About Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is the most effective treatment for cataracts. The procedure requires removing the lens of your eye and replacing it with an intraocular lens (IOL). The surgery itself takes approximately 15-30 minutes. The surgeon removes the cloudy lens then inserts the new IOL into place. With traditional phacoemulsification cataract surgery a small incision is made into the eye at the junction of the cornea and sclera in such a manner that typically sutures are not needed.  An opening is then made in capsular bag that holds the cloudy cataractous lens.  Using a phaco probe tip, ultrasound is used to break up and then vacuum out the cataract.  A clear intraocular lens is then placed back into the eye to restore vision. With this technique, best vision is restored and the eye heals rapidly.

Diagram of cataract surgery

Cataract surgery does not treat decreased vision due to other ocular conditions such as corneal disease and/or scarring, glaucoma, or disease of the retina including macular degeneration.

Before the procedure the cataract surgeon will conduct a comprehensive eye exam to determine your eye health and a refraction test to determine the amount of nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism present. These preparations assist the cataract surgeon in selecting the proper intraocular lens to give you the best vision possible after surgery.

The most recent development in cataract surgery is Laser assisted cataract surgery which was FDA approved in 2012.  In this procedure the corneal incisions, capsular opening, fragmentation of the central portion of the cataract as well as correction of corneal induced astigmatism are created with a femtosecond laser in a more precise manner than can be achieved with manual instruments.  The subsequent removal of the lens fragments and cortical cleanup of the lens are the performed with the standard phaco probe.  This two-step process has the additional advantage of being able to more precisely treat corneal astigmatism than can be done with a handheld blade or instrument.  Another additional advantage is that less ultrasound energy is required which may decrease potential trauma to the cornea providing faster visual recovery. Contact our Stockton, Tracy or Lodi Cataract Centers to see if you are a good candidate for this exciting technology.

Related Pages

Cataract Center Premium Lens Self-TestAbout Cataract Surgery
LASIK Self-Test Cataract Self-Test Schedule Appointment

What our Patients Say

‍A few years ago, I decided to have laser eye surgery to correct my lifelong problem with nearsightedness.  Before that I always wore glasses or contacts.  I remember having frequent problems with contacts which would lead to problems with sunglasses or diving masks and the like.  when I chose to have eye surgery, I decided to go with Dr. Narvaez.  As a surgeon myself, I knew of his reputation and we had some patients in common and I was always impressed by his work.  Therefore, the choice was clear to me even though I knew many other Doctors who could do the procedure. After the procedure, I had excellent vision.  I love my new vision and enjoy being glasses and contacts free.  Dr. Narvaez is an excellent surgeon and I highly recommend him.

John Y. Kim, M.D.

‍Head and Neck Surgeon

What our Patients Say

I endorse my ophthalmologist, Julio Narvaez, MD.I have known him since moving to Loma Linda University in 2010.I was referred to him by a trusted friend and Ophthalmologist and was his patient; he is caring, bright and understood the problem and how I needed to be treated. He explained my options and allowed me to feel I had chosen my treatment while gently steering me the right direction. He was flexible when I asked to have my choice of anesthesia, which was local without sedation. He was not bothered by my continuous alertness during the surgery.

He is a bright and flexible surgeon, who makes excellent personal decisions and keeps perspective in his work and life.I would happily return to him for more care when needed.I endorse him without reservation and am glad to consider him a friend and colleague. Sincerely,

Dean A Hadley, MD Loma Linda University

Associate Professor of Urology, President of the Western Section of the American Urological Society

What our Patients Say

It’s amazing to have new technology nowadays. Previously, I had worn eyeglasses for over 35 years. After having Symfony lenses implanted into both eyes, it’s a wonderful feeling to be able to read almost everything without glasses. All the worries and fears prior to the surgery were for nothing. It’s awesome; my vision is clearer and better!  I’m so grateful to have a very good, knowledgeable, and hardworking team. My experiences with you will forever be in my heart. God is so good. He will always guide me all the way.

Lilia

CONTACT US