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FAQ's: Cataract Surgery

Doctors with a caring eye

Frequently Asked Questions

Most frequent questions and answers

Can cataracts come back?

Because the natural lens has been removed, cataracts cannot come back. Occasionally a film can form on the lens which can be treated with an outpatient laser procedure, this is called a secondary cataract but is different from a true cataract.

Will I be awake for surgery?

Yes, patients are given a conscious sedation meaning you will be relaxed but awake.

Can both eyes be done at the same time?

This is not recommended as vision can take several weeks to stabilize during healing and vision can be slightly compromised. Also, one eye at a time can help reduce the occurrence of post operative complications.

Will I have stitches or sutures?

Stitches or sutures are generally not used, a small incision is placed and the eye will self-seal the wound.

Are there any eye drops or supplements I can take to prevent or dissolve cataracts?

Most cataracts are a result of the aging process of the natural lens in your eye, there is no evidence to support that supplements or eye drops help to reduce the occurrence of cataracts or dissolve them.

Is surgery the only way to get rid of cataracts?

Yes, the dense and cloudy natural lens must be removed and replaced by an implant to recover/improve vision.

If I have cataracts do I need surgery now?

Surgery is only recommended when the cataracts begin to impair your lifestyle and when the risks of surgery are outweighed by the benefits as deemed in consult with your Doctor.

Does cataract surgery get rid of floaters?

No, however, it will improve glare, haloes, and cloudy vision.

Does the natural lens (cataract) need to be replaced?

Yes, without a replacement lens, the eye will not be able to focus light to allow for clear vision.

What are the lenses made of?

Acrylic

Can you feel the lens inside of the eye?

No, but the vision will be different that you are used to and it will likely take a little time to get used to, this varies for every patient.

What if I blink during surgery?

There will be a device used to hold the eye open so you are unable to blink, the eye will be numbed and moisturized frequently for comfort.

Can I drive myself to surgery?

No, you will need a driver the day of surgery due to anesthesia. You are able to use a rideshare service/taxi, however, someone you know must accompany you home.

What if I cough during surgery?

Usually not an issue, we try to minimize this, if this is a concern, discuss with your doctor.

Do I need to stop medications and supplements before surgery?

Depending on what you are taking, a nurse from the surgery center will review your medications and contact you one week prior to surgery to stop any medications that need to be stopped, all others can be continued.

Do I take my usual medications before surgery?

Yes, unless the nurse from the surgery center instructs you otherwise.

Can I go to work after cataract surgery?

Depending on what you do for work you may return after your 1 day post op appointment. Restrictions will be placed on heavy lifting and strenuous activity.

Can I fly after surgery?

Flying is not a concern; however, we request you do not travel out of town within one week of surgery in case additional follow up is needed.

Can I go to the mountains after surgery?

Yes.

When can I use a swimming pool, hot tub, or sauna?

Do not participate in these activities for 3 weeks after surgery.

Will I need medication/drops after surgery?

Yes, your doctor will prescribe you drops for before and after surgery.

Can I have dental work done near the same time as cataract surgery?

Dental work is recommended prior to cataract surgery, if it needs to be done after, please wait at least 1 week from surgery to schedule.

Can previous eye surgery impact the outcome of my cataract surgery?

Yes. Previous eye surgery, especially refractive surgery such as RK, LASIK, and PRK can affect the outcome of surgery, so can pre-existing eye disease. We take great care in your preoperative measurements and exam to avoid this wherever possible and provide the best possible outcome.

How long does cataract surgery take?

The surgery itself only takes a few minutes, however, you will be at the surgery center for 2-2.5 hours from check-in to check-out (pre and post op).

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

Symptoms associated with cataracts are blurry/cloudy vision. Colors can look dull, dim, or faded, trouble seeing at night, trouble with bright lights, glare, halos, difficulty reading up close, decreased contrast sensitivity, and in some cases, depth perception.

Will my night vision improve after cataract surgery?

Yes, cataract surgery will improve night vision, enabling you to drive at night and walk in low light.

Will I need glasses after cataract surgery?

Depending on which lens options are appropriate for your eye, you may or may not need corrective lenses after cataract surgery. Your surgeon will let you know which option(s) are best for you and help you with this decision, based on this decision we  will be able to determine how likely you are to need corrective lenses after surgery.

What are the risks of cataract surgery?

These may include infection, swelling, redness, secondary cataract, the need for additional surgery, in addition to other potential risks that will be reviewed prior to consenting to surgery.

What restrictions will I have after surgery?

No heavy lifting or strenuous/inverted activity- 1 week

Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and pools- 3 weeks

Discuss prescription eye drops with surgeon to determine when you can safely resume them.

Other restrictions may apply on a case by case basis and depending on occupation/hobbies.

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The staff and the doctor I saw for my upcoming cataract surgery was fantastic they were polite courteous and answered every question that I had I'm getting my first cataract surgery done next month

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I recently saw Claire Purser, OD and Kassidy Campton, contac lens technician at Denver Eye Surgeons. They were both professional, knowledgeable and personable. Took time to answer all questions. The entire staff at the office deserve 5 star ratings.

