Cataract surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, and is a brief procedure. After the cataract surgery, patients can go home to rest in comfort, and follow their doctor's instructions.

Currently, there is no medical treatment to reverse or prevent the development of cataracts. Once they form, there is only one way to achieve clear vision again, and that is to physically remove the cataract from inside the eye and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

There have been many advances in cataract surgery techniques and IOL technology in recent years. With over one million cataract surgery procedures performed each year many patients now experience a quality of vision that is even better than before they developed cataracts.

Your cataracts will be removed with an advanced technique called phacoemulsification, or small-incision cataract surgery. After the eye is completely numbed, a self-sealing incision is made in the sclera (white part of the eye), or in the clear cornea (just about the area where the cornea meets the sclera).

The cataract is then broken in microscopic particles using high-energy sound waves, and gently suctioned from the eye. Then, to compensate for the removal of eye's natural lens, an intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted into the "capsular bag", the same thin tissue that held your natural lens. Once the lens is positioned, the eye remains tightly sealed by the natural outward pressure within your eye.

Many patients are able to see with clear vision much sooner after the surgery. In most cases, it is now possible to return to daily activities, such as driving and reading, almost immediately.

After your surgery, you will notice a gradual improvement in your comfort and vision. Occasionally, a sensation of grittiness, or 'sand in the eye' is mentioned and this will go away and Tylenol will help. Please enjoy something to eat and take a nap when you get home. Your vision will fluctuate. You may shampoo or shower, but do not get soap or water in your eye. You may watch television, use the computer, or read, as long as it is comfortable for you. Do not drive, drink alcohol, or make important decisions the day of surgery.