Are you experiencing cloudy vision with age? Have you been told you have cataracts, but are unsure if you are ready for surgery? Dr. Jordan Stanley would be happy to see you and discuss your options! Our “no pressure” consultation will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of what options are best for you, regardless of when you choose to proceed with treatment.

Dr. Jordan Stanley

Dr. Stanley is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist. As the founder of PureSight Surgical in Marietta, GA, Dr. Stanley is committed to offering excellence in care for cataract surgery, ICL refractive surgery, glaucoma management, and medical eye exams with transparent fee-for-service pricing available for those without insurance. He is also in network with Medicare and many private insurance plans including Blue Cross and United.

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What are cataracts?

Cataracts are the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, a very common condition as we age. This clouding leads to blurry and dull vision.

Cataracts are a common cause of vision impairment, especially as we age. Over 15% of the population will develop cataracts by the age of 64, which rises to over 68% by age 80, making this one of the most common eye ailments. 

Cataract surgery replaces the clouded lens, allowing you to see clearly and in detail. Below, we explain what cataract surgery entails, including the signs that it’s time to consider the surgery, how the procedure itself works, and what to expect during recovery.

What is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery removes the cataract, replaces it with a clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL) in several steps:

  1. You are given a relaxing medication to relieve any anxiety about the procedure as well as numbing eye drops so that you will not feel pain during the surgery.
  2. Dr. Stanley uses a specialized microscope to visualize and create microscopic incisions in the front, clear window of the eye to gain access to the clouded lens.
  3. Using specialized instruments and ultrasonic energy, the clouded lens is gently fragmented and removed. 
  4. The artificial lens is inserted through the same incision. 

The surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day. Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful procedures performed in the field of ophthalmology, with over 99% of patients experiencing no complications, according to recent Cleveland Clinic data. 

Note that, if both eyes have cataracts, you will likely want to undergo surgery on one eye at a time so that both eyes are not healing at once. We typically schedule the second surgery between 1 and 6 weeks after the first.

Symptoms & Early Signs of Cataracts

Here are some of the early signs and symptoms of cataracts:

  • Blurry vision, making images and objects appear cloudy or dim
  • Difficulty seeing at night or in low-light conditions, such as when you are driving at night
  • Sensitivity to light and glare, i.e. discomfort in bright light or when facing direct sunlight, or seeing halos around lights
  • Colors starting to appear faded, yellowed, or less vibrant
  • Frequent changes in prescription for glasses or contact lenses

While you may choose to delay surgery when your symptoms are still mild, understand that cataracts do worsen over time. Talk with your optometrist or schedule a consultation with Marietta ophthalmologist Dr. Stanley for an evaluation and to discuss your options at any point in time, even when you’re not ready for surgery.

PureSight Surgical Practice Model
Our Practice Model

At PureSight Surgical, we provide transparent pricing and personalized care to save you both time and money. For patients who are un- or under-insured, this empowers you to understand what your care costs and avoid unexpected fees and charges.

How it works

Dr. Jordan Stanley is a VA Community Care Network Cataract Surgeon in Marietta

Dr. Stanley is committed to serving our veterans, and in addition to providing care part-time at the Atlanta VA, he participates in the Veteran Community Care Network to offer services such as cataract surgery at PureSight Surgical on a referral basis. If you are a veteran and require cataract surgery, and the VA is unable to perform the surgery in a timely manner, you may be referred to Dr. Stanley for care.

Why do people undergo cataract surgery?

People opt for cataract surgery to address the impaired vision caused by the clouding of the eye’s natural lens. The primary goal is to improve vision blurred by cataracts, restoring visual clarity and quality of life.

This procedure is not only about enhancing vision; it’s also a preventive measure against blindness caused by untreated cataracts.

Timely treatment is crucial, as cataracts can lead to a progressive loss of vision, making early intervention essential for preserving sight and independence. Plus, the procedure may be more extensive and require a longer recovery period if you wait too long and the lens becomes hardened and dense.

How is cataract surgery performed?

Cataract surgery removes the clouded lens, replacing it with a clear, artificial one. It is an outpatient procedure typically requiring only local anesthesia.

