For Healthcare Professionals
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn About the Myths, Facts and Fears Concerning Cataracts
What Is a Cataract?
Learn how cataracts affect your vision.
What Happens During Cataract Surgery?
Read about how cataracts are removed.
Am I a Candidate?
Discover if cataract surgery is right for you.
Costs and Insurance
Learn about costs for cataract surgery.
FAQs: Considering Surgery
How long will the surgery last?
When is the best time to have cataracts removed?
How do I know which lens implant is right for me?
Important Safety Information AcrySof® IOL Products
A Leap Forward in CataractSurgery
The LenSx® Laser Advantage
Important Safety Information LenSx® Lasers Products
Find an Eye Surgeon
Download Your Dr. Discussion Guide
How should I choose a surgeon?
How much does cataract surgery cost?
Before Cataract Surgery
During Cataract Surgery
After Cataract Surgery
What is the success rate for cataract surgery?
When can I expect my vision to be as good as it’s going to get?
"Had I known what I know now, I wouldn’t have hesitated for a moment."
Barbara Smith, Cataracts Patient
"Everything is brighter."
Charles Irving, Cataracts Patient
"Today’s cataract surgery is very different from cataract surgery just a few years ago."
Dr. Kerry Solomon, Carolina Eyecare Physicians
Myths, Facts and Fears
Learn the facts about cataract surgery.
A
People often believe that a cataract must be “ripe” or in a highly advanced stage to be removed. This is untrue. When a doctor sees signs of a cataract and you start to experience visual symptoms, you should speak with your doctor about cataract removal so that the cataract doesn’t interfere with your lifestyle.
If left untreated, the clouded area in your lens will continue to grow. The speed at which cataracts develop varies, but eventually your entire lens can become clouded, causing blindness.
You will have options based on the visual experience that best fits your lifestyle. Consult with your doctor to determine which type of intraocular lens (IOL) is best for you.
Yes. The procedure takes minimal time, and a local anesthetic eye drop will keep you from feeling pain. Some surgeons may also provide an oral medicine to help you relax.
The procedure typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, though you may need to allow two to three hours from walk in to walk out.
Doctors typically recommend a period of two or three weeks between procedures to reduce the risk of infection.
Download a Free Dr. Discussion Guide
Take control of your eye care with the System