HYATTSVILLE, Md. — Kaiser Permanente ophthalmologists are working to improve vision throughout the Mid-Atlantic, performing approximately 10,000 cataract surgeries every year. More than 24 million Americans over age 40 face cataracts each year – the leading cause of blindness in the world. Cataract surgery is a common but transformative medical procedure that can preserve vision, giving patients back their independence, confidence, and mobility.
“Cataracts are extremely common, but they are also highly treatable,” said Daniel Albertus, MD, a board-certified ophthalmologist with Kaiser Permanente. “Restoring clear vision can change how patients read, drive, and navigate their everyday lives.”
With 25 ophthalmologists in Maryland, Virginia and D.C. specializing in cataract care, Kaiser Permanente has one of the largest and most comprehensive cataract surgery programs in the region. Physicians provide routine and complex surgical options using advanced, patient-centered techniques.
Advanced cataract care techniques
At Kaiser Permanente, ophthalmologists use advanced techniques that help patients heal and get their vision back more quickly with excellent results. Most patients resume normal activities within just a few days. Patients can choose the surgical approach that best fits their individual needs and preferences.
Bilateral, same-day cataract surgery
Cataract surgery can be performed on one or both eyes. Eligible patients may choose to have cataract surgery on both eyes during the same visit, reducing the number of appointments and avoiding a period of visual imbalance. At Kaiser Permanente, patient preference always guides the treatment plan.
Dropless cataract surgery means more simple recovery
For many patients, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications are delivered during surgery, eliminating the need for a complex eyedrop routine during recovery. Some patients may still require eyedrops depending on eye health and surgical complexity.
Minimal or no IV sedation
Many cataract procedures are performed with little or no IV sedation, allowing for a calmer experience and a more comfortable recovery.
A common condition with a highly effective solution
Cataracts are a natural part of aging and the leading cause of reversible vision loss in the United States. While early symptoms may be managed with updated eyewear and brighter lighting, surgery becomes the most effective option when cataracts interfere with daily activities.
Cataract surgery is a brief outpatient procedure, generally lasting about 15 minutes per eye. The cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens selected to match each patient’s vision needs. Once removed, the cataracts do not return. Many patients experience such a significant improvement in their vision that they no longer require corrective glasses or contact lenses.
Coordinated care across the region
Kaiser Permanente’s integrated care model enables ophthalmologists to collaborate closely with primary care physicians and other specialists. This coordination helps reduce unnecessary pre-surgery visits, streamline preoperative evaluations, and ensure a smooth experience from diagnosis through recovery – making the experience easier, more convenient and less stressful for patients.
For more information about cataract care at Kaiser Permanente, visit kp.org.
About Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and nonprofit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.5 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org.
