Cataract Surgery

Blurry or hazy vision and nighttime glare may be a sign that you have a cataract. A cataract occurs when the normally clear lens inside the eye becomes cloudy or opaque. Age is the most common culprit, but medication use, diseases (like diabetes), and trauma can also cause the lens to cloud. A cataract can also be present at birth. When a cataract affects your vision, your best option is the surgical removal of the cataract and placement of an intraocular lens (IOL) that permanently corrects your vision.

Cataract Surgery
This outpatient procedure takes less than 15 minutes to perform and requires only light sedation. Your surgeon makes a tiny incision with a small tool or a laser then uses ultrasound energy to remove the cataract. An artificial lens -- called intraocular lens or IOL -- is then implanted in the eye to replace your clouded lens. It is made of a foldable plastic material that lasts a lifetime. 

Recovery After Cataract Surgery
You will be sent home with a clear eye shield and can return to most activities within a few days. Most people experience no pain and have a rapid recovery with improved vision. It may take up to one month to achieve final results.

A Team of Experts
Cataract surgery is the most common surgery performed at the Duke Eye Center. Our surgeons are leaders in the field, employing innovative surgery techniques and devices. We are always seeking new ways to improve patients’ experiences and results.

Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery
Some people may benefit from the use of lasers to help make the incisions, soften the cataract, and correct astigmatism during cataract surgery. 

Astigmatism Correction
If your cornea is not completely round, called astigmatism, you may have blurring or distortion of your vision -- this is typically corrected with contacts or glasses. After careful evaluation, your surgeon may recommend one of two options to correct your astigmatism. We may use a special artificial lens implant, or we may recommend an alternate procedure called a limbal relaxing incision (LRI). A small incision is created to reshape your cornea and reduce astigmatism. LRI can often be performed at the same time as your cataract surgery manually or with a laser.

Simple Secondary Cataract Treatment
In a small percentage of cases, scarring or a secondary cataract may form on the membrane that supports the implanted lens. If this occurs in the months or years following your cataract surgery, we perform a short, painless, in-office laser procedure to create an opening that lets light shine through and eliminate the secondary cataract.

Compassionate, Supportive Environment
Deciding to have surgery on your eyes should not be taken lightly, and we are honored to be part of your journey to restore your vision. At Duke, our surgeons perform a comprehensive exam using the latest diagnostic equipment. This allows for the most accurate measurements to help plan your cataract surgery. We also offer patient support services including educational materials and programs. Out dedicated team of technicians, staff, and doctors will walk you through the steps and decision-making process associated with cataract surgery.