Surgical Procedure

Cataract Surgery

A common procedure to remove a cloudy lens and restore clear vision

When to seek immediate care

  • •Severe or worsening eye pain
  • •Sudden decrease in vision
  • •Increasing redness that doesn't improve
  • •Seeing new flashes of light or many new floaters
  • •Discharge or crusting that gets worse

Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience any of these symptoms after surgery — early treatment of complications leads to better outcomes.

Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful surgeries performed worldwide. During the procedure, your eye's natural lens — which has become cloudy (a cataract) — is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). Most patients experience significantly improved vision, and the surgery typically takes less than 30 minutes with a quick recovery.

How it works

A cataract is a clouding of your eye's natural lens, which sits behind the pupil. As the cataract develops, it's like looking through a foggy or dirty window — colors seem faded, glare increases, and vision becomes blurry. No drops or glasses can clear a cataract; the only treatment is surgical removal.

Modern cataract surgery (called phacoemulsification) uses a tiny incision and ultrasound energy to break up and remove the cloudy lens. A folded artificial lens (IOL) is then inserted through the same small opening, where it unfolds and stays permanently in place. The incision is so small it typically seals without stitches.

Animation showing the cataract being removed and artificial lens being implanted

Is this right for me?

This may be considered if you have:

  • Cataracts affecting your daily activities like reading, driving, or watching TV
  • Glare or halos from lights making night driving difficult
  • Colors appearing faded or yellowed
  • Frequent changes in your glasses prescription that don't help
  • Cataract interfering with treatment of another eye condition

It may not be a good fit if you have:

  • Mild cataracts that aren't significantly affecting your vision or life
  • Uncontrolled eye conditions that need treatment first (infection, severe glaucoma)
  • Medical conditions that make surgery unsafe (your surgeon will evaluate this)

Cataract surgery is elective for most people — you choose when the visual impact on your life makes it worthwhile. Your ophthalmologist can help you weigh the benefits and timing.

What to expect

1

Before

  • •A comprehensive eye exam with measurements to select your IOL
  • •Discussion of lens options — basic vs. premium IOLs for different vision goals
  • •Instructions about medications and eating before surgery
  • •Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure
2

During

Surgery typically takes 15-30 minutes and is done under local anesthesia with sedation — you're awake but relaxed and comfortable. You may see light and movement but won't see the surgery happening. There's no pain, though you might feel slight pressure. Most procedures are outpatient; you go home the same day.

3

After

  • •Your eye may be covered with a shield initially for protection
  • •Vision often improves within days, though full healing takes weeks
  • •Eye drops are prescribed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation
  • •Avoid rubbing your eye, heavy lifting, and swimming for a few weeks
  • •Most people can return to normal activities within a day or two
Cataract surgery is very safe, but like all surgeries carries some risk. Potential complications include infection, bleeding, swelling, retinal detachment, and IOL problems. Most complications are treatable. Discuss your specific risks with your surgeon.

Frequently asked questions

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Sources

Information on this page is based on the following authoritative sources:

Last updated: April 2026