Ask a doctor - How is a cataract removed?

Q. How is a cataract removed?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

A cataract is removed by making a small incision in the eye and then using an instrument to remove the lens. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, which numbs the eye. It usually takes less than 30 minutes.

After the cataract is removed, an artificial lens (intraocular lens, or IOL) is placed in the eye. The IOL helps to focus light on the retina and restores your vision. You will likely need to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses after surgery to help address any residual refractive error not corrected by the IOL.

Cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed today, and modern techniques are very safe and effective.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Answer:

A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye which leads to decreased vision. Cataracts are very common, affecting millions of people around the world.

There are various ways to remove a cataract, but the most common method is surgery. During surgery, an incision is made in the eye and the cloudy lens is removed. The new lens can be either artificial or natural (from a donor).

The surgery itself is typically quick and relatively painless. Recovery times vary but are usually pretty short. Most people are able to see well within a few days or weeks after surgery.