Cataract Surgery

Dr. Alex Manguikian combines decades of surgical experience with a personal commitment to helping patients regain clear, comfortable vision.

Do I have cataracts?

Are Cataracts Affecting Your Daily Life?

Cataracts affect more than half of all Americans age 60 and older, causing a progressive, painless loss of vision. You may have cataracts if you are experiencing any of the following:

Blurry or hazy vision
Spots in front of the eyes
Sensitivity to glare
A filmy feeling over the eye
Poor night vision
Double vision
Vision with a yellow tinge
A temporary improvement in near vision

About the procedure

Modern Cataract Surgery Designed for Comfort and Precision

Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery is a minimally invasive procedure performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia. It replaces the cloudy natural lens of the eye with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).
At Fairfax Eye Associates, Dr. Manguikian performs a small-incision, no-stitch technique called phacoemulsification. For patients who choose laser-assisted surgery, a femtosecond laser automates key steps of the procedure that were previously performed by hand, improving precision and consistency. A tiny incision is made in the eye, allowing a small ultrasonic probe to break up the cloudy lens into tiny pieces, which are then gently suctioned out. Because the incision is so small, it heals on its own with only a topical eye drop — no injections or stitches required.
Once the cloudy lens has been removed, the artificial IOL is implanted through the same small incision. This approach significantly reduces recovery time and minimizes the risk of bleeding, scarring, and irritation.

What to expect

Before, During, and After Surgery

Before

Dr. Manguikian will perform a comprehensive pre-operative evaluation to measure your eye and determine the best lens option for your vision goals.

During

Surgery is performed on an outpatient basis at INOVA Fairfax Main Campus Professional Services Building.

After

Most patients without additional eye issues can see clearly within a day. Some swelling and blurriness can last a couple of days and is a normal part of recovery.

Your lens options

Reduce Your Dependence on Glasses

Monofocal, toric, and premium multifocal lenses are all available. Dr. Manguikian will help you choose the right fit for your eyes and lifestyle.

Learn about lens options →

Ready to find out if cataract surgery is right for you?