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 II, 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
“It’s always a pleasure to see Dr. Kaluzney. He’s so thorough and knowledgeable.”
“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…”
“Excellent doctor , very kind and explains everything in a way that you understand . One of the best!”
“Dr Jones was very thorough and explained my condition very well.”
“All good. Thorough and efficient. Also, very pleasant staff members working there.”
“Great Doctor!!!!!!!!!”
“Dr. Minnal is very caring about her patients eye care! It was a pleasant experience!”
“Consult process very extensive and professional, Dr Biber thoroughly explained my eye condition and cataract surgery process. One suggestion: I received a brief precheck text which I completed. When got to appt…”
“I know this doctor's office from bringing so many people there for appointments over the years. In my mind that means something to bring that many people. The whole experience was very…”
“Excellent, insightful care from Dr Biber. Thanks”
“I went to Dr. Biber for cataract surgery. One eye done and so far all is great! Dr. Biber is very nice and is an expert on eyes. I recommend him!”
“Stephan Gut visits was professional just as all other visits prior”
“Very friendly, simple and accurate. Committed.”
“Great”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. Sheila Garcia Santana. From the moment I began receiving care from her, she has consistently demonstrated an exceptional combination of knowledge, professionalism, compassion, and…”
“Excellent care, efficient and effective”
“My husband is his patient. He's knowledgeable in all fields. My husband had torn retina and he took us to another office after hours and did surgery. Eye been wonderful ever since…”
“Excellent doctor listened to my concerns and figured out what was wrong with my vision. Explained in detail so I could understand and not worry.”
Cataract Resources
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- Posted in Blog, Cataracts & General
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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.


















