What Is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is a highly effective procedure that restores clear, crisp vision in patients who have developed cataracts. This procedure quickly removes a clouded natural eye lens and replaces it with a clear artificial lens. Cataracts typically develop with age, causing blurry vision, glare, or trouble seeing at night. Surgery is the only way to remove a cataract, and today’s techniques are safer and more precise than ever.

See Clearly, Live Fully With Cataract Surgery in St. Paul

Cataract eye surgery in St. Paul at Chu Vision Institute is a safe outpatient procedure, typically taking less than 30 minutes. You’ll be awake during the surgery, but your eye will be numbed with special eye drops or a gentle injection around the eye. You will be given medication to help you relax. 

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Your Cataract Treatment, Step by Step What to Expect

  • Your surgeon will use a high-powered microscope to view your eye in detail.
  • Tiny incisions will be made at the edge of your cornea to access the cloudy lens.
  • Using precise, micro-sized instruments, your surgeon will gently remove the damaged natural lens.
  • A clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL) will then be put in place, replacing the natural lens.
  • Most incisions are self-sealing and will not require stitches. At the end of the surgery, a protective shield will be placed over your eye to guard against accidental contact while it heals, which takes very little time.
  • After a short recovery period—usually 15 to 30 minutes—you’ll be able to return home with instructions for aftercare and a follow-up appointment with our St. Paul team.
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Healing Made Simple Your Recovery Timeline

Cataract surgery recovery is typically quick and easy. Most patients experience improved vision within 24–48 hours, with full results developing over a few weeks. Aftercare includes:

  • Using prescribed eye drops
  • Wearing an eye shield during sleep for a few nights
  • Avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a short period
  • Attending follow-up visits to monitor healing

Our St. Paul team will guide you to ensure a smooth and uneventful recovery.

What Our Patients Are Saying

I was diagnosed with a cataract in my left eye in February 2005 eye doctor set me up with Dr Chu who did the surgery. I had worn glasses since the 50’s after surgery I no ...

Brenda H.

PRK was the best decision I have ever done. I wouldn’t have explored surgery options with any other clinic or surgeon. Eye surgery is nerve racking, but Dr Chu and his tea...

Ciarra

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.

Dr. Chu is an excellent doctor. I felt confident in his knowledge and ability as a surgeon. He is a very kind and caring person and felt very comfortable with him. His staff is ...

Carol K.

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.

Staff are friendly, waiting time is not long. The clinic is run like a well oiled machine!

Barb H.

My vision is fantastic! Amazing stuff!

Darcie N.

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.

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

Very thorough, professional, and uplifting

Carolyn S.

The teamwork at the Chu Vision Institute is fantastic. They are careful to answer one's questions, diligent about prepping for surgery, and of course the surgeons are top notch....

Jeffrey S.

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.

I had LASIK done at Chu Vision today. I was so impressed with every step of the process. They have clearly thought of each step of the client experience. I am confident in the f...

Kielyn S.

I have been going to Chu Vision for annual eye appointments for eight years.  All annual appointments were done by caring professionals.   This year, the need for cata...

Linda U.

Chu Vision was recommended to me by a friend and I could not be happier with the facility and staff. Everyone was always so friendly, you can tell they all really enjoy what the...

Mara M.

Light tunable cataract surgery lens replacement. Satisfied with the results. Can see great at long distance and up close with glasses. Professionally run organization. Everyone ...

Rick M.

I had the EVO ICL procedure done and am so happy with the results!! It’s crazy to think I won’t need contacts or glasses anymore, and waking up each morning being ab...

Andrea E.

This was by far the best eye vision clinic I have ever been to.  They are so polite and caring.  Dr. Chu absolutely knows what he is doing and so personable.   Gr...

JoEllen S.

Absolute the Cadillac of any business I have been a part of. Excellent communication, empathic nurses and techs, excellent doctors, and best of all- my vision! I am blown away b...

Becky H.

If every health care facility operated as seamlessly and as patient oriented as this one, we would have truly compassionate, passionate and professional services that rival none...

Anonymous

I had a refractive lens exchange (RLE) procedure with Chu nearly 2 years ago, and I still think about how much it has improved my day-to-day life nearly every day! I had extreme...

Karla R.

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...

Sherri R.

I cannot say enough GREAT things about Dr. Chu and the ENTIRE staff at Chu Vision!

I had the Implantable Contact Lens(ICL) procedure done at Chu Vision Institute, and I cannot say enough GREAT things about Dr. Chu and the ENTIRE staff at Chu Vision! I ha...

Jackie O.

I'm taking lessons for my own business in how thorough they are.

I am so impressed with this clinic from start to finish. They are a well-oiled machine, and have clearly considered the patient experience all the way through. I felt comfortabl...

Kielyn S.

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.

My life has been forever changed

I walked into Chu Vision and my life has been forever changed. I had been wearing glasses for almost 25years and after doing my research chose Dr. Chu for my surgery. I cannot c...

Bridget V.
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Sharper Vision, Brighter Days Life After Surgery

With modern cataract surgery at Chu Vision Institute, you can expect:

  • Sharper vision and brighter colors
  • Reduced glare and halos at night
  • Improved independence from glasses, depending on the type of lens you choose
  • A quick return to daily activities with minimal downtime

We tailor the procedure to match your visual needs and your personal preferences.

Wondering If You’re a Candidate?

You may be a candidate for cataract surgery in St. Paul if you:

  • Have been diagnosed with cataracts that affect your ability to see clearly, drive, or enjoy natural vision.
  • Notice vision changes like blurriness, glare, or duller colors.
  • Have trouble reading, driving, or seeing at night
  • You are interested in advanced IOL options to enjoy reduced dependence on glasses.

Our doctors will perform a comprehensive evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best treatment plan.

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Why Patients Trust Our Top Cataract Surgeons in St. Paul

When it comes to your vision, experience and precision matter. At Chu Vision Institute in our St. Paul location, you can expect:

  • Board-certified cataract surgeons with extensive expertise
  • Leading-edge laser and imaging technology
  • Personalized treatment plans tailored to your lifestyle
  • Compassionate care in a comfortable, caring environment

We’re committed to helping you enjoy clearer, vibrant vision by undergoing advanced cataract surgery under the care of top cataract specialists serving St. Paul.

Schedule Your Consultation Today for Cataract Removal Surgery in St. Paul

If cataracts are affecting your quality of life, we can help. Schedule a cataract evaluation at Chu Vision Institute in St. Paul and take the first step toward brighter, clearer vision.

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