Add your practice details to brand this guide and generate a shareable link for your patients. Your info is saved on this computer only.
Educational content only
This page is general patient education, not medical advice. It does not diagnose conditions, recommend specific treatments for you, or replace a conversation with your eye care provider. Always consult a qualified clinician before making decisions about your eye health.
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.
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.
Call us immediately if
You have increasing pain, sudden vision loss, flashing lights, or floaters after surgery. These are uncommon but time-sensitive if they occur.
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 1–4 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.