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Cataract Surgery services offered in Walnut Creek, CA
Cataract Surgery is a well-established procedure that improves vision by removing the eye's cloudy natural lens. At Diablo Eye Associates, we offer detailed cataract evaluations, discussion of lens options, outpatient surgical care, and follow-up visits to monitor recovery. Our goal is to provide clear information and steady support so patients know what to expect at every step. Schedule a cataract consultation by calling our office or requesting an appointment online.
Cataract Surgery Q & A
What is cataract surgery?
Cataract Surgery is a common outpatient surgical procedure to remove the eye's natural lens when it has become cloudy due to a cataract. In this procedure, the cloudy lens is carefully removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL). This allows light to properly focus inside the eye, improving visual clarity. Cataract surgery is typically recommended when vision changes begin to interfere with daily activities such as reading, driving, or playing golf.
To help you better understand the procedure and what to expect, we invite you to watch the catarct surgery video available on this page. It provides a clear overview of the process, recovery, and common questions patients have before surgery.
Who is a candidate for cataract surgery?
Cataract Surgery is generally recommended when cataracts begin to interfere with vision and affect daily activities. The decision to proceed with surgery is based on how much the cataract impacts visual function and quality of life. In some cases, cataract removal is also advised to improve visualization or management of other eye conditions, including retinal disease or glaucoma. During your consultation, your ophthalmologist will evaluate your eye health and discuss whether cataract surgery is appropriate for you.
What happens during a cataract surgery consultation?
During your cataract surgery consultation, your ophthalmologist will perform a complete eye exam and take measurements of your eye to calculate the appropriate focusing power for the intraocular lens (IOL). Your medical and eye health history will be carefully reviewed to identify any conditions that may affect surgical planning or recovery. Your provider will answer any questions you have, review lens options available to you, and explain what to expect from surgery. In some cases, a separate pre-operative visit is scheduled for additional measurements and final lens selection.
What does cataract surgery involve?
Cataract surgery is performed as an oupatient procedure at a local ambulatory surgery center (ASC). Before surgery, the eye is numbed with anesthetic drops, and mild sedation is provided to keep you comfortable. Because sedation is used, patients must arrange for a driver to take them to and from the surgery center.
During the procedure, a small opening is created to remove the cloudy natural lens and replace it with a clear intraocular lens (IOL). The incision typically closes without stitches. After surgery, you return home the same day.
Patients are asked to carefully review the post-operative sheet provided to them at their pre-op appointment, which includes important eye drop schedules, activity guidance, and recovery information.
What is recovery like after cataract surgery?
Most patients notice vision improvement within the first few days after surgery, although vision may continue to stabilize over several weeks. It is common to experience mild irritation, light sensitivity, or fluctuating vision early in recovery.
Post-operative eyedrops are used for several weeks to support healing and reduce inflammation, and most patients complete their drop regimen at about four weeks. Patients typically return for one to two follow-up visits to monitor healing and visual progress.
Activity restrictions are minimal, and many patients resume normal daily activities shortly after surgery. The educational video on this page provides a helpful overview of what to expect during recovery.