Standard Cataract Surgery

Correct Your Vision with Standard Cataract Surgery

A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Cataracts typically develop as we age. Severe cataracts can lead to blurry vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and increased sensitivity to light.

In most cases, these symptoms require surgical intervention. There are two primary surgical options: standard cataract surgery and premium cataract surgery, also known as laser-assisted cataract surgery. Standard cataract surgery is quick, painless, and highly reliable. This cost-effective option has helped millions of patients enjoy healthy vision. It could be the right choice for you, too.

What is Standard Cataract Surgery?

Standard cataract surgery, also known as phacoemulsification or basic cataract surgery, has been a reliable cataract treatment for decades. It is quick and painless, usually taking 10-15 minutes in an outpatient facility. Recovery time is minimal, with no stitches needed to seal the surgical incision.

Here is a brief rundown of the procedure:

The eye is numbed with specially formulated drops
A small incision is made, no more than a few millimeters wide
High-frequency ultrasound breaks the cataract into thousands of tiny pieces
The cataract pieces are gently sucked out of the eye
An intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted in place of the old one

Standard cataract surgery restores clear vision almost immediately. This procedure is ideal for individuals with minor vision issues, but for those seeking to correct multiple eye conditions, such as astigmatism and hyperopia, premium cataract surgery is a more suitable option.

What are the Benefits of Standard Cataract Surgery?

Standard cataract surgery is a great choice for patients seeking clear, unclouded vision. A standard lens for cataract surgery does not eliminate multiple eye conditions, such as astigmatism or farsightedness, but it is typically covered by Medicare and most private insurers.

Other benefits include:

Proven track record of safety and effectiveness
Quick recovery time
Cost-effective vs. laser-assisted alternatives
Widely accessible
Delivers realistic vision improvements

Standard Lens Options for Cataract Surgery

A standard lens for cataract surgery, known as a monofocal lens, typically offers less vision correction than a premium lens. While both provide relief from cloudiness, monofocal lenses address a singular focal point to restore vision. If you do not have other eye conditions, such as astigmatism, or if you are comfortable wearing glasses, a standard lens will sufficiently address your needs.

Ideal Candidates for Standard Cataract Surgery

Always consult your eye doctor before receiving cataract surgery. They will help determine which form of surgery best meets your needs.

The best candidates for standard cataract surgery are those who:

Are looking for a cost-effective surgical option
Do not mind wearing glasses or contact lenses
Have certain eye conditions that make standard surgery more suitable
Do not need relief from astigmatism, hyperopia, or myopia

Standard vs. Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery

Standard Cataract Surgery

Widely accessible
Highly reliable, with millions of successful outcomes over decades
Less expensive than laser-assisted cataract surgery
Covered by most insurance policies
Manually performed by a surgeon
Does not correct patients’ astigmatism, myopia, or hyperopia

Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery

Offers more vision correction options
May have quicker recovery times
More expensive than standard cataract surgery
May not be entirely covered by insurance
Not all patients are eligible

What to Expect Before, During, and After Standard Cataract Surgery

An eye doctor will determine whether you need cataract surgery by performing a comprehensive eye exam. If you require surgery, your eye doctor will discuss your options and provide recommendations tailored to your eye health, vision goals, and financial needs.

Standard cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure that is performed in a surgery center. It usually takes between 10 and 15 minutes and is completely painless. Your eye is numbed before the operation, allowing the eye surgeon to make a tiny incision with little discomfort. Once the incision is made, the cataract is broken apart by ultrasonic frequency and removed with a specialized vacuum. A standard intraocular lens is then planted in place of the cataract to restore clear vision.

Postoperative recovery is typically painless and has a relatively quick timeline. No stitches are necessary, and vision typically improves within the next few days. In rare cases, you may experience minor eye inflammation.

Here are some general recovery tips:

Wear sunglasses when outdoors
Do not rub your eyes
Use eye drops as instructed by your surgeon
Avoid getting water in your eyes

Why Choose Midwest Vision Partners for Standard Cataract Surgery?

Midwest Vision Partners takes a patient-centric approach to eye care. We perform world-class surgery close to home, providing you with access to innovative treatments from highly skilled surgeons.

Our experienced eye doctors have your best interests at heart, developing a personalized eye care plan that considers your comfort, safety, and budget. We perform vision surgeries with eye-opening outcomes and quick recovery times.

Standard cataract surgery delivers a lifetime of clear vision with minimal recovery time. You have a clear path forward—we’ll help you take the next steps.