Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery removes the clouded natural lens of the eye and replaces it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). It is the most commonly performed surgery in the US, with over 4 million procedures annually. Modern cataract surgery uses phacoemulsification, an ultrasound technique to break up the lens.

Cataract surgery is done when cataracts cause blurred vision, glare, difficulty with night driving, or faded colors that interfere with daily activities. Cataracts affect over 24 million Americans aged 40 and older and are the leading cause of blindness worldwide.

Eye drops (antibiotics and anti-inflammatory) are started days before surgery. You must fast for several hours. Arrange a driver for after the procedure. Your ophthalmologist will measure your eye to determine the proper IOL power.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation. Through a tiny 2-3mm incision, the surgeon uses ultrasound to fragment the clouded lens, suctions it out, and inserts a folded IOL that unfolds inside the eye. It takes 15-30 minutes per eye.

Most patients notice improved vision within a few days. Eye drops are used for 4-6 weeks. Avoid rubbing the eye, heavy lifting, and swimming for 1-2 weeks. A protective shield is worn at night. Full visual recovery typically occurs within 4-8 weeks.

Risks include infection (endophthalmitis, rare at 0.05%), posterior capsule opacification (treatable with laser), retinal detachment, increased eye pressure, lens dislocation, and refractive surprise.

Early cataracts may be managed with stronger glasses, magnifying lenses, or anti-glare sunglasses. However, there is no medication or eye drop that can reverse cataracts. Surgery is the only definitive treatment.

Medicare covers standard cataract surgery and a basic monofocal IOL. Premium IOLs (multifocal, toric) and laser-assisted surgery involve additional out-of-pocket costs of $1,000-$4,000 per eye. Most private insurers follow Medicare guidelines.