How Cataract Surgery Works?

Cataract Surgery

More than 3 million Americans have cataract surgery every year. Cataract surgery is considered a relatively simple and safe procedure when performed by an experienced surgeon.

Steps in Cataract Surgery

The surgeons at the Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado take great pride in our cataract surgery techniques, and we work hard to make our patients as comfortable as possible during each step of the process.

1. Topical and local anesthesia through an IV is used to numb the eye and calm the nerves.
2. A small clip is used to keep the eye open throughout the procedure.
3. A small incision is made on the eye surface using a hand-held blade or by using a femtosecond laser.
4. The cataract-affected lens is gently removed from the eye using one of two procedures: Phacoemulsification, where ultrasound waves gently break apart the lens to allow for its removal, or by using the femtosecond laser to soften and break up the cataract.
5. A replacement intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted. You and your doctor will have already discussed which type of IOL you will have implanted. You may choose a monofocal IOL (for clear vision at one distance), an Active Lifestyle Lens (for vision at multiple distances) or Toric (astigmatism).
6. The incision heals on its own, typically without the need for stitches.

The entire procedure takes 10-15 minutes per eye. Cataract surgery is only performed on one eye at a time to allow for proper healing. If necessary, your second eye surgery will be scheduled a minimum of two weeks later.

Your doctor will go over the risks, benefits and alternatives at your consultation visit.

If your cataract symptoms are becoming increasingly worse and inhibiting your ability to perform daily tasks, contact us today to schedule your cataract consultation.