CATARACT SURGERY
Comprehensive Cataract Surgery Services in Santa Monica, California
Experience the benefits of cataract surgery at Santa Monica Eye Medical Group.
Cataracts Explained
Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure that restores clear vision for individuals with cataracts. Cataracts occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing blurred vision and difficulty seeing in low-light conditions. At Santa Monica Eye Medical Group, we offer comprehensive cataract surgery services to help you regain optimal vision and enhance your quality of life.

Standard Cataract Surgery
This procedure, which can be billed to insurance, involves manually removing the cataract and inserting a mono-focal lens IOL. However, near or intermediate vision may still require additional correction.
Advanced Femtolaser Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS)
Utilizing cutting-edge technology, FLACS offers precise and customized treatment. Please note that this procedure is not covered by insurance.
Optiwave Refractive Analysis (ORA) SYSTEM®
This intraoperative aberrometer ensures accurate lens power and astigmatism correction during cataract surgery. Insurance does not cover this procedure.
Refractive Cataract Surgery
We provide various options, including Presbyopic, Multifocal, Trifocal, and full depth of focus lens IOLs, addressing your specific vision requirements. Astigmatic correction with Toric IOL lenses is also available. Insurance does not cover these procedures, but they significantly reduce the need for glasses or post-surgery correction.
Yag Laser Capsulotomy
This procedure, which can be billed to insurance, addresses posterior capsule opacity or scar (PCO), commonly referred to as a secondary cataract. It ensures clear vision following cataract surgery.
Benefits of Cataract Surgery
SEE THE DIFFERENCE
Significant Improved Vision for Life
Cataract surgery removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with an intraocular lens (IOL), improving your vision clarity and sharpness.
Significant Enhanced Quality of Life
By restoring clear vision, cataract surgery allows you to engage in daily activities with ease, such as reading, driving, and enjoying hobbies.
Reduced Dependence on Glasses
Depending on the chosen IOL, you may experience reduced reliance on glasses for near, intermediate, or distance vision.
Correction of Astigmatism
Refractive cataract surgery can address astigmatism, providing a comprehensive solution to your vision needs.
Overview of Cataract Surgery
Are You Ready?
ARE YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR CATARACT SURGERY?
Cataract surgery may be recommended if you:
● Have clouded or blurry vision that interferes with daily activities.
● Experience difficulty driving at night due to glare or halos around lights.
● Find it challenging to read or perform close-up tasks.
● Have tried non-surgical methods, such as glasses or contact lenses, without achieving satisfactory results.
Our experienced ophthalmologists at Santa Monica Eye Medical Group will evaluate your eye health and vision to determine if cataract surgery is the right option for you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
No, cataract surgery is typically painless as it is performed under local anesthesia. Patients may experience mild discomfort during the healing process.
Most patients experience improved vision within a few days, with full recovery typically achieved within a few weeks.
While cataract surgery is commonly performed on one eye at a time, your ophthalmologist will assess your individual case and recommend the most suitable approach.
The results of cataract surgery are permanent. Once the clouded lens is removed and replaced with an IOL, it will not develop cataracts again.
Cataract surgery is considered safe, but like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. Your ophthalmologist will discuss these risks and address any concerns you may have.
Our Clients Love Us!
"Dr Stelzner saw me right away and stopped my issue before
it became serious. She also is thoughtful and thinks about the whole picture - a great doctor – not just one to do an eye exam and send you on your way"
NISHA G.
"I've been coming here for about 5 years now because I have a difficult prescription and love this Eye group. Everyone here is super friendly especially the lady at the glasses desk. Highly recommend this office, it's a great customer experience"
MICHAL F.
Yelp
"Very friendly staff and knowledgeable optometrist. They are helpful and courteous without being pushy or trying to force you to buy something you're not ready to buy yet. The optometrist was very professional and did a great job explaining the changes in my prescription and the new lenses I'd have to choose from as my previous brand is no longer on the market. 5/5 would recommend to anyone needing a good eye doctor in Los Angeles"
DANIELLE S.
Patient
"I am very lucky to have found Santa Monica Eye Medical Group. Having seen good reviews about the office, and now done a procedure with them, I completely understand why they have such great reviews. The staff is great, extremely competent, very professional, and friendly...Santa Monica Eye Medical Group has assembled a team of elite, competent, caring healthcare professionals. Very strong recommend"
JOHN C.
Yelp
"Dr. Braun was absolutely wonderful. Professional, enthusiastic, knowledgeable, warm, caring andunderstanding. She practically answered my many questions before I could get them out."
RAY L.
"The doctors and tech and front desk receptionists are all so incredibly warm and smart and they make the experience enjoyable. My tech was so assuring and wonderful. Thank you"
DIANA B.
Yelp
"Great experience. Super clean and Covid safe. Saw Dr. Stelzner right away. Dr. Stelzner is a wonderful, thorough doctor. Everything is very pleasant and professional. Highly recommended"
FERN M.
Yelp
"I received a new multifocal PanOptic lens for my right eye as I had early stage cataracts. The surgery by Dr. Stelzner and the support of her medical team were terrific. My follow up and care by her office staff was great as well. For those in need I would highly recommend her and staff for your surgery. You will be in caring skillful hands"
JEFF T.
Yelp
EXPERT CATARACT SURGERY SERVICES IN SANTA MONICA, CA
Trust your vision to the experienced team at Santa Monica Eye Medical Group. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our cataract surgery services. Rediscover a clear vision and enhance your quality of life with our comprehensive solutions.