What Is a Cataract — and Why Does Surgery Help?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that gradually reduces the quality of vision. Most cataracts are age-related — over time, proteins in the lens clump together, making vision cloudy or dim. When cataracts interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces, cataract surgery becomes the best option. The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL).
When Is Cataract Surgery Recommended?
There’s no set rule for when to have cataract surgery. The decision depends on how much your vision problems affect your daily life. Surgery is usually recommended when glasses or stronger lighting no longer help, driving or reading becomes difficult, or glare around lights interferes with activities.
Types of Cataract Surgery and Lens Options
The most common technique is phacoemulsification, where an ultrasonic probe breaks up the cloudy lens and removes it through a small incision. A new IOL is inserted to restore focus. Lens options include monofocal, multifocal/EDOF, and toric lenses depending on your needs.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Cataract Surgery
Before surgery: You’ll receive numbing eye drops and a mild sedative. You’ll be awake but comfortable.
During surgery: The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an IOL. The procedure usually lasts 15–60 minutes.
After surgery: Most people notice clearer vision within 1–2 days, with full healing in a few weeks.
Cataract Surgery Safety and Risks
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful surgeries, with over 95% of patients experiencing improved vision. Potential risks include infection, bleeding, swelling, or retinal detachment. Your ophthalmologist will explain personal risk factors.
How to Choose the Right Cataract Surgeon
At Cali Eye Institute, book a consult with Dr. Babak Shabatian, M.D. is a board certified ophthalmologist and Physician Owner and founder and director of Cali Eye and Laser Institute.
Dr. Shabatian is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) or American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS). He has been a recipient of the Castle Connolly Top Doctor Award for 7 years in a row as voted by his peers for excellence as a eye surgeon and ophthalmology.
Ask your doctor about their experience, complication rates, and recommended lenses.
Patient FAQ: Common Questions About Cataract Surgery
- Is cataract surgery painful? No, the eye is numbed with drops or anesthesia.
- How long does it take to recover? Vision usually improves within 24–48 hours.
- Will I need glasses afterward? It depends on the IOL type.
- Can both eyes be done at once? Usually, surgeries are spaced a few weeks apart.
- Is cataract surgery covered by insurance? Yes, standard IOLs are typically covered by insurance or Medicare.
Cataract surgery restores clear vision and improves quality of life. Trust your care to a board-certified surgeons at Cali Eye Institute. They are waiting to see you for an in-person consultation at any one of three locations, Torrance, Ventura and Lancaster. Schedule your consult today.