Proudly rated 4.8 from 7,600+ patient reviews
Cataract Surgery & Treatment in Charlotte, NC
We provide expert cataract eye care using the latest technology including laser cataract surgery and premium lens implants to help you see better than ever.
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Understanding Cataracts
A cataract is your eye’s natural lens that has become cloudy over time. Normally crystal clear, this lens focuses light onto your retina to create sharp images. When proteins in the lens break down and clump together, they create cloudy areas that blur your vision, like looking through a dusty windshield.
Cataracts are incredibly common. By age 80, over half of all Americans have them or have had cataract surgery. The average age for surgery is 68, and results are typically dramatic improvements in both clarity and color perception. Once removed, cataracts cannot return.
Risk Profile
Cataracts develop gradually with age, but certain factors can accelerate their progression. Risk factors include prolonged sun exposure, diabetes, smoking, steroid medications, previous eye injuries or surgeries, and a family history of early cataracts. Common symptoms include blurred or hazy vision, difficulty driving at night, light sensitivity, and fading colors.
Many patients don’t realize how much cataracts affect their daily life until surgery restores their clarity and color perception. If you notice frequent prescription changes or colors appearing dull, it may be time for an evaluation. Regular comprehensive eye exams help us monitor progression and identify the right time for surgery.
Cataract Detection
Cataracts are detected through a comprehensive dilated eye exam that allows our specialists to examine the lens for cloudiness and assess how significantly it is affecting your vision. Advanced diagnostic tools measure visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and glare to fully evaluate your needs.
Early detection allows us to monitor your cataracts over time and plan the best surgical approach when you’re ready. We use precise biometry, corneal mapping, and optical coherence tomography to select the ideal lens implant for your eyes, ensuring the most accurate vision correction possible after surgery.
Types We Treat
The most common form is a nuclear cataract, which forms in the center of the lens and gradually yellows and hardens with age. Cortical cataracts form around the edges of the lens and grow inward, while posterior subcapsular cataracts form at the back of the lens and can progress quickly.
Each type affects vision differently and may progress at a different rate. Regardless of cataract type, our fellowship-trained surgeons offer the same advanced techniques and premium lens options to restore your clearest, brightest vision.
Advanced Cataract Surgery Options
We provide the full spectrum of cataract treatment, including traditional techniques, laser-assisted surgery, premium lens implants, and the revolutionary Light Adjustable Lens™. Every patient begins with a thorough evaluation so we can match the right approach to your vision goals.

Traditional Cataract Surgery
Our experienced surgeons use ultrasound technology (phacoemulsification) to gently break up and remove the cloudy lens through a tiny incision, then implant a clear artificial lens to restore your vision.

Laser Cataract Surgery
Advanced femtosecond laser technology assists with key surgical steps, creating precise incisions and softening the cataract for easier removal. This can improve accuracy and potentially speed recovery.

Premium Lens Implants
Premium IOLs include toric lenses for astigmatism, multifocal lenses for distance and near vision, extended depth of focus lenses, and the Light Adjustable Lens™ that can be fine-tuned after surgery.

