

Cataract Surgery Specialist

Russell Levine, MD -  - Comprehensive Ophthalmologist

Russell Levine, MD


Every year, about 3 million Americans undergo cataract surgery. This safe, effective procedure can preserve your vision and improve your quality of life. At Russell Micah Levine, MD in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan, ophthalmologist Russell Levine, MD, specializes in cataract surgery using multifocal, toric, and premium intraocular lenses. To schedule your appointment, call the New York City office or book online today.

Cataract Surgery Q&A

What is a cataract?

A cataract is a common eye-related health problem that causes the clear lens of your cloudy lens with a brand new clear one. Cataracts develop slowly over an extended period of time. As the cataract matures or grows, it causes blurry vision, making it difficult to read, drive, or see objects in the distance clearly.

What is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is an operation used to replace –– a cloudy lens. During cataract surgery, Dr. Levine removes the damaged lens of your eye and replaces it with an artificial lens. 

Cataract surgery is Dr. Levine’s passion. He works closely with each of his patients, giving them his full attention and taking into account any special needs one might have. Following a comprehensive eye exam and a review of their ocular health history, he develops an individualized approach to care, determining an optimal surgical plan.

How does cataract surgery work?

Dr. Levine performs cataract surgery at Montefiore Nyack Hospital, and soon NYU Langone Medical Center as an ambulatory (outpatient) procedure. 

Prior to surgery in the pre-operative area, Dr. Levine dilates your pupil using eye drops. Next, he administers a local anesthetic to numb the area while an anesthesiologist administers a sedative to help you relax. After the anesthesia takes effect, he carefully makes an incision in your eye and inserts a small probe into the lens near the cataract.

The probe emits soundwaves that break up the cataract. A suction device on the end of the probe then removes the lens pieces. Dr. Levine leaves the back surface of your natural lens intact to support your artificial lens. After placing the artificial lens, he closes the incision, creating a water-tight seal. The entire cataract surgery usually lasts about 15 minutes, but some complex cases may take over an hour.

Following your operation, you’ll need a friend or family member to drive you home. 

Are there different types of artificial lenses?

Yes. Dr. Levine offers several types of artificial lenses, including:

Multifocal lenses

Multifocal artificial lenses are like bifocals or progressive lenses. Different areas of the lens have different focusing strengths, making them ideal for people who wish to be able to focus at near and far distances without needing to switch between reading and distance glasses.

Toric intraocular lenses

If you have astigmatism, Dr. Levine might recommend a toric intraocular lens. With astigmatism, the front of your eye isn’t completely round. This affects the way that light bounces off your eye and causes blurry vision. Sometimes, a toric lens is required to achieve crystal-clear vision without the need for spectacles or glasses.

Monofocal lenses

Dr. Levine also offers monofocal lenses, which have a single fixed focus strength. These lenses are the most commonly used lenses for cataract surgery, and are almost always fully covered by most medical insurances. No matter which lens you choose, Dr. Levine will make that you understand all of your options and he will help you make the choice that best fits your needs and desires.

What is recovery like following cataract surgery?

Following cataract surgery, Dr. Levine sends you home with a list of recovery instructions. In the first few days after your operation, it’s normal to experience blurry vision. You might also notice that colors appear brighter and your eyes may feel itchy and slightly scratchy.

Make sure to attend all of your follow-up appointments and take your medications as prescribed. Postoperative care is free of charge for 90 days and covered by all major insurance providers. 

To schedule a cataract surgery consultation at Russell Micah Levine, MD, call the office or book a consultation online today.