Cataract FAQs

Answers from your Eye Doctors at Medical Eye Associates

Don’t Let Cloudy Vision Steal Your Life’s Best Moments

1. What are cataracts, really?

Cataracts are a clouding of your eye’s natural lens. They develop slowly, but left untreated, they steal your clarity, color perception, and night vision.

2. How do I know if I have a cataract?

Common signs: blurry or dim vision, halos around lights, glare, faded colors, and trouble seeing at night. Only an eye exam confirms it.

3. When is it time for cataract surgery?

When glasses don’t help and your vision interferes with daily life—driving, reading, recognizing faces—it’s time to consider surgery.

4. Does cataract surgery hurt?

No. It’s quick, usually 10–15 minutes per eye, done under local anesthesia with little to no discomfort.

5. Will I be awake during the procedure?

Yes, but relaxed. You’ll be comfortable and pain-free. Most patients say the experience was easier than expected.

6. What kind of lens will replace my cloudy one?

We offer advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs), including options that reduce your need for glasses. Your surgeon helps you choose the best one.

7. How fast is recovery?

Most people return to normal activities within 24–48 hours. Full vision improves over several days.

8. Is cataract surgery covered by insurance?

Yes—standard cataract surgery is typically covered by Medicare and private insurers. Premium lens upgrades may have out-of-pocket costs.

9. Can cataracts come back?

No—but sometimes a cloudy membrane can form after surgery. A quick, painless laser procedure (YAG capsulotomy) fixes it.

10. What are the risks?

Complications are rare. When done by skilled surgeons, cataract surgery is one of the safest procedures in medicine.