Cataract Surgery and What to Expect | Johnson & Johnson

Question 1

If I have a cataract, am I a candidate for any IOL?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your eye anatomy and medical history, you may not be a candidate for certain IOLs. Talk to your eye care professional about what IOLs you are a candidate for and which best would suit your lifestyle.

Question 2

Is cataract surgery the same as refractive surgery (or LASIK)?

Accepted Answer

Refractive surgery uses a laser to reshape the cornea to help focus light on your retina minimizing your need for glasses and contact lenses. Cataract surgery is removing the cloudy lens and replacing with an artificial IOL implant. It is important to remember that typically refractive surgery is very customized, but cataract surgery may have more limitations. The procedures are not the same.

Question 3

Will I need reading glasses again?

Accepted Answer

While there are types of IOLs designed to minimize your need for glasses, it is not realistic to think you will never need reading glasses after cataract surgery.

Question 4

Will my vision be immediately improved one day after surgery?

Accepted Answer

In any surgery there is healing time. The same goes for cataract surgery, give your eyes time to heal and your brain to adjust to a new way of seeing.

Question 5

If, after surgery, I see rings when looking at lights, is something wrong?

Accepted Answer

Some types of IOLs manipulate light to give you more than just distance vision. Seeing rings at night is a common result of this light manipulation and does not mean something is wrong. It is important to understand these trade-offs prior to cataract surgery, so talk to your eye care professional about what option is right for you.

Question 6

If I have near vision before surgery, will I have near vision after surgery?

Accepted Answer

There are a few reasons why you may have good near vision, even with a cataract. Your natural lens may still retain some ability to adjust focus(accommodate) or you may be naturally able to see up close, while your IOL implant will allow you to see at specified distances. The IOL you receive determines where and how you see. It is important to remember, just because you have near vision prior to cataract surgery, does not mean you will have it after.

Cataract Surgery & What to Expect

Why Cataract Surgery Makes Sense

What to Expect During Cataract Surgery

1. Before surgery begins

4. A minimally invasive approach

2. During surgery

5. After Surgery

3. Removing and replacing the lens

Recovery Timeline: What to Expect

Things to remember:

Frequently Asked Question

Resources to help navigate your cataract treatment journey

Understanding Cataracts

Cataract Patient Brochure

Understanding Astigmatism

Find a Doctor

References: