A Guide to Laser Vision Correction

Other Vision Correction Procedures

Cataract Surgery

For patients with significant cataracts who are looking to correct their nearsightedness or farsightedness, cataract surgery presents the best option. A cataract is a haziness of the natural lens inside the eye that impairs vision. After removing the cataract, the surgeon can implant a lens that will reduce or eliminate nearsightedness and farsightedness and potentially reduce presbyopia. Astigmatism, too, can be treated at the time of cataract surgery, either with AK (see above) or with a special astigmatic lens implant.

Modern cataract surgery, when performed by an experienced surgeon, can allow patients a recovery period rather similar to that of LASIK. In its most sophisticated form, cataract surgery can be performed with eyedrop anesthesia (as with LASIK or PRK) and require no sutures. An outpatient procedure in skilled hands, it takes twenty minutes or less to complete.

Refractive Lens Exchange »