What does cataract surgery entail?

Surgery for cataracts is done using high-frequency ultrasound which softens the cataract, thus allowing it to be vacuumed out through a tiny incision under the eyelid or on the cornea. The incision is designed to not require sutures and seals on its own. Full activity is allowed after surgery. Many people golf, drive and enjoy a movie just a short time after treatment. To clarify one common misconception, lasers are typically not used in cataract surgery. They are being investigated currently and may one day provide an alternative to current techniques.

With state-of-the-art instruments, our surgeons can determine the power of the implant that will give the best visual outcome after treatment. Many people will see 20/40 or better on the first day, depending on previous astigmatism or other factors such as glaucoma or macular degeneration. If a person prefers, the power of the implant can be adjusted to provide clearer reading vision. There are also new lenses available that adjust to your eyes such as Crystalens, Symfony, or Activefocus.