Cataract Surgery

Cataract Surgery

Are cataracts interfering with your daily routine? 
Call us at (623) 975-2020 or request an appointment online

Cataracts Are a Leading
Cause of Blindness

Cataracts can dim and darken your vision, making it difficult to drive and perform other daily tasks.

At the Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center in Phoenix, AZ, we offer cataract surgery. This safe, relatively fast, and effective procedure replaces clouded lenses with artificial lenses, restoring your vision and quality of life

50% of blindness worldwide is caused by cataracts, according to the Nobel Vision Group

Learn what makes cataract surgery so beneficial...

Cataract surgery patient

Simple Procedure

Cataract removal can typically be completed in under 15 minutes. Thanks to the latest advancements in technology and surgical techniques, the entire operation is also very safe and very successful.

People driving with glare on windshield

Reduced Glare and Halos

Removing cataracts reduces different issues associated with bright lights and other optical aberrations. That means fewer instances of glare, halos, and double vision after undergoing treatment.

Before and after cataract surgery

Overall Clearer Vision

By replacing your clouded lens with an intraocular lens (IOL), we can help you achieve clearer, crisper vision. After surgery, many individuals have a reduced need for contacts or glasses. Today's premium trifocal lenses can improve vision near, intermediate, and far.

Smiling senior couple

Improved Quality of Life

Following cataract removal, you can enjoy outdoor or nighttime activities that previously put you at risk of accidents. Colors should also appear richer and more vibrant. Altogether, cataract surgery has extremely high rates​ of satisfaction.

The Basics of Cataracts and Cataract Surgery

Dr. Emilio M. Justo is a board-certified ophthalmologist and a surgeon with three decades of experience. He established our practice in 1989, which has since expanded into one of the most trusted cosmetic and ophthalmology institutes in the greater Phoenix, AZ, area. As the practice's Medical Director, he invests in state-of-the-art technology to ensure the best possible surgical outcomes.

“Everyone was very kind and professional” TREATING CATARACTS THROUGHOUT PHOENIX, AZ

1

Frank West

2020

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Everyone was very kind and professional. My mantra is that things are always working out for me, which I say to the universe every day. It was evidenced in that session. Dr. Yates even shared a pun, and puns are some of my favorite lighthearted ways of looking at life. So I was very pleased with the exam. Great team. Thank you, all.

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1

Annie Preston

2020

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I had a very excellent experience. All of the professionals were friendly and engaging. Everyone made me feel like I was their only patient. I am fully satisfied with my cataract surgery.

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Contact a Talented, Trustworthy Team to Safely Remove Your Cataracts

Dr. Emilio Justo and his team can improve your life through safe and effective cataract surgery. Our practice is built on providing personalized, dignified, and quality care to people throughout the greater Phoenix area. Dr. Justo and other members of his team can converse in both English and Spanish, and are able to answer any questions you may have.

Our team of doctors is proud to be affiliated with several professional eye care organizations, including:

  • The American Board of Ophthalmology
  • The National Board of Medical Examiners
  • The American Academy of Ophthalmology

If you have cataracts and are ready to discuss your needs with one of our experienced doctors, request a consultation online. You can also reach our offices by phone:

Sun City West, AZ (623) 975-2020

Sun City, AZ (623) 876-2020

Wickenburg, AZ (928) 684-2020

Are you nervous about cataract removal? 

Cataract Surgery Is Safe and Effective

In addition to being a common surgical procedure, advances in technology have made the removal of cataracts far safer, much less invasive, and more effective. Our Phoenix practice uses computer-guided equipment to reduce human error and the risk of complications, and trifocal lenses to restore near, far, and intermediate vision.

3.8 million cataract procedures are performed in the US every year. Source: iData Research

Amazing, Life-Changing Results

"Since my youngest granddaughter was born, I literally have never seen her clearly. I was never able to see her face completely clear. But, after surgery, I opened my eyes and it just hit me that I could see her really clear! All I could say was, 'Oh my god, Grandma can see you now!' It was amazing. I saw details I never knew she had. It's been a long road, dealing with my vision throughout my life, and I am so grateful that I put my faith in Dr. Justo for such a life-changing surgery." Kimberly Nelson, a satisfied patient

Individualized Cataract Surgery

When you visit our Phoenix area vision centers, we sit down with you and review your vision needs and your personal goals. Using this information, we develop a plan customized entirely to you. This ensures only the best results. You will also learn more about cataract surgery aftercare, with a detailed explanation of steps you can take to facilitate proper healing.

Woman in eye exam

The First Step Creating Your Individualized Treatment Plan

After a thorough examination with Dr. Justo to diagnose your condition and assess your candidacy, you will undergo a pre-operative counseling session with one of our technicians. Questions regarding the scope of your surgery will be clarified at this time, including:

Should I receive an intraocular lens?

