Cataract Surgery Minneapolis

Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss for adults and can develop gradually with age. Fortunately, modern cataract surgery in Minneapolis is safe, effective, and designed to restore clear vision quickly, helping you get back to daily activities with confidence.

Dr. Chu looking thorugh microscope lens machine

What is a Cataract?

Many patients put off cataract surgery for years because it sounds frightening. Every day we have patients tell us that it was so much easier than they expected and they wish they would have done it sooner so they could have seen better a long time ago. Cataracts are essentially the clouding of your natural lens inside your eye, and the treatment simply involves Dr. Chu gently replacing your natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL). Through his expert precision, advanced Multifocal IOLs correct both nearsightedness and farsightedness for cataract patients in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or anywhere in the surrounding Twin Cities area and Minnesota.

"It was honestly easier than getting my teeth cleaned at the dentist, and I can see great."

"Everyone seemed like they enjoyed their job. I had friends who had great things to say about Dr. Chu. He seemed so knowledgeable, and he was as excited as I was about my new vision. He takes great satisfaction in helping people change their lives. It was honestly easier than getting my teeth cleaned at the dentist, and I can see great."

Brad • Cataract Patient

older patient putting her head on the eye viewing machine

Why Choose Chu Vision Institute for Cataract Surgery in Minneapolis?

Thousands of successful cataract surgeries completed
Both modern and basic cataract procedures are available
One of the few sites in Minnesota to offer Light Adjustable Lenses
Convenient on-site surgical center
Trusted by Minneapolis for over 25 years
Accepts medical insurance and offers convenient financing
Dr. Chu has participated in 100+ FDA clinical trials
First surgeon to do femtosecond laser cataract surgery in Minnesota

Schedule your Personal Cataract Consultation Now!

The Benefits of Cataract Surgery

See clearly and enjoy vivid colors once again.
Better nighttime vision improves driving and other activities.
Improved independence for a better quality of life.
Eliminate or greatly reduce your need for glasses and contacts because our wide selection of cataract Multi-focal Lenses (IOLs) correct both nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Precisely fine-tune your vision with Advanced Light Adjustable Lenses – Dr. Chu is one of only a handful of surgeons offering LAL in Minnesota.
Get the best lens for your unique eyes and vision needs with one of the widest ranges of lens options in Minneapolis.
Easy surgery day: No hospital! Our accredited ambulatory surgery center is next to our clinic.

See if you are a refractive cataract surgery candidate

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Basic vs. Modern Cataract Surgery

Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Ralph Chu is proficient in both basic manual and modern laser cataract surgeries and can decide which treatment is most effective for patients by providing comprehensive exams and full analyses of their medical histories. The major difference between the two surgeries is that the basic surgery is done with handheld surgical tools, whereas the laser method is principally done via state-of-the-art laser technology.

How Is Modern Laser Cataract Surgery Performed?

What to Expect Before Surgery

About an hour before modern refractive cataract surgery, a member of our team will fully numb the patient’s eyes with specialized eye drops. Laser cataract surgery is very similar to manual cataract surgery, except we employ innovative femtosecond lasers.

Enhanced Precision With Laser Technology

This remarkable technology graphs an extremely detailed map of the eye; therefore, the lasers can find the precise site of the cataract and soften it before breaking it up into several tiny pieces. At this point, these pieces are suctioned out of the eye, and a small incision is made to replace the preexisting lens with a multifocal intraocular lens (IOL).

Improving Corneal Shape

Unlike many other cataract surgeries, refractive cataract surgery is unique in that it permanently enhances the shape of the cornea. This allows light to bend and reach the retina seamlessly and in the correct manner. A properly shaped cornea can solve numerous ocular issues, such as astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness.

Faster Healing and Life-Changing Results

Due to its unique precision, modern laser cataract surgery technology offers exceptional results with a quicker healing process than basic manual surgery. Laser cataract surgery is a quick outpatient procedure lasting about 10-20 minutes. This makes it perfect for anyone hoping to correct their vision without prolonged pain or taking significant time off work.

Advanced Cataract Solutions at Chu Vision

Cataracts shouldn’t stand in the way of living life to the fullest. At Chu Vision, we offer the most advanced cataract treatments available, combining cutting-edge technology with personalized care to restore clarity, confidence, and freedom.

Our team is dedicated to delivering outcomes that not only improve your vision but enhance your entire quality of life.

What Our Patients Are Saying

I am pleased with my results

I had cataract surgery for my left eye with the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL). Chu Vision Institute made sure my eyes were taken care of throughout the entire process. T...

eea7198

I had the most amazing experience at Chu Vision!