Phacoemulsification

The most common method, phacoemulsification, involves making a small incision through which an ultrasound device breaks up the cloudy lens, allowing it to be safely removed. Ultrasound waves break up the cloudy lens into microscopic fragments, which are then removed. This method is favored for its ability to allow for a smaller incision, which reduces recovery time.

Extracapsular Cataract Extraction

For more advanced cataracts, extracapsular cataract extraction may be employed, where the lens is removed in one piece. Extracapsular cataract extraction is for advanced cataracts, where the lens has become too dense to be effectively fragmented by ultrasound. In this procedure, the cloudy lens is removed in one complete piece through a larger incision.

The final step in both methods involves the insertion of an intraocular lens (IOL) that is designed to restore clear vision. 

Key Benefits
  • Restores clear vision
  • Helps with driving at night
  • Stops the progression of cataracts
Glossary

American Academy of Ophthalmology: A professional organization in the United States that provides guidelines and education on eye health.

Artificial Lens (Intraocular Lens – IOL): An artificial lens implanted into the eye during cataract surgery to replace the clouded natural lens. Different types include monofocal lenses, multifocal IOLs, toric IOLs, and light-adjustable IOLs.

Blurry Vision: A common symptom of cataracts where vision becomes unfocused or hazy, prompting people to seek treatment.

Capsule Opacification (Posterior Capsule Opacification): A potential complication after surgery where the lens capsule becomes cloudy, affecting clear vision. Treated with a laser capsulotomy.

Capsulotomy: A laser procedure used to treat posterior capsule opacification by creating an opening in the cloudy lens capsule to restore clear vision.

Cataract: A condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to vision loss and blurry vision. Cataracts are common in older adults but can also be congenital.

Cataract Surgery Recovery: The period after surgery when the eye heals, and vision improves. Most people experience better vision within a few days to a few weeks.

Clear Vision: The goal of surgery is to restore clear vision by removing the cataract and implanting an artificial lens.

Complications: Potential risks associated with surgery.

Congenital Cataracts: Cataracts present at birth, which may require early surgical intervention to prevent vision problems.

Contact Lenses: An alternative to glasses that some patients may use after surgery, depending on their vision needs.

Diabetic Retinopathy: An eye condition affecting people with diabetes, which can impact vision outcomes.

Distance Vision: The ability to see objects clearly that are far away. Certain IOLs implanted during surgery can improve distance vision.

Double Vision: Seeing two images of a single object, which can be a symptom of cataracts or other eye health issues.

Extracapsular Cataract Extraction: A type of cataract surgery where the cloudy lens is removed in one piece through a larger incision, and an artificial lens is implanted.

Eye Surgeon (Ophthalmologist): A medical professional specializing in eye and vision care, including diagnosing cataracts and performing surgery.

Eye Drops: Medications administered in liquid form to the eye before and after surgery to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.

Farsightedness (Hyperopia): A condition where distant objects are seen more clearly than close ones; certain IOLs can correct this.

Glasses (Reading Glasses): Eyewear that may still be needed after cataract surgery, especially for reading, depending on the type of IOL implanted.

Healthcare Provider: A professional such as an ophthalmologist who performs cataract surgery and manages postoperative care.

Home Care: Instructions provided to patients for recovery at home after cataract surgery, including using prescribed eye drops and limiting certain activities.

Incision: A small cut made in the eye during cataract surgery to remove the cloudy lens and insert the artificial lens.

Laser: Used in certain types of cataract surgeries (laser cataract surgery) and in procedures like laser capsulotomy to treat capsule opacification.

Lens: The natural part of the eye that focuses light onto the retina; becomes cloudy with cataract formation.

Lens Capsule: The transparent layer of tissue surrounding the eye’s lens; part of it is preserved during surgery to hold the artificial lens.

Lens Implant: Another term for the artificial intraocular lens inserted during cataract surgery.

Lens Replacement Surgery: Another term for cataract surgery involving the replacement of the clouded natural lens with an artificial one.

Macular Degeneration: An age-related eye condition affecting central vision; important to assess before cataract surgery.