Because the eye's natural, clouded lens is removed, almost all individuals receive an IOL. This artificial lens becomes a part of the eye. The IOL focuses light to achieve crisp, clear vision, and can correct farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism.

Which power lens will optimize my vision?

Our practice uses the most sophisticated, accurate technology available to determine which power of IOL is right for you. The length of your eye will be measured at this time, allowing the appropriate lens power to be selected for optimized vision.

Which type of intraocular lens is right for me?

Monofocal lenses correct vision either far away or close up. Multi-focal lenses function much like bifocals, with new trifocal lenses that enhance vision at three distances. Toric lenses correct astigmatism while also improving your overall vision.

Many Factors Impact Treatment Costs

IOL

Monofocal vs. Premium IOL

Standard monofocal implants are usually covered by insurance. Trifocal premium lenses are not always covered, but can dramatically improve near, intermediate, and far vision, reducing your dependence on corrective lenses.

Operating room

Technology Used

Laser cataract surgery regularly produces more accurate results with a reduced recovery time. Keep in mind that not all insurance companies cover this kind of advanced technology used for the treatment of cataracts.

Dr. Justo with patient

Surgeon's Qualifications and Experience

Choosing a new surgeon can reduce the cost of your procedure, but this is primarily because they are less experienced. Selecting a qualified surgeon with years of experience can ensure your safety and results. 

Speak with Our Skilled Doctors About Treatments for Cataracts

How do our patients benefit after surgery? They can expect to confidently drive at night, read even fine print, and stop worrying about misplacing their glasses.

If you live in the greater Phoenix, AZ area and suffer from cataracts, we encourage you to contact our experienced eye doctors online. You can also reach our offices by phone at:

Sun City West, AZ (623) 975-2020

Sun City, AZ (623) 876-2020

Wickenburg, AZ (928) 684-2020

Fast-Focus Cataract Surgery

Our Phoenix, AZ practice performs small-incision surgery, the most common and modern type of cataract removal. It is also known as no-stitch cataract surgery.

How the Surgery Works

A tiny incision is made at the side of the cornea, and a small probe is inserted into the eye. Phacoemulsification, or ultrasound technology, is then used to gently break up the cataract. After that is accomplished, the entire lens is gently vacuumed from the eye.

Benefits of Fast-Focus Surgery

Fast-focus cataract removal is a quick 15-minute outpatient surgery. You can expect to return home and resume many physical activities, such as bending and lifting. Thanks to the use of foldable intraocular implants and small incision techniques, no sutures are required.

Putting Your Comfort First Anesthesia Options

To ensure total comfort during surgery, our practice offers two types of anesthesia: local and peribulbar, the latter of which immobilizes the eye. Both types of anesthesia are supplemented with intravenous sedation to further relax individuals.

Let's watch the procedure in action...

Before Surgery How Cataract Patients Can Prepare

In preparation for cataract removal at our Phoenix, AZ centers, Dr. Justo may ask individuals to stop taking certain medications to decrease the risk of bleeding. He will take measurements of the shape and size of the eye, and the curve of the cornea. This information helps him select the appropriate intraocular lens.

What to Expect During Cataract Surgery

Eye drops

Preparation

Eye drops are administered to dilate the pupils, and a local anesthetic is used to numb the tissue in and around the eyes. 

Cataract surgery incision

Incision

A very small incision is made on the side of the cornea, allowing the insertion of a tiny probe. 

Cataract surgery

Phacoemulsification

Using phacoemulsification, or gentle ultrasound waves, the cataract is broken up into small pieces.

Cataract surgery

Lens Removal

The damaged portion of the lens is carefully suctioned through the probe and removed from the eye. 

Cataract surgery

IOL Placement

After using the state-of-the-art ORA System™ to identify the ideal IOL, Dr. Justo can place the device to restore your vision.

IOL

Refinement

Once your IOL is in place, Dr. Justo will carefully assess the lens to ensure that it is the best choice for your needs.

Five Star Reviews Advanced Cataract Removal in Phoenix, AZ

1

Deb Fiore

2020

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Sanitary place. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Runs on time.

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1

Lisa Wright

2019

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I want to thank Dr. Emilio Justo and his Nursing Director Roxanne for their work to keep me young and seeing well over the years. I would never go to anyone else for vision or cosmetic care.

