Will they operate on both eyes at the same time?

 We prefer to perform surgery on the second eye two or three weeks after the first eye allowing adequate time for the first eye to fully heal.

Is cataract surgery dangerous?

All surgery involves some risk, so yes, it is serious. Our surgeons use the latest techniques available to create the smallest of incisions allowing more rapid recovery. Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed type of eye surgery in the United States. Our surgeons perform cataract surgery roughly 80 times per week, which means tens of thousands of successful procedures over the years. This has allowed them to gain the up-most confidence that we can provide quality care for your eyes.

Will it hurt?

A mild sedative is used to give a local anesthetic, along with anesthetic eye drops; thus no general anesthesia is required. There is usually no discomfort felt during the surgery.

How long will the surgery take?

Cataract surgery is done on an outpatient basis right here at our own facility. The actual surgery takes approximately 20 minutes, but like any surgery, there is some preparation beforehand. After a short stay in the post-operative recovery area, the patient may return home within a half-hour following the surgery wearing a bandage over that eye for one night only. The patient will be sent home to relax and refrain from strenuous activity. The patient will return the following morning to have the bandage removed and will be given prescription eye drops to guard against infection, along with complete instructions on how to care for your eye.

When will my vision return?

While most patients may have “functional” vision the very next morning, it takes about 4 weeks for the vision to stabilize. Visual outcomes depend on what type of implant is inserted. Discuss implant options with your surgeon to determine which is right for you or read more here.

Can I go to any eye doctor for check-ups after the surgery?

Generally, patients return to their surgeon the day after surgery. However, some patients may have been referred to their surgeon by their local optometrist and can choose to continue their post-operative follow-ups with their doctor. If the patient is having any difficulties or doubts, they may contact the surgeon at any time.

What about problems driving at night and sensitivity to light?

Yes, but this symptom is often temporary and is rarely debilitating. After the surgery, some patients complain of glare or halo around their peripheral vision mostly at night, but there are a number of things that the doctor can do to improve the patient’s vision at night including eye drops or night driving glasses.

Will I have to have cataract surgery again?

No, once the lens has been replaced, you will never need to have cataract surgery again. Occasionally after the surgery, scar tissue may develop over the lens and the doctor may do a simple, painless, laser to remove the scar tissue. Once this is done, no further surgery related to your cataracts may be needed.

What is the cost of cataract surgery? Will my insurance cover it?

The price of the cataract procedure depends on medical necessity and the type of implant used. If it is deemed that your vision is affected by cataracts, generally, insurances will cover a large portion of the fees. Most secondary insurances will cover the remaining surgery charges. Deluxe lens implants will have an upgrade fee that insurances do not cover. Insurance coverage varies per patient and policy, which our trained staff would be happy to assist you with.