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Procedures

What is cataract surgery?

Medcasts editorial team

Cataract surgery removes the cloudy natural lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Modern technique is phacoemulsification — ultrasound emulsifies the lens, removed through a 2–3mm incision.

IOL choices:

• Monofocal: single focal point, typically distance. Most common. Glasses needed for reading. • Multifocal/trifocal: multiple focal points. Less dependence on glasses but some halos and glare. • Toric: corrects astigmatism. • Light-adjustable lens (LAL): can be fine-tuned post-op via UV light.

Recovery: most patients see improvement within days. Drops continue 4–6 weeks. Final vision settles in 3–6 weeks.

For international travel, cataract surgery is well-suited (single procedure, fast recovery). Cost ~$1,200–2,500 per eye internationally vs $3,500–6,000 US. Premium IOLs add $500–1,500 per eye.

This answer is general information, not medical advice. Your own doctor should confirm what applies to your case.

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