The only treatment for cataract is to undergo a microscope surgery to remove it. This is done when a person cannot perform normal activities, even with the use of glasses. For some people, changing glasses, getting stronger bifocals, or using a magnifying lens is helpful enough. Others choose to have cataract surgery. If a cataract is not bothersome, then surgery is usually not necessary. Sometimes there is an additional eye problem that cannot be treated without first having cataract surgery. Cataract microscope surgery consists of removing the lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial lens. A cataract surgeon will discuss the options with the patient, and together they will decide which type of removal and lens replacement will be for the best.

Microscope surgery for a cataract disease involves removing the natural lens of the eye that contains the cataract. The lens can be replaced with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens implant or IOL, or it can be left out and contact lenses, or rarely eyeglasses, can compensate for its absence. The most common replacement is an IOL. The contact lenses or eyeglasses are needed after surgery if an intraocular lens cannot be used. There are two major types of surgery that can be used to remove lenses that have a cataract: extracapsular and intracapsular surgery.