CATARACT SURGERY

Cataract surgery is most commonly performed in an ambulatory surgery center with mild sedation under the supervision of an anesthesiologist. Most patients spend about 3 hours in the surgery center being prepared for surgery, though the surgery itself typically takes 15-30 minutes depending on complexity. 

​

During cataract surgery the surgeon makes a small incision (usually 2 millimeters) through the clear part of the eye, called the cornea. 

​

We create an opening in the shell of the cataract. The shell is actually clear, so we can leave this part behind. It is this shell that provides a pocket to place a new, artificial lens. Once we have opened this shell ultrasonic energy is used to break down the cataract and vacuum is used to remove the fragments. We are then able to fold a customized lens and insert it into the eye through this 2 mm incision, where it unfolds in the pocket. Stitches usually not required because the incision is small and seals closed by itself! 

 

Cataract surgery can also be performed with the assistance of a laser. The laser can be used do many of the steps of the surgery with exquisite accuracy. The laser also helps treat astigmatism which can lead to improved glasses free vision.