Cataract Surgery and Lens Implantation

Using the most up to date methods and instrumentation, cataract surgery is typically performed using a small incision phacoemulsification technique. This means that the cataract surgery is accomplished using the smallest possible incision, and removal of the lens material is accomplished using an ultrasonic needle.

What is a cataract?

Light is focused within the eye by the crystalline lens. When this lens becomes cloudy, it is called a cataract. While cataracts occur naturally as we age, they can also be accelerated by ultraviolet light, radiation, certain medications such as steroids, certain diseases such as diabetes, or previous injuries. Sometimes cataracts are even found in children. Cataract symptoms are varied, but may include blurry vision or faded color vision. Because cataracts usually develop gradually, many patients are surprised to learn that their vision has declined. Depending upon the type of cataract, some people are bothered by blurring in the distance, and others have difficulty with reading or close tasks. Some patients experience glare, halos around bright lights, and star-bursting; others find that they require increased lighting to see well.

What is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is the most common procedure performed in Americans over the age of 65 years, and has the highest success rate of any procedure performed in the body. During surgery, the cloudy lens is replaced with a clear, artificial lens that has been specially measured for each individual patient. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes, is performed under local anesthesia and requires no hospitalization, allowing patients to resume their normal activities shortly afterwards.

Recent advances in cataract surgery allow many patients to reduce their dependence on glasses or contacts after surgery. Your doctor will explain the difference between lenses and help you choose the one that best fits your lifestyle and needs. Read more about the Cataract Surgery Procedure and options available for enhancing your cataract surgery with Lifestyle Intraocular Lenses (IOLs). What should I expect at my office visit?

During your cataract consultation, expect a thorough medical history and comprehensive dilated eye examination. We recommend that you plan on an appointment length of approximately one to two hours. Please arrive a few minutes early or complete the registration form online prior to your appointment. In addition to offering our patients the highest quality eye care and the latest advances in surgical technology, we also provide 24-hour access to one of our ophthalmologists 7 days a week for any ocular emergency.

The Eye Care Group’s Board-certified ophthalmologists who specialize in cataract surgery include: Stanley Hersh, M.D., Aron Rose, M.D., Peter Branden, M.D., Yanina Kostina, M.D., Joel Geffin, M.D., Jonathan Silbert, M.D., and Cinthia Covey, M.D. Click any of the Doctor photos to the left to learn more about the individual doctors.

You may visit our Patient Education page or the Cataracts Procedure page to learn more about cataracts and the cataract surgery procedures available at our practice. For those patients interested in participating in cutting-edge cataract research, please visit our Clinical Trials page for more information on current studies.