Cataracts are one of the most common vision problems people face as they get older—and thankfully, they’re also one of the most treatable. If you’ve been told you or a loved one needs cataract surgery, it’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous.
But the good news? Cataract surgery is a safe, quick, and highly effective procedure that has helped millions of people regain clearer vision and enjoy life more fully.
At East West Eye in Covina, our board-certified eye surgeons have decades of experience performing cataract surgeries using the latest tools and techniques. Whether you’re just starting to notice vision changes or you’ve already scheduled your surgery, knowing what to expect is the first step toward peace of mind.
Let’s walk you through everything you need to know about what to expect from cataract surgery—from your first consultation in Covina to recovery and follow-up care.
We’ll keep things simple and straightforward, so you feel informed and confident about your next steps.
Let’s dive in.
What Are Cataracts and Why Do They Need Surgery?
Cataracts happen when the clear lens of your eye becomes cloudy, making it harder to see clearly.
Imagine looking through a fogged-up window—that’s what vision can feel like with cataracts. This clouding usually develops slowly over time and is often related to aging, but other factors like diabetes, smoking, or eye injuries can speed things up.
According to the National Eye Institute, more than half of all Americans age 80 and older either have cataracts or have had cataract surgery. And it’s not just a problem for seniors—by age 65, the likelihood of developing cataracts increases significantly.
People with cataracts often experience:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Glare and halos around lights (especially at night)
- Colors appearing faded or yellowish
- Trouble seeing clearly when reading or driving
These changes may start subtly but can worsen to the point where they interfere with daily life.
Why Surgery Is the Only Long-Term Solution
Unlike some eye conditions that can be managed with glasses or eye drops, cataracts cannot be reversed or cured without surgery. Once your vision becomes significantly impaired, removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial one is the only way to restore clarity.
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful procedures performed in the United States. According to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, the procedure has a success rate of over 98%, with most patients experiencing significantly improved vision within a few days.
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all surgery either—today’s technology allows patients to choose from a variety of intraocular lenses (IOLs) that can improve both distance and reading vision, reducing or even eliminating the need for glasses in some cases.
Cataract Symptoms at a Glance
| Common Symptom | Description |
| Blurry or foggy vision | Like looking through a smudged or foggy lens |
| Glare from lights | Increased sensitivity, especially at night |
| Faded or yellowed colors | Difficulty distinguishing color contrast |
| Poor night vision | Trouble driving or seeing in low-light settings |
| Frequent prescription changes | Glasses no longer help maintain clear vision |
Preparing for Cataract Surgery in Covina
Getting ready for cataract surgery is usually a smooth and straightforward process, especially when you’re in expert hands. At East West Eye in Covina, we take the time to walk each patient through every step so you feel fully prepared and confident on surgery day.
Here’s what you can expect before your procedure:
Initial Eye Exam and Consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive eye exam at our Covina office. During this appointment, our board-certified eye doctors will:
- Assess the cloudiness and density of your cataract
- Test your visual acuity and eye pressure
- Measure the shape and length of your eye to select the best artificial lens (IOL) for you
This exam is also your chance to ask questions and discuss any symptoms you’re experiencing, like night glare or difficulty reading. Your doctor will explain the benefits of surgery, walk you through your lens options, and help determine the best timing for your procedure.
For many people, cataracts are not urgent at first. But when your vision starts affecting your everyday life—like driving, reading, or recognizing faces—that’s when cataract surgery becomes necessary.
Pro Tip: If you’re getting a cataract exam in Covina, bring:
- A list of current medications
- Your glasses or contact lenses
- Any questions you might have
Pre-Surgery Instructions
Once your surgery is scheduled, the team at East West Eye will provide clear pre-operative instructions to follow in the days leading up to your procedure. These may include:
- Medication guidelines: You may be asked to stop certain medications (like blood thinners) temporarily.
- Fasting: Avoid eating or drinking after midnight the night before surgery.
- Transportation: Since you won’t be able to drive immediately after surgery, arrange for a friend or family member to bring you home.
- Pre-surgery eye drops: You may be given antibiotic or anti-inflammatory drops to use for a few days prior to surgery to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
You’ll also get a complete checklist from our Covina office so you can prepare confidently and avoid any surprises on surgery day.
Meeting Your Local Covina Eye Surgeon
One of the biggest comforts for patients is knowing exactly who will be performing their surgery. At East West Eye, our cataract surgeons in Covina are all board-certified and have decades of combined experience in advanced eye procedures.
You’ll meet with your surgeon before the big day to go over final details and address any remaining questions.
We pride ourselves on building relationships with our patients, so you never feel like “just another number.” Every person’s eyes and goals are different, and we tailor your treatment plan to suit your lifestyle and vision needs.
Local Tip: Our Covina location is centrally located and easily accessible for patients coming from West Covina, Baldwin Park, Glendora, and the greater San Gabriel Valley.
