Cataract describes a range of changes in the lens of the eye which all result in loss of visual acuity. The first sign is often increased glare while driing at night or difficulty reading which is not improved with glasses. The treatment for cataracts is surgical, in a short procedure the cloudy natural lens is removed and a artificial lens is implanted. The procedure is performed as an ambulatory surgery with only local anesthesia and monitored sedation. Aftercare for the procedure includes a regimen of different eyedrops and close follow-up with the surgeon or other eyecare provider.
Depending on the makeup of your particular eye, the implanation of the artificial lens provides the opportunity to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contacts. Sometimes, this requires the use of specialized intraocular lenses such as ReStor or toric lenses. If this is something you are interested in, the surgeon will discuss the options with you and help you to decide whether it is the right solution for you.

More information at the patient information site of the American Academy of Ophthalmology:

www.geteyesmart.org/eyesmart/diseases/cataracts.cfm