Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is a highly effective way to restore your vision and maintain your independence as you age. Almost everyone develops cataracts if they live long enough. Much like gray hair, some people notice these changes earlier than others.

So, what is it? Cataract is the natural clouding of the lens inside the eye. In a healthy eye, this lens is clear and flexible. As we age, the proteins within the lens begin to clump together, making the lens cloudy and yellowish. This prevents light from passing through clearly to the retina, resulting in blurred or dimmed vision.

Cataract Symptoms

Symptoms develop slowly over time and do not cause pain. You should schedule a consultation if you notice any of the following:

• Blurred or “foggy” vision that cannot be corrected with new glasses
• Having trouble seeing at night
• More sensitive to light than previously ( especially from headlights or streetlights while driving at night)
• Seeing halos around lights
• Bright colors appear faded, yellowed, or less vibrant
• Double vision or a “ghosted image” from the eye that has cataracts

Your Surgical Experience

Your safety and comfort are our primary concerns during cataract surgery. As an outpatient procedure, you will be able to return home the same day. While the actual surgery is highly efficient, typically lasting only 15 to 30 minutes per eye, please prepare to spend several hours at the facility to accommodate pre-operative steps and a short recovery window.

Depending on your location, time frames vary: plan for 3 to 4 hours if your procedure is at a hospital, or 2 to 3 hours if you are at the Lakewalk Surgery Center.

Rather than general anesthesia, we typically use numbing eye drops for your comfort. You will remain awake and reclined on your back, focusing on a bright light while the surgeon makes a small incision to replace your cloudy lens with a clear plastic one. Your surgeon will maintain a dialogue with you throughout; if you experience any discomfort, please let them know immediately.

Healing and Recovery After Cataract Surgery

Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how rapidly they can return to their daily routines. Within just 24 to 48 hours, the majority of people notice a substantial improvement in their vision.

It is normal to experience a minor scratchy sensation or some slight blurring for the first day or two as your eye begins to heal. To support this process, we provide specialized eye drops designed to reduce inflammation and protect against infection.

How long after cataract surgery can you drive?

Your safety remains our top priority. Because of the dilation and sedatives used during the procedure, you will need someone to drive you home on the day of your surgery. However, most patients receive clearance to drive as soon as the following day, provided their vision meets legal standards during their first follow-up visit.

New Advanced Cataract Treatment Options

Relf EyeCare is the first eye clinic in the area to offer Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) And The Light Delivery Device (LDD) Treatment!

This exciting new treatment allows eye doctors to adjust the prescription of the lens inside your eye after the surgery is complete. Adjustments take as little as 90 seconds. Patients who receive the Light Adjustable Lens are twice as likely to achieve 20/20 vision at 6 months without the need for glasses.

Want to learn more? Schedule your appointment by calling 218-720-3553.

Cataract Surgery Cost and Insurance

Understanding the financial aspect of your care is important for your peace of mind. Standard cataract surgery is considered a medically necessary procedure. This means it is generally covered by Medicare and most private insurance plans. Your out-of-pocket cost typically includes your standard deductible and any co-insurance or co-pays required by your specific plan.

If you choose “premium” options, such as the Light Adjustable Lens or specialized lenses that correct astigmatism and presbyopia, there are additional elective fees. These upgrades are not typically covered by insurance. Our surgical coordinators provide a clear breakdown of all costs before you schedule your procedure, so there are no surprises.

Cataract Surgery FAQ’s

Where do I go for my Cataract surgery?

The surgeons at Relf EyeCare Specialists operate at both St. Luke’s and Miller Dwan (Essentia) Hospitals, as well as Lakewalk Surgery Center. Please let us know if you have a preference.

What if I have glaucoma and cataracts?

Patients who have glaucoma and cataracts may be candidates for an iStent. might benefit from a new medical device that can lower intraocular pressure. This is a tiny medical device implanted during cataract surgery to help lower eye pressure. It may reduce the need for daily glaucoma eye drops. Visit this link to learn more about iStent.

How do I schedule a cataract evaluation?

Call our office at 218-720-3553, and our staff will schedule you with the surgeon of your choice. If you have recently been examined by an eye doctor outside of Relf EyeCare, please forward a copy of that exam to our office or bring it with you to your visit.

Where can I get more information about cataracts?

We recommend visiting the American Academy of Ophthalmology to get more in-depth information on cataracts. (ASCRS, Mayo)