Cataract Surgery: A Clear Path to Better Vision

Whether you like it or not, cataracts are a natural result of aging. An estimated 25 million Americans have them, including half of all people aged 75 to 79.

The good news is that cataract surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures and the most effective for restoring vision impaired by cataracts. Performed nearly 4 million times annually in the U.S., it’s been described as “life-changing” as it improves vision, reduces dependence on glasses, enhances color perception, and reduces glare. 

The need for surgery stems from a clouding of the eye’s lens. This clouding—or cataract, can cause vision problems, including:

• Blurry or dim vision

• Difficulty seeing at night

• Sensitivity to light

• Seeing halos around lights

• Fading or yellowing of colors

Over time, these symptoms can significantly impact daily life and lead to people limiting activities they once enjoyed.

The only way to treat cataracts is by replacing the damaged lens with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). A typical procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes per eye and delivers a 95% success rate.

Because the procedure is performed while the patient is awake, a calming sedative is given in addition to a numbing gel and eye drops to prevent any discomfort. Sometimes a numbing injection is given.

The surgeon then makes a small incision in the cornea and uses ultrasound to break up the cataract. Once the old lens is removed, the IOL is inserted. The focusing power of your IOL will be determined and prescribed by your ophthalmologist.

Typically, the corneal incision is self-sealing, meaning no stitches are required.  

If you have cataracts in both eyes, surgeries are commonly performed several days to weeks apart.

Recovery from cataract surgery is generally quick, with most people experiencing improved vision within a few days. Sometimes patients are asked to wear a protective shield over the eye while sleeping for a few days post-surgery and are often prescribed medicated eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. It’s extremely important to not rub or place any pressure on the eye in the days following surgery. Your ophthalmologist will advise you when you can resume normal activities, including exercise.

The type of IOL used will determine what kind of eyeglasses—if any— you will need to wear going forward. Some types of IOLs can reduce your dependence on eyeglasses for the rest of your life.

As unpleasant as eye surgery may sound, many patients regret waiting so long to have the procedure.

If you have questions or concerns about cataracts or your vision in general, speak to your eye care professional.

Estela Ogiste, MD PhD, is an Ophthalmologist at Advanced Eyecare in Bennington and Manchester, Vermont and North Adams, Massachusetts.