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Schedule a Consultation for Cataract Surgery  with Our Experienced Eye Surgeons

For more information about treating cataracts and improving your quality of life, contact our eye doctors. You can reach our offices serving Phoenix, AZ by phone:

Sun City West, AZ (623) 975-2020

Sun City, AZ (623) 876-2020

Wickenburg, AZ (928) 684-2020

Cataract Surgery Recovery

Man resting

It's crucial that you rest your eyes in the days after your cataract removal surgery. Dr. Justo uses a compounded "3-in-1" eye drop that contains two anti-inflammatory medications and a latest-generation antibiotic. Typically you will be instructed to begin using the drops four times a day starting three days before cataract surgery. You will continue using these medicated eye drops on a tapering schedule over four weeks.

It is important that you adhere to the instructions provided by our Phoenix, AZ eye doctors to minimize the risk of infection. Though extremely rare, untreated infection can ultimately result in vision loss.

Your vision will begin to clear within the first few days, but may take one to two weeks to achieve full visual potential. Full healing of the eye can take at least six weeks.

Georgia After Cataract Surgery

Georgia Lindsey discusses the way that Dr. Justo helped improve her vision with cataract surgery. She was having trouble doing puzzles, reading, and driving at night. After surgery at our Phoenix, AZ practice, her vision restoration was remarkable.

What to Expect from Your Results

Having realistic expectations is important for appreciating your surgical results. Many individuals who've had their cataracts removed enjoy crisp, clear vision without glasses and contacts, but some will still rely on corrective eyewear for the best vision.

Each patient's outcome is dependent on a number of unique factors, like which type of IOL they choose to receive. Once your vision has stabilized, Dr. Justo will determine if you need glasses. If you do, measurements will be taken for your new prescription. 

Generally, cataract surgery patients enjoy:

  • Sharper vision
  • A decreased dependency on glasses and contacts
  • A reduction of glares and halos
  • Brighter, more vivid colors
Hiker's boots
"I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Justo and his staff at the Arizona Eye Institute. They were extremely professional in everything they did and still made me feel like we were all a big family at the same time. Everybody, Dr. Justo, Dr. Shifrin, Dr. Zambrano, Sherrie, the folks in surgery, the assistants and everybody else were the best that I could hope for. I would give them a gold star and recommend them to anyone who has any kind of eye problems." Robert Wiggins, a satisfied patient

Boost Your Quality of Life

Before cataract surgery
After cataract surgery
The life events our eyesight allows us to fully appreciate are many: looking into a loved one's eyes, watching a grandchild take their first steps, or seeing the sun set over a favorite overlook. Cataracts not only affect a sufferer's vision. On a larger scale, they compromise quality of life. Cataract surgery restores so many aspects of life that are priceless.

Schedule an Eye Examination

Dr. Justo has helped thousands of individuals in the Phoenix, AZ area thanks to fast focus cataract removal. To discuss your vision with a board-certified eye surgeon, request a consultation online. You can reach our offices by phone at:

Sun City West, AZ (623) 975-2020

Sun City, AZ (623) 876-2020

Wickenburg, AZ (928) 684-2020

We Use Advanced Technology
at Every Stage of Surgery

At Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center, we offer a variety of state-of-the-art tools to provide more precise and comfortable removal of cataracts. Our surgeons use the LenSx® Laser, a system which combines lasers and computer imaging for greater safety and more predictable results. We can also use the Optiwave Refractive Analysis (ORA) System to fine-tune the power, placement, and alignment of your IOL for improved vision correction.

The latest laser technology combined with the use of trifocals and other premium artificial lenses results in improved vision quality, reduced risks, and enhanced safety during every stage of cataract surgery.

Operating or procedure room

What Is Optical Coherence Tomography?

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) helps detect conditions that have few early signs, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. The OCT uses light to scan structures in the back of your eye. This creates a detailed image for our doctors to map out the health of your eye and monitor for future changes.

How Else Do We Improve Patient Safety?

Identifying Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

A high-resolution scan of the macula is taken using OCT. This step allows Dr. Justo to check for conditions that might cause complications or compromise vision following surgery.

Mapping the Surface of the Cornea

Computerized corneal topography is used to map the surface and curvature of the cornea. If you have astigmatism, Dr. Justo may recommend a multi-focal implant to address your vision needs.

Measuring the Length of the Eye

The IOL Master system measures the length of the eye to an exacting degree. This information is then used to select the appropriate power of IOL, which ensures optimal eyesight.

“Thank you for a great experience” Safe and Effective Cataract Removal in Phoenix, AZ

1

D Morlock

2019

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I was at the Arizona Eye Institute for an eye examination with Dr. Justo and had the most thorough examination I have ever had. I really appreciated that he listened to my concerns. The front office was very friendly when I came in and I felt very comfortable with Sheryl as she tested my eyes and asked about my history. I even found the cutest pair of glasses to replace my current glasses that are scratched. Thank you for a great experience.

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1

Steven R.

