About Cataract Surgery

The only option for the treatment of cataracts is surgery. However, if the symptoms of cataract are not bothering you, surgery may not be needed. The success for cataract surgery is age dependent. The reason for this is that coexisting problems are more common as we get older. If you have preexisting glaucoma, retinal problems, diabetes, or other health problems, your chance of success with cataract surgery might be lower.

The first step towards cataract surgery is to set up a cataract consultation with one of our seven surgeons. On the day of your consultation, your doctor will give you a full eye examination. If you are a candidate for cataract surgery, your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery with you.

You will then meet with one of our two surgery coordinators, and be measured for your IOL (Inter Ocular Lens). This test is easy and painless. After the surgery coordinator completes this test, you and the coordinator will discuss available surgery dates, and go over all necessary paperwork. Your coordinator will explain in detail, all preoperative instructions. Please follow all instructions carefully, and be prepared to have a driver for the day of surgery, and the following day for your first postoperative appointment.

Remember that cataract surgery is an elective operation. You must choose to have the surgery. If you are happy with your vision now, you may not need cataract surgery.

Diagnosis and Early Examinations

Your ophthalmologist will perform a few simple tests to determine the type and power of implant you’ll need. You may need to stop taking certain medications at least a few days prior to your procedure to avoid complications. Your doctor may also ask you to start using eye drops that prevent infection and swelling a few days before your procedure.

Recent advancements in intraocular lenses (IOLs) make it possible to choose a standard lens that corrects distance vision – or a specialized lens that corrects up-close, intermediate and distance vision simultaneously. Lenses that block potentially harmful blue light and UV rays also are available. Your doctor will let you know which lenses are appropriate for you.

Paying for Cataract Surgery

Medicare covers surgery with a standard, or monofocal, lens implant. However, you may choose to receive a specialized lens for an added fee. Private insurance policies vary, but many also offer policy holders the choice of receiving a specialized lens as long as they pay the difference. Flexible Spending Accounts are another way you can save on your cataract surgery.

During Surgery

Your doctor will most likely perform a procedure known as phacoemulsification, the most common and least invasive technique used today. He or she will make a small incision in the eye, insert a thin probe to break up and remove the cloudy lens, and implant a replacement lens. The entire procedure will last between 15 and 30 minutes.