Cataract symptoms vary depending on the type and stage of cataract, but often include blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, glare from lights, faded colors, and frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions.

Diagnosis is made through a comprehensive eye exam that evaluates visual acuity, lens clarity, pupil dilation findings, retinal health, and overall eye anatomy. Imaging and measurements help determine the severity of cataracts and guide treatment planning.

Surgery is recommended based on how much vision loss affects daily activities — not simply how a cataract appears during an exam.

Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure is typically performed as an outpatient surgery, completed in under 30 minutes, and done using local anesthesia with mild sedation.

During surgery:

• A small incision is made in the eye
• The cataract is gently broken up and removed
• A new artificial lens is implanted
• The incision self-seals without stitches

Patients are awake but comfortable, and most experience little to no pain.

Cataract surgery is also an opportunity to improve vision beyond removing cloudiness. Modern intraocular lenses allow surgeons to tailor vision outcomes based on lifestyle, eye health, and visual goals.

Lens options include:

• Monofocal lenses for single-distance clarity
• Multifocal lenses for near and distance vision
• Toric lenses to correct astigmatism
• Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) lenses
• Light Adjustable Lenses that can be fine-tuned after surgery

No single lens is right for everyone, which is why lens selection is a personalized decision made with a surgeon.

Recovery after cataract surgery is typically smooth and gradual. Many patients notice improved vision within days, with continued healing over several weeks.

Common recovery experiences include:

• Mild irritation or scratchiness
• Temporary light sensitivity
• Vision fluctuations as the eye heals

Prescription eye drops are used to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activity and eye rubbing during early recovery.

Once cataracts are removed, they do not return. The implanted artificial lens remains clear for life.

Many patients report:

• Brighter, clearer vision
• Improved color perception
• Better night vision
• Greater independence
• Reduced reliance on glasses (depending on lens choice)