Cataract Procedure What are cataracts? A Cataract is caused when the natural lens becomes cloudy and interferes with the vision. There are many types of cataract, the most common is the one associated with aging. In fact 50% of people over age 60 have some cataract formation. However, most patients choose to ignore their cataracts and leave them untreated. When untreated cataracts diminish the ability to see clearly, and eventually complete vision loss. How are they treated? Cataracts are using a two step procedure. First, an ultrasonic instrument is used to break up and gently remove the existing cloudy (cataract) lens in the eye. Next, the removed lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), the lens is rotated into place and the soft arms gently unfold to hold it into place. The entire procedure takes approximately 20 minutes and is performed as an out-patient procedure. Our approach As specialist in Vision Correction, we have performed over 20,000 cataract procedures. Laser Eye Institute founder, Dr. Haddad served as the president of the Michigan Refractive Society, and lectured nationally on refractive vision correction. With Dr. Haddad´s surgical skill and vast knowledge most of his patients are able to see without the need for glasses after the cataract procedure. In addition to lecturing nationally on cataracts, Dr. Haddad has an ongoing training course for other doctors called Treatment of Astigmatism in the Cataract Patient. Recent advancements in cataracts Up until recently, most patients would require some form of reading glasses after cataract surgery. This was a physical limitation of the implanted lens being use (monofocal lens); the lens only focused on distance objects and was unable to change focus to objects in your near vision. Recent advancements in lens technology have created a class of premium lenses that allow you to focus on both near, intermediate and distance objects. After selecting a premium lens (IOL) most patients do not require reading or distance glasses after cataract surgery. Read more about our Premium Lens offerings Milestones 1989: Dr Haddad was the second doctor in Michigan to use small incision cataract surgery with foldable lens 1992: Topical anesthesia (No shot/injection) 1993: No stitch cataract 1999: Multifocal lenses. Bifocal implants allowing our patients to see near and far simultaneously 2002: Toric Staar implant for astigmatism 2006: Alcon Toric lens for superior treatment of astigmatism. Related Pages About The Laser Eye Institute Patient Testimonials