Menu
(760) 598-0400

Cataract Surgery

At Prestera Eye, we utilize the latest technology to perform cataract surgery, to ensure patients patients receive the highest level of care and experience exceptional results. Our eye doctors, Dr. Tory Prestera and Dr. Howard Guan work with each of their patients to develop a customized treatment plan, which includes selecting an intraocular lens (IOL) that can best meet the patient’s needs. In your initial consultation, your eye surgeon will discuss the procedure in detail, explain the benefits and drawbacks of each type of IOL, and answer any questions you may have. If cataracts are affecting your vision, please contact us today to learn more about cataract surgery or to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled and experienced ophthalmologists.

What Is Cataract Surgery?

The goal of cataract surgery is simply to replace a cataract (a clouded, obstructed eye lens) with an IOL. When this procedure is performed by a qualified cataract surgeon, IOLs can not only remove the cloudy effect of the natural lens, but depending on the type of IOL used, can also improve other issues, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and even dependence on glasses or contacts. Furthermore, cataract surgery is performed frequently around the world (particularly in older patients), making it considered one of the safest surgical procedures available.

What Are the Benefits of Cataract Surgery?

In addition to sharper, clearer vision, the benefits of removing cataracts are connected to other lifestyle improvements. Along with relieving symptoms of blurriness, halos, and glare, patients can often see colors more vividly and objects more crisply. This may allow them to resume driving in daylight and nighttime, as well as have an easier experience reading, watching tv, knitting, playing cards, and engaging in other activities. Cataract surgery typically affords patients the option to choose a new lens that corrects farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism, which may ultimately reduce the need for bifocal or multifocal glasses after surgery. Without the need for bifocal or multifocal glasses, cataract surgery has been linked to a reduced risk of falling because improved vision may equate to a less likely chance of having an accident. Another benefit of surgically removing cataracts is the protection from other side effects, such as eye inflammation and increased pressure inside the eye that can lead to glaucoma and other eye conditions.

With all of this in mind, it is important to note that the most prominent benefit of cataract surgery is its ability to dramatically reduce the risk of total vision loss caused by cataracts. Since cataracts are likely to develop among the majority of individuals at some point in their lifetimes, it is very important to have annual eye exams so cataracts can be treated in their early stages.

Who Is a Candidate for Cataract Surgery?

Individuals who are in good overall health and do not suffer from certain serious eye diseases or conditions are typically considered good candidates for cataract surgery. There is no age limit for this procedure, so you cannot be considered “too old” for cataract surgery, as long as you meet the other candidacy requirements. Most cataract surgery patients are over the age of 45, but some younger patients may require cataract removal. In your consultation, Dr. Prestera or Dr. Guan can conduct a thorough examination and determine if you are eligible for this procedure.

How Is Cataract Surgery Performed?

During cataract surgery, your eye will be numbed with a topical anesthetic so our skilled surgeons can carefully remove the clouded lens from the eye through a tiny incision. This is accomplished by using ultrasonic waves to break it up into smaller pieces prior to removal. The eye’s natural lens is then replaced with an advanced artificial lens known as an intraocular lens (IOL). Prior to your procedure, your surgeon can discuss the different types of IOLs with you and recommend one that can best meet your needs.

Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure that generally takes 20 minutes or less to perform. However, it is important that you arrive on time for your appointment to complete any necessary pre-op paperwork before your surgery. Additionally, you will need to arrange transportation to and from your procedure.       

What Is Cataract Surgery Recovery Like?

Each patient’s recovery is a bit different, but your doctor can personalize your aftercare instructions, based on your unique lifestyle and needs. These post-op instructions should be carefully followed to ensure the success of your cataract surgery. Patients can typically resume their daily routine about 24-48 hours after surgery, although some activities may need to be avoided for at least a week, such as bending at the waist and heavy lifting. Vision can be a bit blurry at first, but this should resolve as your eye adjusts to the IOL in a few days. To promote proper healing, we will provide you with prescription eye drops. Dr. Prestera and Dr. Guan also recommend wearing protective eyewear as you recover.

