Cataract FAQs

Cataracts can only be treated with surgery, which removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with a clear artificial lens. We offer advanced cataract surgery options, including a range of intraocular lenses (IOLs) designed to improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses. Your doctor will help you choose the best option based on your lifestyle and vision goals.

Cataract surgery is recommended when your vision begins to interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, or working. There is no need to wait until cataracts are “severe.” Our doctors will evaluate your vision and help determine the right timing.

You’ll meet with your Cataract Consultant and eye surgeon for a thorough exam. They will measure your eyes for the perfect lens and give you one-on-one attention so all your questions are answered. Afterward, you can consider your options at home, and our specialists are always available to help.

The two main types are traditional and femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS). Traditional surgery is more manual and uses ultrasound to break up the cataract; FLACS relies more on laser technology and precise imaging, and can correct astigmatism and reduce dependence on glasses. Both are highly effective with a quick recovery.

The cost depends on the type of lens used and your individual treatment plan. Medicare and most insurance plans typically cover standard cataract surgery; advanced lens options may involve additional costs. Your cataract consultant will review this with you before your procedure.

Standard surgery and basic monofocal lenses are typically covered by Medicare and most insurance. Premium lenses (multifocal, toric, or Light Adjustable) involve additional out-of-pocket costs because they offer advanced technology to reduce dependence on glasses or correct astigmatism, and are considered elective enhancements.

Cataract surgery is one of the safest procedures in medicine and takes only 30–45 minutes or less. Patients go home the same day. If both eyes need surgery, they are done as two separate procedures, allowing the first eye to recover first.

Although extremely safe, as with any surgery complications are possible. Symptoms like dry eye, blurred vision, and eye pain are common in the days after and usually resolve on their own. Generally, the earlier surgery is done, the better the outcome, which is why choosing an experienced specialist matters.

Most patients notice clearer vision within a few days. Mild symptoms like irritation, light sensitivity, or redness are common but usually resolve quickly. You’ll use prescribed eye drops and attend follow-up visits, and most people return to normal activities within a few days.

Cataracts cannot return once the cloudy lens is removed. However, some patients develop posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which can make vision appear cloudy again. This is easily treated with a quick, painless laser procedure.

Yes, often. Depending on your measurements and goals, your surgeon may recommend a toric lens implant or laser-assisted surgery to reduce or correct astigmatism during the procedure, improving clarity and reducing dependence on glasses.

If both eyes require surgery, the second procedure is typically scheduled one to two weeks after the first, allowing time for healing and the best possible outcome.

It depends on the intraocular lens (IOL) selected. Some lenses reduce or eliminate the need for glasses, while others provide clear vision at a single distance. Your doctor will help you choose based on your vision preferences.

LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct vision, while cataract surgery removes and replaces the eye’s natural lens. Cataract surgery treats a medical condition; LASIK is an elective vision-correction procedure.

No. Numbing eye drops are used during the procedure, and most patients feel little to no discomfort. Mild post-surgical irritation is normal and typically resolves quickly.

Most patients experience minimal pain or discomfort. Some may be prescribed eye drops to manage discomfort and prevent infection. You may notice blurry vision, itching, or minor discomfort as your eye heals, but vision typically improves within a few days.

You’ll need someone to drive you home, and should avoid driving for one to two days while your eye heals. Avoid strenuous exercise or lifting more than five pounds for the first week, and sleep on the opposite side of the healing eye to avoid pressure.