310.275.5533
call or text
310.275.5533
call or text
Home » Ophthalmology Blog » The Essential Guide to Cataract Surgery

The Essential Guide to Cataract Surgery

Published: September 10, 2024

The first thing you should do after receiving the official diagnosis of cataract is to remain calm because they are easily curable. Making the appropriate choices for a location and doctor for treatment is the second and most important step. Here are 8 Important Questions You Should Ask Your Surgeon. By asking any potential surgeon these eight questions, you can feel confident you’re putting your vision in the right hands, and you will soon say goodbye to your cataracts and hello to the clearest vision you have ever experienced.

The Essential Guide to Cataract Surgery

The Essential Guide to Cataract Surgery

8 Critical Questions to Ask Before Selecting Your Surgeon

So, you just found out
you have cataracts…

You may have suspected it, given how much your vision has changed lately. But hearing the official diagnosis made it real. 
 So now, in addition to coming face-to-face with the realities of getting older (ugh), you may be feeling nervous about the whole idea of surgery. After all, your eyesight is precious.

Not to worry!

  • First although cataracts are all but inevitable, they’re also easily treatable. And in most cases, people walk away from cataract surgery with clearer vision than they’ve ever had. We can’t control everything about aging (as hard as we try!), but we can choose how well we see as we get older.
  • Second cataract removal is one of the most common surgeries performed in the U.S.—about three million procedures every year! The surgery is safe and pain-free, recovery is quick, and the results are outstanding.

Of course, having the right
cataract surgeon
makes all the difference

By asking any potential surgeon these eight questions, you can feel confident you’re putting your vision in the right hands.

To save you an extra phone call, we’ve also included our answers. And if you have more questions, please let us know. That’s why we’re here!

1. Why are you recommending cataract treatment?

When it comes to your health—especially something as important as your vision—you should be met with full transparency.

So ask your surgeon exactly why they’re recommending cataract removal—beyond the obvious, “Because you have cataracts.” In most cases, it’s because:

  • Your cataracts are affecting your vision quality
  • Your provider can’t see to the back of your eye to check for other issues
  • You have inflammation as a result of your lens breakdown
  • You’re experiencing glaucoma in addition to your cataracts

Knowing the why behind cataract removal is just as important as the how. That’s why at Benjamin Eye Institute, we listen first. We want to know exactly why you’re here and what symptoms are most bothersome, so you can feel certain you’re making the right decisions for you.

2. What other services do you offer?

Most cataract treatment centers are full of cataract specialists. While that might sound like a good thing, there’s a hidden problem: They may only be looking at your cataracts, which means they’re not considering your whole vision picture.

It’s important to find a provider with a comprehensive view of your vision challenges. That way, you can make confident choices for the long term, rather than wasting time and money on treatments that won’t ultimately serve you well.

At Benjamin Eye Institute, we evaluate your concerns from every angle and offer thoughtful solutions that best protect your vision for life. Our services include cataract care, LASIK, cosmetic treatments, dry eye treatments, glaucoma support, retina services, and general eye health.

3. How does your practice remove cataracts?

Ocular surgeons use one of three methods to remove cataracts:

  • With a blade. It’s impossible to overemphasize this: If your potential surgeon offers blade extractions, they’re taking unnecessary risks. This “technology” is outdated, painful, and requires significant recovery time.
  • With ultrasonic waves. Many providers use phacoemulsification, a type of ultrasound, to break up the cataract for removal. The problem is the waves don’t just travel to the affected lens. They continue throughout the rest of the eye and can create collateral damage.
  • With a laser. Laser cataract removal is precise, computer-guided (so the outcome doesn’t rest on how steady the surgeon’s hand is), and painless. The results are immediate, and you can return to light activity right away.

We use only industry-leading laser technology. It’s exceptionally precise, allowing exact measurements, targeted treatment, and optimal positioning for your replacement lens. You’ll enjoy consistent, predictable, fast, and comfortable results.

4. What are my lens options?

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) replace the affected lens after extraction. Choosing the right lens for your day-to-day life can mean the difference between better and best results

  • Everyone needs to see at three distances: near (for reading and writing), mid (for things like working at the computer and cooking), and far (for driving and watching TV, for example).
  • A monofocal lens implant offers clear vision at only one of those three distances. If you choose an IOL designed for distance, you’ll be able to drive without glasses or contacts—but you’ll still need corrective lenses for near- and mid-vision activities.
  • Multifocal lenses offer clear vision at both near and far distances, but mid-vision remains blurry.
  • Extended depth-of-focus lenses provide a continuous, full range of vision. They also correct astigmatism.

