How Long Does Cataract Surgery Take?

The natural lens in your eye ages and begins to cloud as you get older. Everyone will eventually develop cataracts. The development of cataracts causes vision to become cloudy, blurry, and makes vibrant colors appear dull. At ReVision LASIK & Cataract Surgery, we provide effective cataract solutions to help restore quality vision. During cataract surgery, the natural cloudy lens is removed and replaced by a new clear intraocular lens. Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed surgery in the United States. This safe outpatient procedure takes only minutes to perform.

Average Cataract Surgery Timeframe

Cataract removal is a safe and typically a fairly quick procedure. You will be given a mild sedative through an IV to help you reach a relaxed twilight state. Eye drops are also used to numb the eye. During the procedure, your surgeon will break-up the cloudy lens either manually by hand or with laser assistance, based on your selected surgical method. The lens fragments are removed and a new intraocular lens in placed back inside the eye. This new intraocular lens is crystal clear and, if you choose, can have the capability to correct nearsightedness and farsightedness. Premium lens options are another way patients can incorporate technology into their cataract procedure to enjoy the best possible vision.

If cataracts are present in both eyes, the procedure is performed on one eye at a time, waiting a few weeks between surgeries. Whether you choose to have a laser-assisted or manual cataract procedure, the average duration of the procedure is fairly quick.

1. Type of Surgery

Patients can choose to have a manual or laser-assisted cataract procedure. When an eye surgeon performs a manual surgery, all steps of the procedure are performed by the surgeon with no laser assistance. During laser-assisted cataract surgery, a laser is used to perform the delicate steps of the procedure, including fragmenting the cloudy cataract lens. Laser technology delivers exact precision and can expedite healing. Both methods of cataract surgery are safe, deliver improved vision, and on average take 30 minutes to perform.

2. Surgeon’s Experience Level

ReVision’s surgeons are Fellowship-trained Corneal Specialists, meaning they have completed additional specialized training. ReVision also believes in utilizing and educating patients on the best laser and lens technology available. By incorporating technology, you can experience a more efficient cataract surgery that delivers customized vision.

3. After Surgery

At ReVision LASIK & Cataract Surgery, we do everything to prevent complications before, during, and after surgery. Our team thoroughly reviews after care instructions on several occasions throughout the process so you are prepared and know what to expect. Vision will be blurry for a few days after surgery. This is normal as the medication inside the eye dissolves and the eye heals. Follow all after care instructions as directed and contact ReVision with any questions.

When To Get Cataract Surgery

When it becomes challenging to see while doing routine daily activities, it’s time to seek a professional diagnosis to determine if you have cataracts. Blurry or cloudy vision, seeing halos or glare around lights, or having difficulty driving at night are all symptoms of cataracts. The Team at ReVision LASIK and Cataract Surgery is trained to assist you on your journey to clear vision. Patients can enjoy perhaps the best vision of their lifetime after cataract surgery.