Understanding cataract surgery

Replacing the cloudy lens with a clear one.

Cataract surgery is one of the most successful operations in all of medicine — over 98% of patients see better afterward. It takes about 15 minutes, you're awake but relaxed, and recovery is fast.

What's happening

Old lens out, new lens in.

A tiny incision at the edge of your cornea opens the way in. Ultrasound (phacoemulsification) gently breaks up your cloudy lens, and we vacuum out the pieces — all through an opening smaller than 3mm.

Then a custom intraocular lens (IOL) — chosen based on your lifestyle and vision goals — is folded and inserted. It unfolds into place perfectly. No stitches. Vision starts clearing the next day.

What helps

Here's the plan —
and why it works.

Pre-op

Measurements

Detailed scans determine the exact lens power needed for your eye.

Day of

The procedure

15 minutes. Mild sedation, numbing drops. You'll feel pressure, no pain.

First 24 hrs

Take it easy

Rest, use drops as prescribed, wear the shield at night. Vision starts clearing by next morning.

Week 1–4

Activity returns

Back to most activities within days. Full clearance at your month-out visit.

Common questions

Honest answers to common questions.

Will I be awake during surgery?+

Yes, but very relaxed. We give mild sedation plus numbing drops. You'll see lights and colors, but no pain. Most describe it as surprisingly calm.

How soon can I drive?+

Usually 1–2 days after each eye, after your post-op check confirms good vision. Night driving may take a week or two to feel comfortable.

When do I get the second eye done?+

Typically 2–4 weeks after the first. Waiting confirms the first eye healed well and lets us fine-tune the second lens calculation based on the first result.

What are the restrictions?+

For about 1 week: no bending over at the waist, no heavy lifting, no swimming, no rubbing the eye. We'll give you a clear plastic shield to wear at night.

What if I pick the wrong lens?+

It's rare, and we spend time upfront matching lens to lifestyle. If an adjustment is needed, options include glasses/contacts, a lens exchange (rare), or laser enhancement. We'll discuss all options before surgery.

Replacing the cloudy lens with a clear one.

Old lens out, new lens in.

Here's the plan —
and why it works.

Measurements

The procedure

Take it easy

Activity returns

Call us immediately if

Honest answers to common questions.

We're here when you need us.

Replacing the cloudy lens with a clear one.

Old lens out, new lens in.

Here's the plan —and why it works.

Measurements

The procedure

Take it easy

Activity returns

Call us immediately if

Honest answers to common questions.

We're here when you need us.

Here's the plan —
and why it works.