The eye is like a camera with lenses in the front and film in the back. Cataracts, whether from trauma, genetics or age, are a clouding of the natural lens impairing the ability of the eye to focus. To restore vision cataract surgery replaces the natural lens with an artificial lens

Over a half-century of surgical innovation and technological advancement have refined cataract surgery allowing it to be highly successful with only rare complications.

During cataract surgery a small incision is made in the outside or temporal part of the cornea. A special jelly (viscoelastic) is then placed in the front part of the eye (anterior chamber). Then a round opening is created in the bag that holds the lens.

An ultrasound powered instrument (phacoemulsification) is then used to remove the lens from the bag which is then gently cleaned and polished. A new lens is then injected into the bag.

After it unfolds and is centered the jelly or viscoelastic placed early in the case is removed and the incision is closed. Sutures are usually not required. Most cases are done under topical anesthesia with the patient not having any pain.