Cataracts

Cataract Surgery

What is Cataract Surgery?

Cataracts Treatment

Cataract Surgery is the removal of the natural lens of the eye (also called “crystalline lens”) that has developed an opacification, which is referred to as a cataract. Following surgical removal of the natural lens, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) implant is permanently inserted (eye surgeons say that the lens is “implanted”).

The surgical method that is most commonly used to remove cataracts in the United States is called Phacoemulsification (phaco). In phaco, the surgeon uses an ultrasonic needle to break up and liquefy (emulsify) the cataract so it can be removed through a very small incision. Earlier cataract surgery methods removed the lens in one piece. This required a larger incision and meant a longer healing time for patients. Breaking the lens up and removing it in sections allows surgeons to reduce the incision size significantly (from one-half inch to one-eighth of an inch) and allows patients to resume normal activities quickly.

intraocular lens compared to the size of a dime

Intraocular Lens (IOL)

Just as a camera cannot take a clear picture without a lens, the human eye cannot see clearly without a lens. Therefore, after the natural lens is removed, a foldable intraocular lens (IOL) implant is placed permanently inside the eye to help focus light onto the retina, or the “film” of the eye, to allow a much clearer image than without a lens implant. Unlike contact lenses, which must be removed, cleaned, and reinserted, the IOL remains in the eye after surgery. IOL implants have been used for almost 30 years and are very safe and effective.

Among the most worrisome complications following cataract surgery are infection (endophthalmitis) and retinal detachment. Fortunately, these complications are rare. Vision returns quickly following cataract surgery and one can resume normal activities within a short period of time.

What patients say about

Boulder Eye Surgeons

97% of our patients would refer friends and family to us.

My first eye exam at Boulder Eye Surgeons was very thorough and informative. The technician that gave the eye exam was very friendly and explained exactly what was going on behind these blue peepers regarding my far sightedness! Dr. Keller is my favorite eye doctor and I would recommend him for any serious eye difficulty.

Short wait to be seen. Everyone makes you feel comfortable. Working with Chris was great. Dr. Cuevas explains things in easy to understand terms and is never condescending. He makes you feel secure in his knowledge. Dr. Cuevas is my go-to guy for eye problems.

Boulder Eye Surgeons have made it easy to visit safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. My appointment was on-time and efficiently executed. This is an outstanding ophthalmology office.

I wouldn’t trust my eyes to anyone other than Boulder Eye Surgeons. THE BEST!!!

Always professional - always 'top notch'. Dr. Keller and the staff are always respectful and kind. I feel that Dr. Keller is an excellent eye surgeon that I can trust.

Pre and post cataract surgery followup with BES staff was excellent. All staff members were very knowledgeable and efficient as I called several times with questions. Surgery with Dr. Cuevas was excellent and I am very happy so far with results. Dr. Cuevas was clear and transparent with answers to my post-surgery questions and spent substantial time with me pre-surgery to make sure we came up with the best solution to meet my athletic vision requirements. I highly recommend Boulder Eye Surgeons.

The professionalism of the entire staff is impressive. Dr. Nichols spent adequate time with me explaining everything thoroughly. My daughter came with me and he took the time to address her concerns and answer her questions. The Optical department is just as 5 star as the rest of the practice. I am so grateful to these people for how they are addressing my problems with my eyes which involve a complex medical condition.

Our Doctors

Boulder Eye Surgeons has been providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care since 1997. We help patients of all ages in Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, Louisville, and throughout Colorado to achieve and maintain clear vision. Our goal is to provide professional, compassionate and customized eye care to every patient, every time. We strive to understand your needs and exceed your expectations.

Boulder Eye Surgeons- Arapahoe

Boulder Eye Surgeons/Panorama LASIK

Boulder Eye Surgeons - Erie

COVID-19 Information

Cataracts

Cataract Surgery

What is Cataract Surgery?

Cataracts Treatment

Intraocular Lens (IOL)

What patients say about

Boulder Eye Surgeons

Boulder Eye Surgeons

Our Doctors

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(303) 444-3000

(303) 499-2020

(720) 526-0010

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