Frequently Asked Questions

Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most commonly performed surgeries in the world, with a success rate above 98%. Over 4 million cataract procedures are performed in the United States each year. At Soni Vision Institute, our board-certified surgeons use the latest surgical techniques and advanced technology to ensure the best possible outcomes.

The procedure itself typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes per eye. You will be at the surgery center for approximately 2 to 3 hours total, which includes preparation, the procedure, and a brief recovery period before you go home. Most patients are surprised by how quick and comfortable the experience is.

Most patients notice significantly improved vision within the first 24 to 48 hours. You can typically return to most daily activities within a few days, including light reading, watching TV, and walking. Full visual stabilization takes 4 to 6 weeks as the eye heals. Your surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor your recovery.

It depends on the lens you choose. A standard monofocal lens provides excellent distance vision but most patients still need reading glasses. Advanced technology lenses — such as multifocal, EDOF, or the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) — are designed to reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses at multiple distances. Your surgeon will discuss realistic expectations for each lens option during your consultation.

Traditional cataract surgery uses a handheld blade for incisions and ultrasound energy to break up the cataract. Laser-assisted cataract surgery uses a femtosecond laser to create precise corneal incisions, a perfectly centered capsulotomy, and to soften the cataract before removal — all guided by advanced 3D imaging. The laser approach is especially beneficial when combined with advanced technology lenses, where precision is critical for optimal visual outcomes. Learn more →

There is no medical requirement to wait until a cataract is “ripe” or fully mature. The best time for surgery is when your cataracts begin to affect your quality of life — when you notice difficulty driving at night, reading, watching TV, or doing the activities you enjoy. Your surgeon will help you determine the right timing based on your symptoms and visual needs.

Advanced technology lenses (also called advanced technology intraocular lenses, or IOLs) go beyond what a standard monofocal lens can do. While a standard lens corrects vision at one distance (usually far), advanced technology lenses can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses at multiple distances. Options include multifocal lenses, Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) lenses, toric lenses for astigmatism, and the Light Adjustable Lens which can be fine-tuned after surgery.

Choosing the right lens depends on your unique eye anatomy, lifestyle, and vision goals. During your consultation, your surgeon will perform detailed diagnostic testing and discuss your daily activities, hobbies, and visual priorities. Together, you will determine whether a monofocal, toric, EDOF, multifocal, or Light Adjustable Lens is the best match for your needs.

The Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) is the only lens implant that can be customized after cataract surgery. Using painless light treatments in the office, your surgeon fine-tunes the lens to your exact prescription once your eye has healed. It is ideal for patients who want the most precise visual outcome possible, especially those with complex prescriptions or prior LASIK or PRK. Learn more →

Both are designed to reduce dependence on glasses, but they work differently. A multifocal lens splits light into distinct focal points for near, intermediate, and distance — providing the broadest range of glasses-free vision but with a slightly higher chance of halos at night. An EDOF lens like the Clareon Vivity stretches a single focal point to create a continuous range from distance through intermediate, with excellent contrast sensitivity and fewer visual side effects, though near reading may still benefit from occasional readers. Your surgeon will recommend the best match based on your visual goals and lifestyle.

Yes. A toric lens is specifically designed to correct astigmatism at the same time as cataract removal. If left uncorrected, astigmatism can cause blurry or distorted vision even after a successful cataract procedure. Toric lenses are precisely aligned during surgery to neutralize the astigmatism, giving patients significantly sharper distance vision without glasses. They can also be combined with multifocal or EDOF technology for an even broader range of vision.

Lens implants are designed to last a lifetime. Once placed inside the eye, the lens does not wear out, degrade, or need to be replaced under normal circumstances. The materials used in modern IOLs are biocompatible and extremely durable. In rare cases, a secondary procedure may be needed to address clouding of the capsule behind the lens (posterior capsule opacification), which is a quick, painless laser treatment done in the office.

