without complications. Several members noted they did not need to stop their medications, though a recurring theme was the importance of checking with your rheumatologist and eye doctor, as advice varied across medical teams. Overall, the community reassured the member that cataract surgery is a common, low-risk procedure with a quick recovery and meaningful vision improvement.

MyLupusTeam

Cataract surgery is a common concern for people with lupus, and it's great that you're thinking ahead about your medications. Many MyLupusTeam members have navigated surgery while managing their lupus treatments.

Regarding CellCept (mycophenolate mofetil) and Benlysta (belimumab), it's really important to speak with both Show Full Answer

Cataract surgery is a common concern for people with lupus, and it's great that you're thinking ahead about your medications. Many MyLupusTeam members have navigated surgery while managing their lupus treatments.

Regarding CellCept (mycophenolate mofetil) and Benlysta (belimumab), it's really important to speak with both your rheumatologist and your eye surgeon before making any changes. Here's what's generally known:

- Benlysta may need to be temporarily paused around the time of surgery, as biologic medications can affect healing and infection risk
- CellCept is an immunosuppressant, which may also require timing adjustments before and after surgery
- Stopping either medication without guidance could trigger a lupus flare

Never stop or adjust either medication on your own โ€” your doctors need to create a coordinated plan together. The good news is that tapering or temporarily pausing Benlysta can be done safely when managed carefully by your care team. They may also have alternative medications ready to help keep your lupus under control during that period.

Bring a full medication list to your pre-surgery consultation so everyone is on the same page. ๐Ÿ˜Š

September 12
A MyLupusTeam Member

I had my first eye done a week and a half ago. Other eye will be done this Thursday. No pain during revovery. I didn't have to stopany of my meds. I also didn't have the fancy lenses installed, just plain ones
I don't mind wearing glasses. As a matter of fact?, my glasses have protected me from eye injuries. Right now I can say that my distance vision is less fuzxy.
Easiest surgery I have ever had done

September 13
A MyLupusTeam Member

Thank you all for your responses- you're the family that always makes me feel better. Love to you all๐Ÿ’œ๐Ÿ˜˜

September 15
A MyLupusTeam Member

I had both eyes done at 51 and try not to stress. Itโ€™s very common surgery and it does improve your vision especially the brightness log colors. As to the meds your taking talk with your eye doctor cause some meds need to be paused before and after surgery or a different med taken. The surgeon will guide you through the whole process and even give you written instructions. Itโ€™s okay to be nervous and you got this.

September 13
A MyLupusTeam Member

I had it done on both eyes at age. 51, while on heavy-duty immunosuppressants, and it was no problem. It's a minor, low-risk procedure, Kat. Please try not to stress about it.๐Ÿ’•

September 13

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