After your surgery, we will schedule several follow-up appointments with you. It is crucial that you attend these post-op appointments so your doctor can monitor your healing and help you avoid potential complications.

What Are My Lens Replacement Options?

At Prestera Eye, we offer a wide variety of premium IOLs, enabling Dr. Prestera and Dr. Guan to customize the procedure to meet the unique needs of each patient. If you are nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism, certain types of IOLs can be used to help reduce or eliminate the effects of these refractive errors.

Monofocal Lenses 

Monofocal lenses are so named because they contain one point of focus. As such, they are able to serve one function — improving either nearsightedness or farsightedness — but unlike other lenses, they cannot do both at once. Monofocal lenses are sometimes used alongside glasses for this reason. 

Monovision Lenses

The placement of monovision lenses typically involves a unique approach, in which two different lenses are utilized to treat both nearsightedness and farsightedness. This method is ultimately meant to provide a balance in vision. 

Multifocal/Toric Lenses

Multifocal lenses are the preferred type of IOLs at our practice, as they possess the unique ability to treat both nearsightedness, farsightedness, and other impairments simultaneously. For instance, a multifocal IOL can be used to address presbyopia, which is an age-related condition that makes it difficult for the eye to focus on up-close activities such as reading and looking at your phone. 

If you are unsure which type of IOL will best treat your visual impairments, Dr. Prestera and Dr. Guan can help you decide during your consultation.

How Long Do the Results of Cataract Surgery Last?

Intraocular lens implants are designed to last for your lifetime. It is extremely rare for a complication to occur by fault of the lens; however, some patients may opt to replace their standard lens with an upgraded option, such as a multifocal lens, down the road. It is also important to note that other areas of the eye, such as the cornea, retinas, and optic nerves can be susceptible to conditions later in life that may impact your vision in other ways, but this is typically not related to the implanted IOL.

Does Insurance Cover Cataract Surgery?

In most cases, cataract surgery is considered a medically necessary procedure and may be at least partially covered by private health insurance companies, Medicare, and Medicaid. The coverage may include traditional monofocal cataract surgery, but elective options such as newer forms of surgery, different types of IOLs, and multiple pairs of glasses may require out-of-pocket costs. During your evaluation at Prestera Eye, our team will provide a comprehensive estimate of costs based on a customized treatment plan specific to your needs. It is also highly recommended to speak with a representative from your insurance provider about your specific policy so you have a clear understanding of all costs, including copayments, necessary medications, and other expenses, prior to scheduling surgery.

Please visit our Patient Information page for additional information on insurance, financing, and more.

How Much Does Cataract Surgery Cost?

Because the surgical techniques and types of IOLs vary considerably, the cost of cataract surgery will fluctuate, as well. The final price will also account for hospital fees, anesthesia, and more. We offer financing options to help you facilitate your payment, and are willing to speak with your insurance where applicable.

How Do I Choose an Eye Doctor for Cataract Surgery?

Given the precise and complex nature of this important treatment, choosing the right eye care professional is critical for cataract surgery. Ideally, selecting a skilled, highly-qualified ophthalmologist with extensive training and experience is recommended for optimal results. When seeking a doctor, be sure to do your own research and ask questions to help you make an informed decision. Here are a few key suggestions to consider during your search:

Another factor to consider is the level of comfort and communication between doctor and patient. There should be a foundation and feeling of trust within a welcoming environment. Visiting the office and interacting with the doctors and staff can be beneficial to ensure you feel safe and at ease at all times.

Please visit our About page to learn more about our doctors and our practice.

Contact Prestera Eye Medical Group

If you are suffering from vision loss due to cataracts and want to speak with one of our experienced ophthalmologists about cataract surgery, please contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Prestera or Dr. Guan.