Cataracts

A cataract is a natural clouding of the eye’s lens that develops over time. As the lens becomes less clear, vision may appear blurry, dim, or hazy.

Cataracts are very common and typically develop with age, though they can also be influenced by medical conditions such as diabetes, medications, or prior eye injury.

Many patients notice increasing difficulty with everyday activities such as reading, driving at night, or seeing clearly in bright light.

In the early stages, vision changes from cataracts may be managed with updated glasses or improved lighting.

When cataracts begin to interfere with daily activities, cataract surgery is the most effective treatment.

Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens implant. It is one of the most commonly performed and successful procedures in medicine.

At Orchard Ophthalmology, we guide patients through the decision-making process and create a personalized plan based on their vision goals and lifestyle.

• Board-certified ophthalmologist – Your care is always led by a physician with advanced medical and surgical training.

• Personalized approach – We take the time to understand your vision needs and tailor recommendations accordingly.

• Modern technology – Advanced diagnostics help us evaluate your eyes and plan surgery with precision.

• Independent, patient-focused care – No corporate influence—just thoughtful, relationship-based medicine.

When is cataract surgery necessary?
Cataract surgery is recommended when vision changes begin to interfere with your daily activities, such as driving, reading, or work.

Is cataract surgery painful?
The procedure is typically very comfortable. Most patients experience little to no pain during surgery.

How long does cataract surgery take?
The procedure itself usually takes about 10–20 minutes, though you should plan to be at the surgical center longer for preparation and recovery.

How long is the recovery?
Vision often begins improving within a few days, with continued improvement over the following weeks.

Will I still need glasses after surgery?
Many patients still need glasses for certain activities after surgery, though this depends on your eye and the lens chosen.

Is cataract surgery safe?
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most commonly performed procedures, with a very high success rate.