Monofocal Lenses: A type of IOL that provides clear vision at one distance (near or far), often requiring glasses for other distances.

Multifocal IOLs: Artificial lenses that provide clear vision at multiple distances, reducing dependence on glasses after surgery.

Natural Lens: The eye’s original lens that becomes cloudy due to cataracts and is replaced during surgery.

Outpatient Procedure: Procedure allowing patients to go home the same day.

Phaco (Phacoemulsification): The most common cataract surgery technique using an ultrasound probe to break up and remove the cloudy lens.

Presbyopia: Age-related difficulty in focusing on close objects; certain multifocal or accommodating IOLs can address this.

Reading Glasses: Glasses that may be needed for close work after cataract surgery, depending on the IOL used.

Recovery Time: The healing period after cataract surgery, typically involving days to weeks for full visual improvement.

Small Incision Cataract Surgery: Modern surgical techniques that use smaller incisions for quicker recovery and reduced complications.

Surgeon (Eye Surgeon): An ophthalmologist specialized in performing eye surgeries like cataract removal.

Toric IOLs: Specialized artificial lenses designed to correct astigmatism during cataract surgery.

Ultrasound: Technology used in phacoemulsification to break up the cloudy lens for removal.

Ultrasound Probe: An instrument emitting ultrasound waves during phacoemulsification.

Cataract Surgery Cost in Marietta, GA

Cataract surgery in Marietta, GA with Dr. Jordan Stanley costs $3,000 per eye, which includes operating room fees, anesthesia, and surgeon’s fees. We also accept Medicare and many private insurance plans.

Risks

While cataract surgery has a high rate of success and is considered safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries certain risks that Dr. Stanley will discuss with you in your pre-surgical consultation. These include inflammation, changes in eye pressure, and in rare cases, infection or retinal detachment. There’s also the possibility of lens dislocation, where the artificial lens moves from its intended position, as well as visual disturbances such as glare and halos around lights, particularly at night. 

With Dr. Stanley’s advanced surgical techniques, patients who follow post-operative care instructions are unlikely to experience complications. Cataract surgery is considered safe and effective, and is very commonly performed. In fact, cataract surgery is the most commonly performed procedure at ambulatory (or outpatient) surgical centers in the United States.

Recovery

You will return home the same day of the surgery with instructions to use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. The recovery process after cataract surgery is generally quick and straightforward, but it is critical to follow Dr. Stanley’s post-op instructions to support your body’s healing process. 

Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few weeks to allow the eye to heal properly. You will also want to protect your eyes as much as possible: wear sunglasses (and seek shade) when outdoors, and avoid getting soap or water in your eyes when showering or washing your face. Talk with Dr. Stanley before you resume other activities that can affect the eyes, like swimming underwater or wearing eye makeup.

You will see Dr. Stanley for follow-up appointments to monitor your healing process and assess how your vision is improving. Most patients experience a significant improvement in vision within a few days, although it may take several weeks for vision to stabilize completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

You may want to schedule a consultation with an ophthalmologist if glasses or contact lenses no longer improve your vision and you notice increased glare, blurred vision, or difficulty seeing at night. Many people decide it’s time for cataract surgery when their vision impairs daily activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces. 

The decision to undergo the procedure should be made after an exam with an ophthalmologist. Dr. Stanley will perform an eye exam and talk with you about your specific symptoms to help you decide the right time for surgery.

Cataract surgery is typically a one-time procedure. Once the cataract is removed, it cannot return. 

However, a condition known as posterior capsule opacification (PCO) can sometimes occur months or years after cataract surgery. This happens when the lens capsule, which holds the artificial lens in place, becomes cloudy. If this occurs, a simple laser procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy can restore clear vision.

There is no alternative to traditional cataract surgery with the same rate of effectiveness. However, if your cataracts are mild, you may choose to delay surgery and manage the effects of your cataracts, i.e. by using stronger eyeglasses or bifocals to improve vision; using magnifying lenses for close work; and installing brighter lighting at home and work.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during cataract surgery. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia (eye drops) to numb the eye, and you may feel some pressure, but no pain.