Monovision Correction
One eye corrected primarily for distance and one for near, reducing dependence on glasses for everyday activities without requiring premium lens upgrades.
Charlotte's Top Cataract Specialists
Our cataract surgeons bring advanced surgical expertise and compassionate care to every procedure, helping you see with clarity and confidence.
Brent Hoffman, MD
Expert in Cornea and External Diseases, Cataract Surgery, Comprehensive Ophthalmology
Jonathan S. Minkowski, MD
Cataract, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Specialist
Gerald B. Rosen, MD
Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgery Specialist
Serving Cotswold, Mallard Creek & Pineville
Hunter S. Stolldorf, MD
Cataract, LASIK & Refractive Surgery Specialist
Serving Cotswold, Mallard Creek & Mooresville
Royce R. Syracuse, MD, MBA
Comprehensive Ophthalmology & Cataract Surgeon
Serving Huntersville & Mooresville
Xueyang (Sarah) Wang, MD
Fellowship-Trained Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgeon
Serving Cotswold & Mallard Creek
Proudly rated 4.8 from 7,600+ patient reviews
Cataract Care Across Charlotte
Exceptional, fellowship-trained care is available close to home at all these Charlotte-area locations:
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Vision Restored, Lives Transformed
Proudly rated 4.8 from 7,600+ patient reviews
“I transferred from CEENTA to Dr Ryder at Horizon Eye Care-Cotswold. Today was my first appointment. I can say I was pleasantly surprised. I had absolutely no wait time. The office has…”
“Dr. Cameron was friendly yet quite professional. His exam seemed thorough and his recommendations sound. He answered questions I had and took his time - he was not rushed to get to…”
“All staff from checking in at the front desk, throughout my appointment were very helpful. Dr.Minkowski did a great job of explaining options/the process of cataract surgery with me, especially given my…”
“I have been coming to Dr. Minkowski for over 2 years and he is an awesome doctor. He makes you feel welcomed and worry free. He explains everything in detail and will…”
“Very good!”
“Dr Beaupre was amazing, very knowledgeable and helpful. Great experience”
“I was diagnosed with a posterior vitreous detachment. Dr Rouse was attentive to my concerns. He checked my eyes, thoroughly explained my situation and a pathway forward. Definitely put me at ease.…”
“Doctor is awsome, just too much waiting time period, My appointment was 3:30 I was there at 3 pm It took 3 hours for my appointment Just regular check up for my…”
“Best eye doctor I’ve ever seen! Her compassion and care are evident at every visit.”
“Excellent patient care from check in to check out.”
“Excellent knowledge, bedside manner and skill. Explanation of the procedure and execution were all in sync. Follow-up appointments all exactly how he said it would be. Support staff all excellent. Couldn’t be…”
“Always a long wait. They moved me into a room and assistant dif most of the exam. The I waited to see the Dr for approx 40 mins. He spent maybe 5…”
“Not very aware of patient. Has attended Dr Krug for over 35 years”
“Everyone was very friendly”
“Dr. Tomasko took the time to answer my questions. He is a great doctor. Thank you!”
“Very knowledgeable, staff friendly, got me in really quickly!”
“Everyone at the facility was kind, gracious, and understanding. Dr. Wang and her team treated me so nicely! Everyone was friendly, caring, and competent.”
“Always a pleasure and great work!”
“Very nice doctor.. was honest and made sure my son had a great surgery thanks!”
“Professional EyeCare. The staff are polite, courteous and very helpful. My appointment was at 8:50 a.m. I was seen soon after I filled out the proper forms. I cc received excellent treatment.…”
Cataract Resources
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- Posted in Astigmatism, Blog, Cataracts & General
Cataract FAQs
Does cataract surgery hurt?
Cataract surgery is virtually painless. We use numbing eye drops and mild sedation to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Most patients report feeling only mild pressure around the eye, and many say the experience was much easier than anticipated.
How long does cataract surgery take?
The procedure itself takes about 15–20 minutes per eye. However, plan to spend about 2–3 hours at the surgery center for preparation and recovery. Most patients go home the same day and can return to normal activities within a day or two.
Will I need cataract surgery on both eyes?
If you have cataracts in both eyes, surgery is typically performed one eye at a time, usually 1–2 weeks apart. This allows the first eye to heal and your vision to stabilize before treating the second eye.
Is cataract surgery covered by insurance?
Yes, Medicare and most private insurance plans cover medically necessary cataract surgery, including the surgical procedure and basic IOL implants. Premium lens upgrades and laser-assisted surgery may require additional out-of-pocket payment.
When can I drive after cataract surgery?
Most patients can resume driving within 24–48 hours after surgery, once cleared by their doctor at the first post-operative visit. Your vision typically improves dramatically within the first day.
Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?
This depends on the type of lens implant you choose. Basic monofocal lenses typically provide excellent distance vision but may require reading glasses. Premium multifocal or accommodating lenses can reduce dependence on glasses for both distance and near tasks.

