I had the most amazing experience at Chu Vision! Every aspect of my journey getting the Light Adjustable Lens' to correct my vision was wonderful. Can't say enough of Dr Chu and...

Maria B.

The staffers are very professional, knowledgeable and helpful.

I knew from the moment I walked into Chu Vision, this would be where I wanted to have my cataracts taken care of. The staffers are very professional, knowledgeable and helpful. ...

Judy T.

I promise you will not just be pleased, but THRILLED!

I had been in need of cataract surgery for a while. I was having trouble finding a surgeon that I wanted to touch my eyes! Then my son had Laser Surgery at Chu Institute and was...

Pattie H.

Recovery was quick

Even with my medical background, this was out of my area of expertise, so I was pretty nervous. Quickly I was reassured by their very comprehensive examination, excellent profes...

Orlando

The procedure was quick and my recovery was totally painless

I had never had cataract surgery before, so thus was unexplored territory for me. The preparatory videos, however, were invaluable. I had numerous follow-up phone calls from Chu...

Brian M.

Can see great at long distance and up close with glasses

Light (adjustable) cataract surgery lens replacement. Satisfied with the results. Can see great at long distance and up close with glasses. Professionally run organization. Ever...

Rick M.

I now have 20/20 vision without glasses

Chu Vision is a highly professional and extremely caring Institute. My cataract surgery went well and Dr. Chu and his entire staff were amazing! They truly cared for my in...

Sherri R.

I can now drive without glasses.

Chu Vision did a great job. From the initial evaluations through the cataract surgery I had on both of my eyes. Everything went smoothly and as planned. It has now been three mo...

Mike K.

The team there made you feel comfortable and at ease

I had cataract surgery. The care was unbelievable the team there made you feel comfortable and at ease. All my follow up visits was all about my healing process and even the pho...

Willie F.

They made me feel comfortable and confident that I was in good hands.

Dr Chu is an excellent kind efficient ophthalmologist. His staff mirrors his effective leadership. My experience with every staff person was excellent. They made me feel comfort...

Mary Lou K.

The communication was exceptional

My mom recently had cataract surgery at Chu Vision, and the entire experience was absolutely wonderful. From start to finish, the team was timely, efficient, and incredibly cari...

Ouraphone W.

The best gift of clearer, colorful vision!

Chu Vision deserves 5 stars! Starting from initial visit to last eye exam after cataract surgeries one week apart on both eyes. Top notch surgeon and employees! Best decision I ...

Lori R.

Colors are so vibrant

Chu Vision Institute is a very efficiently and professionally run clinic. My cataract surgery was so successful! It seems like my vision is continuing to improve - it is clearer...

Kristine S.

I wish I could give them higher than a 5-star rating!

Chu Vision is amazing! Everyone who works there is phenomenal. With my Light Adjustable Lens I made many trips to this wonderful facility. I was always treated with kindness and...

Patty A.

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Recovery After Modern Laser Cataract Surgery

The recovery time for modern cataract surgery normally ranges from 4-8 weeks; however, it varies from patient to patient. During the recovery process, you’ll need to stick to strict aftercare directions to foster the best possible results.

You will also be advised to use a few types of prescription eye drops throughout the healing period, and it is crucial not to press on or touch the eyes for any reason while they get better. We may also require some patients to wear an eye patch for a while.

Clearer Vision Is Just Around the Corner

We will have you come back for a few follow-up evaluations, so Dr. Chu can monitor your recovery and make sure your vision is improving on schedule. For the majority of our patients, vision is noticeably improved right after the procedure, but it stays cloudy for a few days until the post-surgery inflammation starts to decrease. Some patients report seeing halos or glares around lights, but this tends to decrease over time. In general, patients are able to enjoy significantly clearer vision with less dependence on eyeglasses.

How Is Basic Manual Cataract Surgery Performed?

Considered to be both incredibly safe and exceptionally dependable, basic cataract surgery, called phacoemulsification (fak-oh-i-muhl-suh-fi-kay-shuhn), is among the most routinely conducted procedures around the globe.

Your New Lens for a Clearer Future

We can perform basic cataract surgery with a variety of lens technology, including the PanOptix multifocal lens or Light Adjustable Lens. The incision is so tiny that it doesn’t need stitches and will heal smoothly on its own.