The surgery itself usually takes about 15 – 30 minutes for one eye. However, the entire process, including preoperative preparation and postoperative observation, can take a few hours.

Yes, you will be awake, but your eye will be numbed, and you may be given a mild sedative to help you relax.

There are different types of intraocular lenses (IOLs), including:

  • Monofocal IOLs: Provide clear vision at one distance (near, intermediate, or far).
  • Multifocal or trifocal IOLs: Provide clear vision at multiple distances.
  • Toric IOLs: Minimizes astigmatism to achieve the best possible vision with less dependence on glasses for distance vision.

In your consultation, Dr. Stanley will sit down with you to learn about your needs and help you choose the best solution for your eyes. Note: Not all patients are candidates for every lens implant. Dr. Stanley will review a variety of test results to provide guidance on the best lens options for you.

Most people can resume normal activities within a few days, with full recovery taking about 4–6 weeks. 

You may need glasses; it depends on the type of IOL you choose. Some patients, especially those with monofocal lenses, may still need glasses for reading or distance vision. Multifocal lenses can reduce the need for glasses at multiple distances.

You should arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery, as your vision may be blurry initially. Most patients can resume driving within a few days to a week, depending on your recovery and Dr. Stanley’s advice in your post-op visits.

Typically, cataract surgery is done on one eye at a time. The second eye is usually operated on between 1 and 6 weeks later to allow the first eye to heal.

References

Cataract Tables. National Eye Institute.

Davis G. The Evolution of Cataract Surgery. Mo Med. 2016 Jan-Feb;113(1):58-62. PMID: 27039493.

Goel R, Shah S, Malik KPS, Sontakke R, Golhait P, Gaonker T. Complications of manual small-incision cataract surgery. Indian J Ophthalmol. 2022 Nov;70(11):3803-3811. doi: 10.4103/ijo.IJO_1812_22.

Bernhisel A, Pettey J. Manual small incision cataract surgery. Curr Opin Ophthalmol. 2020 Jan;31(1):74-79. doi: 10.1097/ICU.0000000000000624. 

Roberts HW, Day AC, O’Brart DP. Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery: A review. Eur J Ophthalmol. 2020 May;30(3):417-429. doi: 10.1177/1120672119893291. 

Liu YC, Wilkins M, Kim T, Malyugin B, Mehta JS. Cataracts. Lancet. 2017 Aug 5;390(10094):600-612. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(17)30544-5. 

Sabharwal J, Garg AK, Ramulu PY. How much does cataract surgery contribute to intraocular pressure lowering? Curr Opin Ophthalmol. 2024 Mar 1;35(2):147-154. doi: 10.1097/ICU.0000000000001021. 

Sharma B, Abell RG, Arora T, Antony T, Vajpayee RB. Techniques of anterior capsulotomy in cataract surgery. Indian J Ophthalmol. 2019 Apr;67(4):450-460. doi: 10.4103/ijo.IJO_1728_18. 

Rosen ES. Cataract surgery evolution. J Cataract Refract Surg. 2010 Oct;36(10):1625-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrs.2010.08.004. 

Wormald RP, Foster A. Cataract surgery. Br J Ophthalmol. 2004 May;88(5):601-2. doi: 10.1136/bjo.2003.032623.

Kaur S, Kumari K, Gupta PC, Sukhija J. Pharmacological management of intra-operative miosis during cataract surgery. Indian J Ophthalmol. 2023 Jul;71(7):2656-2661. doi: 10.4103/IJO.IJO_3384_22. 

Dr. Jordan Stanley offers top-quality care with transparent pricing

PureSight Surgical in Marietta, GA is an ophthalmology practice that provides transparent pricing and offers cataract surgery on a fee-for-service basis, if desired. This approach allows you to be fully informed about the cost of your treatment upfront, eliminating any surprises and making healthcare decisions more straightforward—especially if you are under-insured or uninsured. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Stanley by calling (770) 230-2020.

Areas Served:

  • Marietta
  • Kennesaw
  • Acworth
  • Dallas
  • Woodstock
  • Smyrna
Portrait of Dr. Jordan Stanley

Medically reviewed by Dr. Jordan Stanley — Updated on Dec 9, 2024