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I want to commend Kayla M. for her care and understanding with patients during check in. She is always cheerful and calm, never rushing anyone. A true professional!

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I've been a patient since it's inception.

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Everyone is so very friendly

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They have taken excellent care of our eyes for years! I am confident they know what they are doing. The appointments are easy to schedule and there are plenty of comfortable chairs to wait for your appointment. The waiting time is brief. We are always satisfied!

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Incredible customer service!!! Everyone was engaging, kind, supportive and professional ~all the way from the front desk, visit, exit. Dr Noguchi was excellent- bedside manner, medical intervention, demeanor. He is a world class physician and a classy gentleman. Thank you all for treating me like family

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Tania was very nice and personable. She answered all my questions. Very very friendly! Dr. Costin was also very personable and good.

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Tania came in to the exam room to perform the pre appointment examination before meeting with Dr. Purser. Tania was very thorough, professional and personable. A very good experience.

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I was so impressed by your staff. One person really went out of her way, Tonia. Very helpful and kind. She has great patient care ethics. Great job team.

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Everyone was wonderful and explained everything very thoroughly, including billing. Both office staff and doctors were great! I had a past retinal detachment and they treated it very seriously.

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Kassidy did a fantastic job fitting me for my contacts. She was very patient and friendly and I am seeing great in my new monovision set up. Thanks Kassidy!

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Adara was a wonderful staff member; thorough, kind, and very pleasant!

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Great experience with Kassidy after cataract surgery for contact lens fitting. She explains everything in layman’s terms that make it easy to understand what I am experiencing very easy to understand. Thank you Kassidy.

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Dr Costin was amazing. She is highly professional, very honest, and would recommend her to anyone. In fact, the entire staff was amazing.

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Dr Crosby, her Tech and her assistant... First Dr Crosby's tech. I was so pleased with her. She did the exam and front end of my appointment. She was very detailed and thorough, as well as kind. The best I have had in many years of exams. Dr Crosby was new for me after my prior Dr left. Much better manner then the prior Dr. She answered all my questions and was very thorough and kind as well. Her assistant was very helpful, and I suspect the employee who helped me with a lost prescription. To conclude, a happy experience!

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Able to see me quickly for an eye infection and staff very friendly including Joanna and Dr Crosby!

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Thank you Kassidy for the contact fitting after cataract surgery. I know the second eye will be just as great a fitting!

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Chi checked me in before I was seen by the doctor. Chi was very nice, pleasant and very patient with me when setting me up with my exams. Chi is very customer service oriented she’s a keeper in my books.

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On the 13th of March 2026 I went in for a problem that had been increasing over time. The doctors assistant was attentive, professional and cheerful. Much appreciated. I was lucky to get Ophthalmologist Jonathan Noguchi, M.D.. He was professional, likeable and was calm during my apprehension. He identified my problem and explained what it was and how he could solve it. This procedure was to remove enflamed and plugged tear ducts and he had to insert a needle in 3 different places on both eyes, and I mean next to the eye to numb these spots. Then he simply removed the inflammation with small scissors. I would recommend this doctor. He was easy to like, knew what he was doing and he got right on it and had me going out the door lickety split..Thanks doc. I look and feel much better!

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I went in for an appointment on Friday. I was greeted by Kayla. She is amazing and very helpful and friendly. Thank you for all your help Kayla💯❗

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As stressful as eye appointments can be. This place eased all my worries! Samantha G at the front desk is the absolute best. She is patient and worked with me to ensure I was seen and taken care of!!! Thank you to your entire team!!

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Chi was very knowledgeable and professional. She should go back to school! Dr. Crosby was amazing as well. I love going to DES and have been going to them for years. Would recommend.

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Samantha G was very friendly and accommodating with the Dr's schedule and got me an appointment that was more convenient for me!!

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Had a routine eye exam with Dr. Crosby and was seen by Manuel beforehand. Both were great; I would highly recommend this office!

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Denver Eye has amazing physicians and staff! Everyone is so attentive and the whole process during the visit was very efficient. I would highly recommend them for your eye care needs.

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Always great

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Dr Purser was great. I've been going here for years, but this is the first time someone went over every part of the eye exam and explained everything that was discovered. Thank you for a breath of fresh air!

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I have been a patient here since 2001& have seen doctors & staff come & go. I have been receiving injections for a retina condition since 2012 & about 15 months ago Brent Deibert became my retina specialist. I am very pleased with his professionalism & the care I am receiving. I am an extremely happy patient & I highly recommend Denver Eye Surgeons.

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I went in to see Dr Deibert for my injection and from the very first interaction with Cindy, her professionalism, empathy, and commitment to help me was outstanding. She went above and beyond to ensure that I received the support, guidance, and resources needed. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively with patients, and the charity demonstrated to me her strong interpersonal and advocacy skills. I knew she cared. In my opinion, what sets her apart from everyone - is the kindness, gentleness, and "REAL" caring. Thank you, Cindy, for making me feel important and showing me that someone does stand up for people like me. and thank you for accepting my hugs of appreciation.

