What to Expect

During Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is so prevalent, it has become one of the safest and most effective surgical procedures performed in the U.S. Because general anesthesia is only necessary in rare circumstances, most people are in and out of their doctor’s office within two to three hours. Each doctor’s procedure will be slightly different, but you can usually expect the following:

• A topical anesthetic will be applied to your eye. You will be able to hear your surroundings but probably not see them.
• A small incision is made in the cornea with a hand-held blade or a laser machine. A thin probe breaks up the cataract and removes it. The new lens is inserted and the incision typically heals itself without the need for stitches.
• Most people do not feel any pain at all during the procedure, which typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.
• Once the procedure is completed, your eye will be covered with a bandage. This can usually be removed within a few hours.