What Happens During Cataract Surgery?
If you’ve never had surgery before—or even if you have—it’s completely normal to feel a bit anxious. The good news is that cataract surgery is quick, painless, and performed on an outpatient basis. That means no hospital stay, no general anesthesia, and a fast recovery.
Here’s what happens during the procedure at our Covina cataract surgery center.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Procedure
Cataract surgery typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes per eye, and most patients are back home within a couple of hours. Here’s a simplified look at how it works:
Step 1: Numbing the Eye
Before anything begins, your eye is numbed using special anesthetic eye drops. You may also receive a mild sedative to help you relax, but you’ll stay awake the whole time.
Step 2: Tiny Incision
Using a high-precision instrument, your surgeon will make a microscopic incision in your eye—so small it usually doesn’t even require stitches.
Step 3: Lens Removal
The cloudy natural lens (the cataract) is gently broken up using ultrasound technology (a process called phacoemulsification) and removed from the eye.
Step 4: Lens Replacement
A clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted in its place. This new lens stays in your eye permanently and restores sharp vision.
Step 5: Final Checks and Recovery
Your surgeon ensures the lens is positioned correctly, and you’ll rest briefly in recovery before heading home the same day.
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
While the surgery itself only takes 10–20 minutes, expect to be at our Covina clinic for about 90 minutes total. That includes check-in, preparation, and post-op monitoring. You won’t be able to drive, so be sure to bring someone with you.
Will It Hurt?
Nope! Most patients say the surgery is completely painless. Thanks to the numbing eye drops and light sedation, you’ll likely only feel mild pressure or a sensation of cool water during the procedure.
Afterward, it’s common to experience:
- Mild itching or scratchiness
- Sensitivity to light
- Slight blurriness as your eye adjusts
These symptoms are temporary and usually resolve within a day or two.
Advanced Technology, Local Expertise
At East West Eye in Covina, we use cutting-edge surgical equipment and techniques that allow for more precise, comfortable, and successful outcomes. Our eye surgeons perform cataract procedures daily, with thousands of successful surgeries under their belts.
That’s the benefit of choosing a dedicated, local team—you get big-city technology with small-town care.
What to Expect After Cataract Surgery
One of the biggest questions patients ask us at East West Eye is: “How long will it take to heal after cataract surgery?” The truth is, recovery is often faster and easier than most people expect—especially when you follow your surgeon’s guidance closely.
Here’s a breakdown of what life looks like after your cataract procedure.
Recovery Timeline: Day One to Full Healing
Day of Surgery: You’ll go home with a protective eye shield, and your vision may feel blurry, cloudy, or slightly distorted. That’s normal—your eye is adjusting to the new lens.
First 24–48 Hours: You might notice clearer vision very quickly, even within a day. Some patients describe it as “seeing in HD” again. Light sensitivity, mild irritation, or a gritty feeling (like there’s something in your eye) is common but should fade fast.
Week One: By now, your vision should be noticeably sharper. You’ll have a follow-up appointment at our Covina office to check your healing progress. Most patients return to their normal routines—with a few restrictions—within a few days.
Four to Six Weeks: Full healing typically takes about a month, though many people feel fully back to normal much sooner. By this time, your eye will have adjusted fully to the new intraocular lens.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Following a few simple post-op guidelines can make all the difference in how quickly and comfortably you heal. At East West Eye, we provide each patient with a personalized recovery plan, but here are the basics:
- Use your prescribed eye drops exactly as directed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
- Avoid rubbing your eye, bending over, or lifting anything heavy for the first week.
- Wear your protective eye shield while sleeping, especially during the first few nights.
- Limit exposure to dust and wind—this is a great excuse to skip housework or yard work for a bit!
- Hold off on makeup, swimming, or contact sports until your doctor gives the green light.
When to Call Your Eye Doctor
Most patients experience a smooth recovery, but it’s important to stay alert for any signs of complications, such as:
- Persistent or worsening pain
- Sudden vision loss
- Flashes of light or floaters
- Excessive redness or discharge
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact our Covina clinic immediately. Your care team is here to support you every step of the way, and catching issues early ensures fast, effective treatment.
Post-Op Care That Puts You First
What truly sets East West Eye in Covina apart is our dedication to long-term care. We don’t just perform your surgery and send you on your way. We stay with you throughout your healing process to make sure your results are everything you hoped for—and more.
Whether you’re coming in for a quick follow-up or have a question about a symptom, our team is always just a phone call or short drive away.
Choosing the Right Cataract Surgery Provider in Covina
Cataract surgery is one of the most successful and life-changing procedures in modern medicine—but the results you get depend heavily on who performs it. When you’re trusting someone with your eyesight, experience and personalized care matter more than anything else.
At East West Eye in Covina, we offer both.
