Cataract Surgery Steps and Options

Your vision. Your life.

You have two important decisions to make when it comes to your cataract surgery: how your new lens is implanted and what type of lens is implanted.

Cataract surgery is usually quick (about 15 minutes) and typically done as an outpatient procedure. You’ll be given a local anesthetic in the form of drops to numb your eye, and will be fully awake the whole time. If you feel any discomfort or pain during cataract surgery, be sure to let your doctor know.

Laser-assisted or manual cataract surgery?

Your doctor can either access your cataract manually or with laser-assisted surgery. Manual surgery is planned with measurements of your eye and incisions are made with a blade. Laser assisted surgery delivers a personalized, precise, and gentle approach in which a laser scans your eye to create a unique 3D blueprint and incisions are made with a laser.

During the procedure, you are awake and will be administered local anesthetic eye drops so you are more comfortable during the procedure. Regardless of the type of cataract surgery, there are three simple steps:

After your cataract surgery, most often you can resume your low-impact routine activities, with the exception of driving, after 24 hours. Ask your doctor when you can continue with your routine activities such as golfing, gardening, driving, traveling, or reading.

Discover the lens option that is best for you

Understanding laser cataract surgery steps and differences

What to expect on surgery day

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