Office-Based Cataract Surgery

At Washington Eye Physicians and Surgeons, we are proud to offer patients the latest innovation in cataract care: office-based cataract surgery. This advanced option provides the same excellent outcomes as traditional cataract surgery, but with greater convenience, comfort, and efficiency.

Why Choose Office-Based Surgery?

Unlike surgery performed in a hospital or ambulatory surgery center, office-based cataract surgery takes place right here in our state-of-the-art, accredited surgical suite. Designed specifically for ophthalmic procedures, our facility allows you to receive your cataract care in the same building where you see your eye doctor, with the same trusted staff by your side throughout the entire process.

Key benefits include:

• A less stressful, faster and more convenient experience, all in one location.
• Minimal paperwork and no hospital setting.
• No IV, no fasting, and no pre-surgical physical with your primary care provider required.
• Oral sedative instead of IV sedation, making preparation and recovery much simpler.
• Streamlined care, from consultation to surgery to post-op visits, with the same team you already know and trust.

What to Expect During IV-Free Cataract Surgery

Office-based cataract surgery is designed to be simple and comfortable:

• Before surgery, you’ll take an oral sedative that helps you relax in about 15 minutes.
• Your eye will then be numbed so you won’t feel pain or discomfort.
• You’ll remain awake during the procedure, which typically lasts only 10–20 minutes.
• From start to finish, your time in our office is usually about 1.5 hours, compared to three to four hours at an outpatient surgery center.
• You’ll need a driver to take you home, but most patients feel well enough to return to normal activities the very next day.

Premium Lens Options

Just like traditional cataract surgery, patients who choose our office-based approach can still take advantage of premium intraocular lenses (IOLs) to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses. Learn more about your premium lens options.

Insurance and Cost

Office-based cataract surgery is considered a premium service and may involve a small fee, depending on your insurance coverage. Our office-based fee is comparable to the average out-of-pocket costs at other local surgical centers. Additionally, because this approach does not require an anesthesia provider, it often results in added cost savings for you.

Learn More About Cataract Surgery

If you have additional questions about cataract surgery, recovery, or intraocular lenses, visit our Intraocular Lens (IOL) and Cataract Surgery FAQ.