2019

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It is important for me to share my experience with the Arizona Eye Institute because they really went out of their way for me! I have never been greeted so kindly and then given so much time with the doctor/surgeon before! Dr. Justo is clearly very kind and caring. His nurse Roxanne is also an incredible cosmetic nurse who is keeping me young! I would recommend Arizona Eye Institute for everything from vision exams to BOTOX!

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Take the First Step

If you suffer from cataracts and would like to learn more about surgery, contact our practice online. You can reach our offices serving Phoenix, AZ by calling:

Sun City West, AZ (623) 975-2020

Sun City, AZ (623) 876-2020

Wickenburg, AZ (928) 684-2020

Your doctor can combine
cataract surgery with other treatments...

The iStent Device Treating Glaucoma and Cataracts

The team at Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center is excited to announce a new technology that will make managing glaucoma far easier. The iStent® is an excellent option to consider if you have glaucoma and suffer from cataracts.

What Is the iStent?

iStent

The iStent is a trabecular micro-bypass stent that can be placed as part of an individualized treatment plan. The iStent is the smallest medical device to ever be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Relieving Intraocular Pressure

iStent

As tiny as a grain of rice, the iStent is placed at the base of your iris during cataract surgery. The iStent helps to relieve eye pressure by draining excess fluid. Glaucoma patients will not feel or see the iStent when it's in place.

John After Cataract Surgery

John Caudlik underwent cataract surgery with Dr. Justo, which helped him maintain his independence. He was also very impressed with safety protocols at our Phoenix facilities. Dr. Justo and his staff made him comfortable throughout the treatment process.

Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRI) Treating Astigmatism and Cataracts

What Are LRI?

Limbal relaxing incisions (LRI) modify the shape of the cornea. These incisions are placed on the far outer edge of the cornea (the limbus). The incisions result in a rounder cornea that provides clearer, sharper vision while reducing reliance on glasses or contacts.

The Surgical Procedure

LRIs can be completed in a few minutes as part of the cataract removal procedure. There is little to no post-operative discomfort, although patients sometimes experience some mild temporary scratchiness. The cornea and your vision should be stable within one week.

LRI Candidates

Limbal relaxing incisions are ideal for patients whose primary refractive error is astigmatism. While prescription lenses can correct for astigmatism, patients often choose to undergo the LRI procedure in order to free themselves from reliance on glasses or contacts.

Intraocular Lenses for Astigmatism

If you suffer from astigmatism and are undergoing cataract surgery but are not a good candidate for LRI, Dr. Justo may recommend placement of an AcrySof® Toric premium intraocular lens. The right procedure for you can be discussed during the consultation process.

"Dr. Emilio Justo not only was the first to diagnose my cataracts, but he opened my eyes to how laser cataract surgery could truly improve my entire life. I chose the laser surgery, so that Dr. Justo could implant the TORIC lens in both eyes to correct my pre-existing astigmatism. It was the best choice I have ever made for my life. After surgery, I lost 30 pounds as my renewed vision made me excited to get in the game again, and do my best on my local softball league. I am forever grateful for Dr. Justo's personal care and concern, and I am living life again!" Glen Navis, a satisfied patient

Results of Cataract Surgery

Dr. Justo discusses the results of cataract surgery. The staff also explain how they ensure their patients receive the correct implants to improve their vision and reduce their need for glasses. Patients report life-changing results following cataract surgery.

Flexible Financing Is Available

Invest in Your Vision

One of the most common factors discouraging cataract sufferers from the best results possible is their budget. Premium lenses and some technologies, for example, are not covered by insurance but our Phoenix doctors believe they are well worth the investment. 

Managing Out-of-Pocket Costs

Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center offers CareCredit® financing. Short-term, year-long options with zero-interest payments and long-term fixed-payment plans spanning three to five years are available. Enhancing your vision and quality of life is our focus.

Cataract Removal Surgery

Dr. Emilio M. Justo discusses cataract removal surgery. Being over 60 and having issues like diabetes can increase your risk of developing cataracts. Dr. Justo explains how the clouded lens is removed and replaced with an IOL. This implant can restore your vision and eliminate the need for glasses.
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Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center

Ophthalmologist and plastic surgeon Emilio Justo founded Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center in 1989. With locations in Sun City West, Sun City, and Wickenburg, AZ, we help patients from the Phoenix area and beyond improve and maintain their vision through quality eye care. Our doctors are affiliated with prestigious organizations, including:

  • The American Board of Ophthalmology
  • The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery
  • The American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • The Arizona Medical Association
  • The Arizona Ophthalmological Society
  • The Phoenix Ophthalmological Society

To request a consultation, please fill out our online form or call (623) 975-2020.

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Over the years, many people have asked me my secret… The answer is simple – I listen carefully and attentively.
Dr. Emilio Justo

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