Cataract surgery is a medical operation that replaces a clouded or opaque natural lens (cataract) in the eye with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The operation is intended to improve vision and reduce visual abnormalities caused by cataracts.

Cataract surgery is not a painful procedure. The procedure is performed with local anesthesia. The eye is numbed and the procedure is performed while the patient is awake, but the patient does not feel anything and has a very comfortable procedure. Mild sedation may also be used for some patients to relax.

LASIK surgery is a refractive eye surgery procedure that uses a laser to correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It reshapes the cornea to improve the way light enters the eye, resulting in clearer vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.

LASIK is not suitable for everyone. Factors such as age, eye health, prescription stability, and certain medical conditions may affect eligibility. An initial consultation with an eye doctor is necessary to evaluate your candidacy for LASIK and determine the most appropriate treatment option for your vision needs.

Cataract surgery removes a cloudy lens caused by cataracts, while refractive lens exchange (RLE) replaces a healthy lens to reduce dependence on glasses or contacts. Both procedures involve replacing the natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL) to correct vision. Premium IOLs used in RLE can provide multifocal vision, reducing the need for glasses. Cataract surgery improves vision affected by cataracts, while RLE enhances vision and decreases reliance on corrective eyewear.

The actual LASIK procedure usually takes around 10-15 minutes per eye. However, you should plan to spend a few hours at the eye clinic for pre-operative evaluations, preparation, and post-operative instructions.

The cost of the procedure can vary depending on each patient’s specific condition(s), but the final quotes are usually determined during the initial consultation with the patient.