How the Clouded Lens Is Removed

Once the patient is ready, Dr. Chu will secure a ring or suction device over each eye that hinders any movement during the surgery. Then, he will manually create a three-millimeter incision at the edge of the cornea. After this, he will utilize a separate device to reach the lens through the incision. This device breaks apart the clouded lens using ultrasonic waves so it can be easily removed and replaced with an IOL through the same incision.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Dr. Chu performs basic cataract surgery as an outpatient treatment that generally lasts around ten minutes per eye. As in modern laser cataract surgery, the patient is under “conscious sedation” during treatment; however, the eyes are totally numbed prior to starting the surgery to offer complete comfort, and most people do not remember the procedure taking place. Many patients are very surprised at how easy and painless the surgery is.

Recovery After Basic Manual Cataract Surgery

After the procedure, our staff will provide thorough aftercare directions to ensure optimal recuperation. We will let you know when to use any necessary anti-inflammatory eye drops, whether an eye bandage will be needed, advice on sleeping without bumping or touching the eyes, and not doing certain strenuous tasks. It is typical for basic cataract surgery patients to deal with a degree of distorted vision for an hour or two after the procedure, but this is just an acclimation process as your eyes adjust to the implanted lens. It is also possible to develop red scleral tissue and some slight bruising that looks like a black eye for 5-7 days after the procedure. Dr. Chu will have you return to Chu Vision Institute the next day for your initial follow-up assessment. Additional visits may be needed, depending on the speed of your recovery.

Say Goodbye to Cataracts

At Chu Vision Institute, our approach to vision care and eye health is simple. We first take the time to understand life from your unique perspective. By utilizing top technologies and techniques to treat cataracts, we can provide you with improved eyesight.

If you have cataracts or have experienced changes in your vision, contact our Twin Cities practice to arrange an evaluation with Dr. Chu and learn more about basic, modern, and lifestyle cataract surgery and other treatment options.

Cataract Surgery All Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to recover from cataract eye surgery?

It’s fast! The majority of our patients return to normal activities within 1 day or so with vision continuing to dial in and sharpen over the next few weeks.

Will my vision be blurry after cataract surgery?

Every patient’s recovery is individual. It’s common for patients to experience mild haziness in their vision for the first couple of days, while many report only a few hours of blurriness.

Are both eyes done on the same day?

While cataract procedures are done one eye at a time, the second eye quickly follows; usually about a week after the first.

How often will I need to return for follow-up visits?

Our team (or your eye doctor) will schedule follow-up visits according to your eyes’ recovery pace, usually including the day after, a week later, and a month after the procedure.

Do you need glasses after cataract surgery?

That’s up to you, and it depends on a few factors, but mostly the technology of the lens you choose! We offer the latest technology and a wide variety of options so that more patients than ever have control over how they see after their cataract procedure. Our doctors will help guide you through your lens options so that you feel confident in your decision.

How painful is a cataract procedure?

Surprisingly NOT! Moderate sedation soothes nerves and provides a comfy sleep-like state, working together with numbing drops for little to no discomfort during the procedure. Patients typically don’t remember even being in the surgery suite and enjoy ‘waking up’ to refreshments in our cozy recovery area.

When should you have cataracts removed?

Whenever you are ready and motivated to see better! The more cataracts develop, the harder the lens inside your eye becomes, making it more a difficult and lengthy process to remove. While many patients choose to wait until their cataracts are interfering with their daily activities (difficult night driving with haloes around lights, yellow or brown-tinted vision, sensitivity to light, difficulty seeing in dim lighting, etc.) many patients are now choosing to proceed even in their early stages because of the advanced lens technology that can deliver LASIK-like results and free them from complete dependence on their glasses and contacts.

What is the success rate of cataract surgery?

Excellent! According to data from the American Society of Cataract and Refractive surgery, more than 98% making it one of the safest elective procedures in the world.

Can you be alone after cataract surgery?

It’s best to have someone with you until the anesthesia has fully worn off, since we give moderate sedation during the procedure. Most patients are very sleepy and take a nice long nap when they get home. You will need a driver when you leave after your procedure and for anywhere else you may need to go for the first 24 hours or until our (or your) doctor says it’s ok to drive.

Do eyes look different after cataract surgery?

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) that replace your natural lens during the cataract procedure cannot be seen once they are implanted. For some patients the size and shape of the pupil appear to change slightly after the procedure. The older the patient, the more this effect can happen. However, significant cataracts can cause the eyes to look white or cloudy, so removing the cataracts will make eyes appear beautifully clear and dark again.

Can you watch TV after cataract surgery?

Easy does it! Most patients are able to watch a little TV or briefly glance at a screen several hours after their procedure. However, you blink less when you start at a screen which can dry out your eyes (which you don’t want to do right after your procedure). It’s best to enjoy some screen-free rest as much as you can for 24 hours and resume normal TV, computer, or phone use after you’re cleared at your one day check up.