How Is Cataract Surgery Done? A Patient’s Guide to Clearer Vision

Cataract surgery isn’t just a medical procedure; it’s a life-changing chance to reclaim the gift of clear vision. As cataracts progress, they can cause profound visual impairment, turning simple tasks—like reading a book, enjoying a sunset, or driving—into daunting challenges. By learning how cataract surgery is done, you address vision loss with confidence, and transform these challenges into opportunities for renewed engagement with the world.

What Are Cataracts?

At around age 40, proteins begin to break down, forming cloudy patches in your eye’s natural lens. This is a normal part of aging, so if you’re 55+ and notice that visual tasks are becoming challenging, it’s time to get looked at.

How a Cataract Affects Your Vision

Cataracts can significantly impact your vision, causing:

• Cloudy, blurry, or filmy vision
• Faded or less vivid colors
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Glare and halos around lights
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Double vision

When Is Surgery Recommended?

Before worrying about how cataract surgery is done, it’s important to ask “when is cataract surgery actually needed?” The recommendation for treatment is when your vision loss interferes with your daily activities.

Preoperative Prep – Getting Ready for the Procedure

Preparing for cataract surgery involves several important steps to ensure the best possible outcome.

1. Visit Your Eye Doctor and Discuss IOL Options: A week before surgery, your doctor will conduct a thorough eye exam and perform tests to measure your eye’s size and shape. During this visit, your surgeon will also discuss different intraocular lens (IOL) options with you and calculate the appropriate power to ensure the best fit.

2. Complete a Physical Exam and Lab Work: A physical exam and lab work within 30 days of surgery ensures you are in good health for the procedure.

3. Use Prescribed Eye Drops: Begin using prescribed eye drops as directed, typically including an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory, to reduce the risk of infection.

4. Adjust Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some may need to be paused before surgery.

5. Fasting: You may be instructed not to eat or drink anything for several hours before the procedure, as this is important for how cataract surgery is done.

6. Arrange Transportation: Ensure you have transportation arranged for the day of surgery and the following day, as your vision will be temporarily impaired.

The Day of Surgery – What to Expect?

• Arrival and Check-In: Upon arriving at the outpatient surgical center, you’ll check in and be guided through any necessary paperwork. The staff will ensure you’re comfortable and answer any last-minute questions you might have.
• Pre-Surgery Preparation: You’ll be taken to a pre-operative area where medical staff will administer anesthetic eye drops to numb your eye, and a mild sedative can be given for relaxation.

The Surgical Procedure – Step-by-Step Process

The step-by-step process of how cataract surgery is done typically lasts less than 30 minutes. The steps include:

1. The surgeon makes a small incision in your cornea to access the cloudy lens.

2. Using phacoemulsification, the lens is broken up with ultrasonic waves.

3. The fragmented pieces are gently removed with suction.

4. An intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted.

5. Your condition is monitored in a recovery area for a short time.

6. You’ll be given at-home care instructions and allowed to go home with a companion.

If you want to learn more about what the best implants for cataract surgery are, read our full 2024 guide here.

Recovery and Aftercare Following Cataract Surgery

Exploring how cataract surgery is done includes the road to recovery, and the instructions you’ll need to follow to take proper care of yourself.

• Immediate Post-operative Care: The first few days will include light sensitivity, gritty or watery eyes, and blurred vision. When at home, use the eye drops as prescribed, avoid lifting heavy items, and protect your eyes from bright lights.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Typically scheduled the day after surgery, 1-2 weeks later, and then 2-3 months post-surgery, these visits are an essential part of how cataract surgery is successfully done. You can ask questions, address concerns, have complications detected early, and they ensure optimal healing and visual outcomes.
• Possible Cataract Surgery Complications: While rare, complications can include infection, retinal detachment, and dislocation of the IOL.

Choose Your Cataract Surgeon With Confidence

Find the best surgeon near you today and take the first step toward clearer vision and a brighter future.