Free Patient Guide

What you should know about cataract surgery.

Noticing cloudy vision, glare, or trouble seeing clearly, especially at night? Our free guide explains cataracts, lens implant options, and what to expect before, during, and after surgery, written by the Hoopes Vision surgeons for patients and their families.

PDF · 55 pages

What's Inside

Everything you need to plan with confidence.

The more informed you are, the easier it is to make decisions about cataract surgery, like when to have it, which lens implant to choose, and which surgeon and procedure are right for you.

  1. Foreword
  2. Typical Patient Encounter
  3. The Eye Examination
  4. What Are Cataracts?
  5. Treatment of Cataracts and IOL Options
  6. Laser Cataract Surgery
  7. When to Have Surgery
  8. Paying for Cataract Surgery
  9. The Operation and Postoperative Instructions
  10. Risks and Complications
  11. Follow-Up Care
  12. EyeSurg of Utah
  13. Authors' Comment

Key Topics

Clear answers before you decide.

Cataracts are a common part of aging and one of the most treatable causes of vision loss. Cataract surgery is among the most frequently performed surgical procedures in the United States.

Understand cataracts

Learn how a cloudy natural lens affects the clarity and contrast of your vision, and when it may be time for surgery.

Compare lens implants

Explore the lens implant options available based on your lifestyle and visual goals, plus laser cataract surgery.

Know what to expect

Most cataract procedures are outpatient surgeries. The guide covers costs, the operation, recovery, and follow-up care.

Written by Our Surgeons

Guidance from the team that cares for your eyes.

Our experienced surgeons and care team guide patients through every step, from evaluation to follow-up care. This guide shares what they want every patient and family to know.

  • Phillip C. Hoopes, Jr., MD
  • Majid Moshirfar, MD
  • Benjamin R. Buckner, MD
  • Michael J. Bradley, MD
  • Austin D. Bohner, MD
  • Phillip C. Hoopes, Sr., MD (Retired)