What to Expect - Cataract

Cataract surgery is performed at an outpatient surgical center, and is a relatively quick procedure. Typically, patients can expect to spend a couple of hours at the surgical center, and go home shortly after the procedure is completed.

You can expect to arrive approximately one hour prior to your procedure. Your specific surgery time will be determined by the surgery center the day before your procedure. Once you have checked in, you will begin to be prepared for surgery by the medical staff. The nurses will clean the area around your eye, and numbing eye drops will be applied.

The procedure will begin with your surgeon making a tiny incision, less than 1/8 of an inch wide, and using a gentle vacuum instrument to remove the natural lens from your eye. Next, through the same micro-incision, the new intraocular lens will be inserted, unfolded, and placed into the proper position. The incision is “self-healing” and usually requires no stitches — it heals quickly and provides a much more comfortable recuperation. The whole procedure usually takes approximately 15-30 minutes.​

​​​​​​​You will go home shortly after the surgery and relax for the rest of the day. Everyone heals somewhat differently, but many patients report visual improvements within a few hours of their procedure. Most patients return to their normal activities within a day or two, with some limited restrictions for 1-2 weeks. Your surgeon will discuss any restrictions with you.