Why East West Eye is a Trusted Name in Eye Care
When it comes to your vision, you shouldn’t have to choose between cutting-edge care and compassionate, local service. At East West Eye, we’ve been helping Southern California residents see more clearly for decades—and we’re proud to bring world-class expertise to our patients right here in Covina.
Here’s what makes our practice stand out:
- Board-Certified Eye Surgeons: Every one of our cataract specialists is fully board-certified and trained in the latest surgical techniques and technologies.
- Decades of Experience: We’ve performed thousands of cataract surgeries with consistently excellent outcomes.
- Advanced Surgical Technology: We invest in the most up-to-date diagnostic and surgical equipment to ensure precise, safe results.
- Personalized Lens Options: From standard monofocal lenses to advanced premium IOLs that reduce your need for glasses, we tailor your treatment to fit your lifestyle.
- Bilingual, Multicultural Staff: Our diverse team makes every patient feel welcome and understood, with services available in English, Spanish, and more.
Our goal isn’t just to fix your vision—it’s to improve your quality of life.
Local Expertise with a Personal Touch
Being based in Covina means we understand the needs of our local community. We’re not a high-volume surgery center that rushes patients in and out. Instead, we build relationships—many of our patients have been with us for years, referring friends and family because they know we treat every person like a priority.
Whether you’re a retiree looking to regain your independence, or you’re still in the workforce and tired of struggling with blurry vision, our team takes the time to listen, answer your questions, and create a care plan just for you.
Still unsure? We invite you to read our testimonials from real Covina-area patients who’ve had life-changing cataract surgery at East West Eye.
“I just had Cataract surgery yesterday, and today, I feel great and I can see out of my right eye again. Melinda and Dr. explained the process fully before my surgery and all went by their script. Thanks Dr. Marsico” – A.R., patient
Still Have Questions? Let’s Clear Them Up
By now, you’ve learned a lot about what to expect from cataract surgery in Covina—but you might still have a few lingering questions. That’s completely normal. Here’s what many of our patients ask once they’ve had their consultation and are preparing for surgery.
You might be wondering…
Will I still need glasses after surgery?
That depends on the type of lens you choose. Many patients who opt for standard monofocal lenses still wear glasses for reading or close-up tasks.
However, if you choose a premium lens—like a multifocal or toric IOL—you may reduce or even eliminate your dependence on glasses altogether. At East West Eye, we’ll walk you through your lens options during your pre-surgery consultation so you can make the best decision for your lifestyle.
Is cataract surgery covered by insurance?
In most cases, yes. Medicare and most private insurance plans typically cover the cost of cataract surgery with a standard intraocular lens.
If you choose a premium lens for additional vision correction, there may be an out-of-pocket cost. Our Covina team will verify your insurance benefits and clearly explain any expenses up front—no surprises.
How soon can I drive after surgery?
Most patients can resume driving within a few days, as long as their vision meets legal standards and they feel comfortable. You’ll need someone to drive you home the day of the procedure, but you’ll be surprised at how quickly your vision begins to improve.
Can both eyes be done at the same time?
Cataract surgery is typically performed on one eye at a time, with the second procedure scheduled a week or two later. This approach allows your first eye to heal and gives your surgeon a chance to fine-tune the plan for your second eye based on how you respond.
What’s the best age for cataract surgery?
There’s no magic number—it’s less about age and more about how much your cataracts are affecting your daily life. That said, most people have cataract surgery between the ages of 60 and 80, though some develop cataracts earlier due to health conditions, medications, or eye injuries. If blurry vision is holding you back from enjoying your life, it’s time to explore your options.
Is cataract surgery really that safe?
Yes—and it’s backed by decades of data. Cataract surgery has one of the highest success rates of any surgical procedure, with over 98% of cases resulting in improved vision. At East West Eye in Covina, our safety protocols, modern equipment, and experienced surgical team work together to give you the best possible outcome.
Still curious about something else? Just ask. Our team is here to make sure you feel comfortable, informed, and ready—every step of the way.
Take the First Step Toward Clearer Vision Today
Cataracts don’t just cloud your vision—they can slowly impact your independence, safety, and quality of life. But the solution is simpler, safer, and more effective than ever. At East West Eye in Covina, we make cataract surgery feel less like a procedure and more like a fresh start.
Whether you’ve just noticed changes in your vision or you’ve been putting off surgery for a while, there’s never been a better time to schedule an exam. Our board-certified team is here to guide you through every step with experience, compassion, and the kind of personalized care that puts your mind at ease.
Your clearer vision starts with a comprehensive eye exam.
We invite you to book your appointment today at our Covina location—conveniently serving patients from West Covina, Glendora, Baldwin Park, and surrounding areas. And if you’re located closer to the South Bay, we also proudly offer cataract care at our Gardena and Torrance offices.
Take that first step: Schedule Your Eye Exam at East West Eye.
Your future looks brighter when you can see it clearly. We’re here to help you get there.