When it comes to IOLs, there’s truly no one “right” answer for everyone. We’ll help you weigh your options and guide you to a decision that fits your lifestyle, visual demands, hobbies, and overall health.

5. What will my vision be like afterward?

Your ocular surgeon should be able to restore and improve the quality of your vision. In fact, after your procedure, your vision should be better than it was long before you got cataracts. That’s because the replacement lens can be shaped to meet your unique vision needs

Here’s a related—and even more important—question to ask: What if I’m not happy with the results?

In very few cases, cataract removal causes a slight change in eyesight. When this happens many ophthalmologists will offer a LASIK procedure. But they’ll charge you an additional—and significant—fee.

We leverage specialized technology that adjusts your lens in real-time during surgery, shaping and positioning it perfectly. And your results are guaranteed. If your vision needs to be tweaked following your procedure, Dr. Benjamin will perfect it with LASIK and/or treat astigmatism free of charge.

6. Where do you operate?

Most cataract procedures occur in hospitals or outpatient surgery centers. That means your ophthalmologist is walking into someone else’s environment and using someone else’s technology and equipment. Not only are those added costs passed on to you, but also there’s no guarantee the equipment is well-maintained.

Benjamin Eye Institute operates our own in-house surgical suite. This allows us to control everything. We own our equipment, and we have it fine-tuned to our uncompromising specifications. Advanced climate control and state-of-the-art filtration systems protect the precision of our lasers and the cleanliness of our space.

7. What if there are complications?

Complications during cataract surgery are quite rare and most often result from a crooked lens implant. But regardless of how infrequently complications occur, your surgeon should be prepared for them. When it comes to your eyesight, there’s no room for do-overs.

Dr. Benjamin is one of only a handful of ophthalmologists in California who’s capable of navigating cataract surgery complications.

In fact, other surgeons send their own patients to him to repair ineffective surgeries. But again: Not to worry. Most complications can be avoided simply by following the detailed post-op instructions we provide.

8. How much will it cost?

Your vision is priceless, so cost should be the last thing you consider. Still, we recognize the price of cataract surgery can feel daunting. The great news is cataract procedures are considered medically necessary, which means insurance typically covers a large portion of the expense.

Regardless, be sure to ask your surgeon for a written breakdown of all charges—not just their own (which is what some providers will do), but also the facility’s charges, the cost of the lenses themselves, and so on.

Take back your vision.

Don’t let life pass you by in blur! One safe surgery can open your eyes to the crisp, colorful world you've been missing. Ready to take your next step?

  • Schedule your free consultation. Call or text 310.275.5533, or take advantage of Breeze, our convenient, online scheduling tool.
  • Get personalized care. We’ll answer all your questions, offer recommendations based on your one-of-a-kind situation, and support you through the entire process.
  • See the world through clear eyes. With cataracts out of your way, you're free to enjoy life in all its vibrant beauty!

Say goodbye to your cataracts and hello to the best vision you’ve ever had.

Back

SEE WHAT OURPATIENTS HAVE TO SAY

Posted on Google Google
Jim B profile picture
Jim B
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Everyone is always pleasant and kind and attentive. Focused and on schedule.

Owner's reply
Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Jim! We're thrilled to hear you had a great experience from start to finish. Your recommendation means a lot to us! We look forward to serving you again in the future.
Posted on Google Google
Nick Ben-Meir profile picture
Nick Ben-Meir
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Efficient service, and Dr Benjamin ahead of the curve, as always

Owner's reply
Thank you for your 5-star review, Nick!
Posted on Google Google
sharon piehl profile picture
sharon piehl
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Everyone was very kind and I felt comfortable being there for the first time.

Owner's reply
Dear Sharon, Thank you so much for your kind review. We’re so glad to hear that you felt comfortable and well cared for during your first visit. We truly appreciate you choosing Benjamin Eye Institute and look forward to seeing you again. The Benjamin Eye Institute Team
Posted on Google Google
Luba Lubov profile picture
Luba Lubov
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great experience and I recommend this eye doctor.