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I have been going to Denver Eye surgeons for many years. They have done a great job of taking care of me and I will continue going to Denver Eye. Greg S

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Kassidy was especially helpful offering lots of practical solutions for my situation and great options to help me find what works best for me. Very professional.

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***UPDATE I received a call from the office manager, Danielle, this morning. She got me taken care of. I was extremely grateful for her help and understanding and for fitting me in with my doctor at a time and date that worked for me. I waited 9 months for an appointment. I got a call a month before it canceling my appointment because my doctor was not going to be in that day. I called to reschedule and they said they would call me back. I got a call the day of my appointment stating I had missed my appointment. I explained what happened and was pretty much told that was not true. I have messages for proof. And my doctor was in that day! My doctor is retiring and now I have to see a new doctor. I come in from out of state to see these doctors because they are the best. Their office people however, are a totally different caliber.

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I've been seeing Dr. Tetrault and Dr. Maus for a few years now to treat my glaucoma. It has always been a 5 star experience from the front desk staff and pleasant waiting room to the staff that does my initial intake and testing for the appointment and then the time with the doctors for more testing and discussion of my status. Both doctors are just tremendously upbeat and I believe genuinely concerned about my eye health. They're actually fun to be around and I feel that I'm getting top expert care, treatment and advice. I've dealt with glaucoma for 40 years and due to moving a lot have had many health care systems and doctors. These two are certainly among the very best of all. Recommend them very highly.

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I had my recent contact lens exam and Kassidy stood out as down-to-earth, genuinely helpful and knowledgeable. Great experience!

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I got my lasik done at D.E.S. about 12 years ago, they did a great job, however my eyes have changed a little due to time so I decided to get them touched up. The price is a great value and I look forward to seeing 20/20 again.

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Not only was the procedure explained in detail, but was very friendly outgoing and answered All my questions without rushing me she never made me feel like she was too busy or that I was not important This doctor is a very good doctor I highly recommend her And this office.

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Had to have a recheck on my contact prescription and Kassidy was super helpful and got me fixed up. She also suggested some eye drops to help when my vision got a little blurry due to eye dryness. Game changer!

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Kassidy helped me to finally get my scleral lenses feeling wonderful! Life changer! I’d been fighting them for a long time, but Kassidy saw the problem and fixed it. I can’t express my gratitude to her. With Keritaconus it’s definitely a challenge and Kassidy definitely deserves a huge thank you!

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Denver Eye Surgeons were able to see me on a late Friday afternoon and on short notice. The Doctors and staff were very helpful and professional. I would highly recommend.

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Tara technician that worked with Dr. Maus today was excellent ! A great addition to the team. Efficient, competent and very pleasant. Also, Cody at the front desk was very nice and helpful. So sad they aren't the same place since bought out.

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I recently visited Denver Eye Surgeons for my annual eye exam, and I was very impressed with how smoothly everything went. From the moment I walked in, the staff was friendly, professional, and efficient. The entire office was spotless and well-organized, which immediately made me feel comfortable and confident in their care. The waiting area was clean and bright, and I barely had time to sit down before being called back—everything moved faster than usual, which was a pleasant surprise! The technician who performed the initial tests was kind, patient, and explained each step clearly. When I met with the doctor, they took the time to answer all my questions and went over my results in detail without making me feel rushed. I really appreciated how thorough and attentive they were while still keeping the appointment on schedule. It’s always nice to visit a medical office where you can tell they value your time as much as your health. My entire experience felt efficient, professional, and caring from start to finish. I highly recommend Denver Eye Surgeons to anyone looking for a trustworthy, well-run, and clean eye care facility. I left feeling confident in my vision care and grateful for their excellent service.

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The technician, Chi Vu was extraordinarily professional, knowledgeable and pleasant. She explained every procedure, articulating in precise terms their purpose and significance. Her demeanor was absolutely top notch! Dr Sarah Crosby was equally delightful in every aspect of the visit. She spoke in a way that was completely understandable and positively comforting. I recommend both of these "vision experts" most highly and am grateful for the care they provided. Thank you and may God continue to bless you both in your profession 🙏

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Todd maus is an extremely bright knowledgeable and compassionate surgeon. It is extremely difficult to find that many qualities and any one doctor

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My annual checkup was smooth and without any issues. Easy to park with direct access to the office. An extremely short wait before I was called up to check-in. Again a very short wait until I was called in for my exam. All staff were polite, friendly and thorough. All questions were addressed and I left very satisfied. D.J.

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Beyond excellent, I couldn’t have asked for a better facility or better people to help me They are truly a blessing

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These folks are great. Dr. Deibert has been amazing. I had a detached retina, and he dropped everything to get me into surgery the same day. Everything went well, excellent followup, great folks overall. Can't be more positive about the service here.

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