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Which Type of Cataract Surgery Is Right for Me?

April 25, 2025

If you’ve been dealing with blurry vision for a while, you might already be thinking about cataract surgery.

This procedure replaces your eye’s cloudy lens with a clear, artificial one – helping you see the world more clearly again. But with so many options out there, it’s natural to have questions.

We turned to Alan Solinsky, MD, an ophthalmologist at Hartford Hospital Eye Surgery Center, to break it all down. Here’s what you need to know.

Thinking about cataract surgery?

When exploring cataract surgery, you’ll likely come across two main types.

Understanding the differences can help you make the best choice for your vision – and Dr. Solinsky helps bring this into focus.

• Phacoemulsification (Phaco) Surgery: “This is the most common type of cataract surgery,” says Dr. Solinsky. “A small incision is made in the eye, and an ultrasound probe breaks the cataract into tiny pieces. These pieces are then suctioned out of the eye, and an artificial lens – called an intraocular lens or IOL – is implanted.”
• Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (LACS): This advanced approach uses a laser to create precise incisions and soften the cataract before removal. “It can improve accuracy and potentially reduce recovery time compared to traditional methods,” says Dr. Solinsky.

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Meet the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL).

The Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) is a game-changer for cataract surgery.

This innovative silicone intraocular lens (IOL) contains special macromers that respond to UV light, allowing precise adjustments to fine-tune vision after surgery.

Unlike multifocal lenses, which can sometimes cause glare and halos, the LAL does not have these side effects.

“The LAL is the most accurate intraocular lens available,” says Dr. Solinsky. “Unlike traditional lenses, which are fixed, this one can be adjusted after the eye has healed – giving patients the best possible vision outcome.”

After about three weeks, you’ll have a follow-up appointment for adjustments. You’ll also need to wear UV-blocking glasses during the day for 6–8 weeks and attend a few more visits to complete the process.

Why choose the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL)?

If you have healthy eyes and a normal-sized pupil, chances are you’re a good candidate for the LAL.

“Even patients with hard-to-predict vision – such as those with irregular corneas or a history of radial keratotomy or LASIK – tend to do very well with LALs,” says Dr. Solinsky. “We can use it with any surgical approach.”

The results speak for themselves. Close to 95% of patients achieve 20/20 uncorrected vision at a distance, near or a mix of both – twice as many as with traditional lenses.

“The biggest benefit of LAL is its accuracy,” Dr. Solinsky adds. “Your eye has time to heal, and you get to test drive your vision to make sure it’s exactly what you want. It’s like getting a custom-tailored suit or dress.”

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Ready to decide?

Start by considering what matters most to you.

Are you comfortable wearing glasses, or would you rather invest in cataract surgery to rely on them less?

Just don’t wait until your vision becomes a problem.

“See us before your eyesight starts affecting your ability to drive safely or enjoy daily activities and hobbies,” says Dr. Solinsky. “Together, we’ll find your best cataract surgery option.”