Owner's reply
Thank you, Luba, for your very kind words! Looking forward to seeing you soon at Benjamin Eye Institute!
Posted on Google Google
Peter Trivelas profile picture
Peter Trivelas
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Profesional, skilled, personal, friendly.

Owner's reply
Thank you so much, Peter! Your kind words mean a great deal to us!
Posted on Google Google
Marjorie Dick Stuart profile picture
Marjorie Dick Stuart
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Always the best! Beautiful office, beautiful , helpful staff, amazing customer service, all the best equipment, and the best doctor. They will take good care of you!

Owner's reply
Thank you so much, Marjorie! Your kind words mean a great deal to Dr. Benjamin and our entire team! We truly appreciate your trust!

Related Articles

IOL Exchange Surgery: When a Lens Implant Needs to Be Removed and Replaced

IOL Exchange Surgery: When a Lens Implant Needs to Be Removed and Replaced

May 28, 2026

An IOL exchange is a specialized procedure used to remove and replace a previous lens implant when the original IOL no longer provides the best possible vision or when a different lens may better support the patient’s needs.

more
Cataract Surgery with OMNI MIGS: restoring vision while protecting eye health

Cataract Surgery with OMNI MIGS: restoring vision while protecting eye health

January 29, 2026

Cataract surgery today is no longer just about removing a cloudy lens—it’s about improving overall eye health and long-term visual outcomes. For patients who have both cataracts and glaucoma (or elevated eye pressure), modern ophthalmology now offers a powerful combined solution: cataract surgery with OMNI® minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).

more
Cataract Surgery: Myths vs. Facts

Cataract Surgery: Myths vs. Facts

May 14, 2025

Cataracts are a common vision concern, yet misinformation still makes many people hesitant about seeking treatment. At Benjamin Eye Institute, we're here to clear the confusion and ensure you have the facts about cataract surgery.

more
The Ultimate Vision Transformation: From ICL to LASIK to Light Adjustable Lens!

The Ultimate Vision Transformation: From ICL to LASIK to Light Adjustable Lens!

February 20, 2025

Meet Ronnie, a longtime friend and patient of Dr. Arthur Benjamin, who has been on an incredible vision correction journey! From wearing rigid gas permeable contact lenses and being severely nearsighted (-16 to -17 prescription) to undergoing Intraocular Phakic Contact Lens (ICL) implantation, LASIK, and now Cataract Surgery—his case is a true eye care success story!

more
See the Difference: How ALLY® Is Changing Cataract Surgery

See the Difference: How ALLY® Is Changing Cataract Surgery

January 31, 2025

Dr. Arthur Benjamin is one of the first surgeons in Los Angeles to offer custom laser cataract surgery with the revolutionary ALLY® Adaptive Cataract Treatment System. This cutting-edge technology combines advanced imaging with optimized femtosecond laser precision, allowing the entire procedure to be performed in a single, sterile setting—enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and patient comfort.

more
Cataract Surgery: What You Need to Know

Cataract Surgery: What You Need to Know

January 30, 2025

Are you experiencing blurry vision, increased sensitivity to light, or trouble seeing at night? These could be signs of cataracts—a common age-related condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Fortunately, cataract surgery is a safe, effective, and life-changing procedure that restores clear vision and enhances your quality of life.

more
Introducing the Bausch and Lomb Aspire IOL: A New Standard in Vision Clarity

Introducing the Bausch and Lomb Aspire IOL: A New Standard in Vision Clarity

June 12, 2024

At the Benjamin Eye Institute, we are thrilled to introduce the latest innovation in intraocular lenses (IOLs) from Bausch and Lomb – the Aspire non-diffractive extended depth of focus IOL. Available in both Toric and Spherical versions, the Aspire IOL offers an exceptional option for patients who dream of reducing their dependence on glasses for both near and far vision.

more
Premium Cataract Surgery: Non-Diffractive EDOF IOL's at Benjamin Eye Institute

Premium Cataract Surgery: Non-Diffractive EDOF IOL’s at Benjamin Eye Institute

May 14, 2024

We are proud to offer our patients the latest in premium cataract surgery with non-diffractive EDOF IOL’s. Our experienced surgeons will work with you to determine the best lens option for your needs and provide you with the best possible outcome.

more

SCHEDULE YOURCONSULTATION TODAY!