At Riverside Eye Center, we understand that the decision to have cataract surgery can bring up many questions. E. Michael Balok, MD, our board-certified cataract surgeon and founder, along with his experienced team of doctors and staff, are here to provide expert care and personalized guidance every step of the way. Before your cataract surgery, you'll have a thorough evaluation with Dr. Balok to determine the best lens implant option for your vision and lifestyle needs.

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens in the eye, which leads to blurry vision. It develops gradually, often due to aging, and can make it harder to see clearly, especially in bright light or at night. Cataracts can also cause colors to look faded and increase glare from lights. They are most commonly related to aging but can also result from eye injury, certain medical conditions (like diabetes), or prolonged exposure to UV rays. Treatment involves surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one.

What is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure performed to restore clear vision by removing the clouded natural lens and replacing it with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL). At Riverside Eye Center, Dr. Balok performs this outpatient procedure using advanced microsurgical techniques.

Where does Cataract Surgery Take Place?

Dr. Balok performs cataract surgery at the following accredited facilities:

Lakeshore Surgery Center

📍 4190 24th Avenue, Fort Gratiot, MI 48059
📞 810-216-4300

Ascension River District Hospital

📍 4100 River Rd, East China, MI 48054
📞 810-329-7111

Ascension St. John Hospital at 23 Mile

📍 17700 23 Mile Rd, Macomb, MI 48044
📞 586-416-7500

Our team will coordinate your surgery location based on your preference, convenience, and insurance coverage.

What Should I Expect on the Day of Cataract Surgery?

On the day of surgery, you'll arrive at the surgery center where our caring team will prepare you for the procedure. Your eye will be numbed with eye drops, and you'll receive additional drops to dilate your pupil. An IV will be placed to provide gentle "twilight sedation", keeping you relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. You will remain awake, but calm and pain-free.

During surgery, Dr. Balok will make a small incision and use advanced ultrasound technology to gently remove the clouded cataract lens. An artificial lens (IOL) is then inserted in its place. The incisions created during cataract surgery are self-sealing and typically no stitches are required.

How Long Does Cataract Surgery Take?

The entire procedure typically takes around 5-10 minutes, but may vary depending on the severity and complexity of the cataract. You can expect to be at the surgery center for approximately 2-3 hours. This time allow for pre-surgery preparation, including eye drops and sedation, as well as careful monitoring in the recovery area after your procedure.

What Should I Expect After Surgery?

• Go home the same day

• You will leave with the surgical eye patched. Keep the patch on until your follow-up visit the next day.

• As the surgical medications wear off, your eye may feel irritated, light sensitive, sore, itchy, and/or watery

• Use prescribed eye drops to aid healing for approximately 4 weeks

• Avoid strenuous activity and rubbing your eyes

• Attend scheduled follow-up visits

• Vision should improve within 1-2 days following surgery, with the vast majority achieving stable vision by 1-2 weeks

• if prescription glasses are necessary to fully correct vision, these can generally be prescribed 1 month after surgery

Can a Cataract Come Back?

No – once a cataract is removed, it cannot return. However, some patients develop a common condition called posterior capsular opacification (PCO), where the membrane behind the implant becomes cloudy over time. This is a condition that can be treated with a laser.

What Is a YAG Laser Capsulotomy?

PCO is treated with a simple, painless laser procedure known as a YAG laser capsulotomy.

• Done in-office in just a few minutes

• No incisions or stitches

• Vision often improves almost immediately

• Typically does not need to be repeated

• Cannot be completed until at least 90 days after surgery

Do Lens Implants Wear Out?

No – lens implants are permanent and designed to last a lifetime. They do not deteriorate or need to be replaced over time.

What Are My Lens Implant Options?

We offer a variety of intraocular lenses, including:

• Standard Monofocal Lenses

  • Provide clearer vision at one distance

  • Prescription glasses will likely be required full time after surgery

  • There is no additional cost for the lens implant

  • Out of pocket costs will be determined by any copays, coinsurance, or deductibles through your medical insurance

• Toric Lenses

  • Correct astigmatism for sharper distance vision

  • There is an additional fee for this lens implant

  • Out of pocket costs will be determined by any copays, coinsurance, or deductibles through your medical insurance in combination with the cost associated for this lens implant option

  • Glasses will likely be required for reading/close work after surgery

• Multifocal / Premium Lenses

  • Correct vision at both distance and near

  • Help reduce or eliminate the need for glasses after surgery

  • There is an additional fee for this lens implant

  • Glasses still may be necessary for fine print/dim lighting

  • Out of pocket costs will be determined by any copays, coinsurance, or deductibles through your medical insurance in combination with the cost associated for this lens implant option

Dr. Balok will guide you through your options to find the best fit for your lifestyle and visual needs.

Understanding Billing

You may receive two separate bills related to your cataract procedure:

1. From Riverside Eye Center or MD Eye Center for Dr. Balok’s surgical services

2. From the surgery center for anesthesia and facility fees

Our staff is happy to help explain your insurance coverage and any expected out-of-pocket costs.

Schedule Your Consultation

Have more questions or ready to take the next step?
Schedule a cataract evaluation with Dr. Balok today and let the team at Riverside Eye Center guide you toward clearer, more confident vision.

📞 Call us today or use our online appointment request form to get started.

Cataract Surgery FAQ's