Good LASIK candidates are typically 18 or older with a stable prescription for at least one year, healthy corneas of adequate thickness, and no significant eye diseases. A comprehensive evaluation including corneal mapping, pupil measurements, and tear film assessment will determine your candidacy. If LASIK is not ideal for you, alternatives like PRK, EVO ICL, or refractive lens exchange may be excellent options.

Both LASIK and PRK reshape the cornea with an excimer laser to correct vision, and both achieve excellent long-term results. The difference is in how the corneal surface is prepared. LASIK creates a thin flap for faster recovery (most patients see clearly the next day), while PRK removes the surface layer of the cornea, which regenerates over several days. PRK is often recommended for patients with thinner corneas or those in contact sports and military careers. Learn more about PRK →

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) uses the same surgical technique as cataract surgery — replacing the eye’s natural lens with an advanced technology implant — but is performed before cataracts develop. It is ideal for patients over 45 who want to eliminate dependence on glasses and are not good LASIK candidates, especially those with presbyopia or high prescriptions. An added benefit: patients who have RLE will never develop cataracts. Learn more →

The EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is a thin, biocompatible lens placed inside the eye in front of the natural lens to correct moderate to severe nearsightedness. Unlike LASIK, it does not permanently alter the cornea and is fully reversible. It is an excellent option for patients who are not LASIK candidates due to thin corneas, high prescriptions, or dry eyes. The procedure takes about 15 minutes per eye with rapid visual recovery. Learn more →

Yes. LASIK is highly effective at correcting astigmatism, along with nearsightedness and farsightedness. The excimer laser precisely reshapes the cornea to correct the irregular curvature that causes astigmatism. Most patients with moderate astigmatism achieve excellent results with LASIK. For patients undergoing cataract surgery, a toric lens implant can correct astigmatism at the same time.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, usually due to elevated pressure inside the eye. It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. While glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed to prevent further vision loss. Treatment options include prescription eye drops, laser therapy (SLT), and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), which can often be combined with cataract surgery. Learn more →

Yes, and this is one of the most significant advances in ophthalmology in recent years. MIGS (micro-invasive glaucoma surgery) procedures can be performed during cataract surgery through the same small incision, with no additional recovery time. This combined approach can lower eye pressure while improving vision — addressing two conditions in a single procedure. Your surgeon will determine if you are a candidate for combined surgery during your evaluation.

Open-angle glaucoma — the most common type — typically has no early symptoms. Vision loss begins with peripheral (side) vision and progresses so gradually that many patients do not notice until significant damage has occurred. This is why glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight.” Regular comprehensive eye exams are the only reliable way to detect glaucoma early, especially if you have risk factors such as family history, age over 60, or African or Hispanic heritage.

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a safe, effective in-office laser procedure that lowers eye pressure by improving the eye’s natural drainage system. The treatment takes about 5 minutes and is painless. SLT can be used as a first-line treatment for glaucoma or in addition to eye drops. Results typically last 2 to 5 years, and the procedure can be safely repeated if needed. Learn more →

Standard cataract surgery is typically covered by Medicare and most commercial insurance plans, including the facility fee, surgeon fee, and a basic monofocal lens. Advanced technology lenses and laser-assisted cataract surgery involve an additional out-of-pocket investment, which varies by lens type. Our team will review your specific insurance benefits and provide a clear breakdown of costs during your consultation.

Yes. Soni Vision Institute offers financing through Alphaeon Credit, which provides flexible monthly payment plans for advanced technology lenses, laser cataract surgery upgrades, LASIK, PRK, EVO ICL, and refractive lens exchange. Many patients find that monthly payments make the investment in visual freedom very manageable. Our team can walk you through your options during your consultation.

LASIK is considered an elective procedure and is not covered by insurance. The cost varies based on the technology used and the complexity of your prescription. During your consultation, our team will provide a clear, transparent quote with no hidden fees. Financing through Alphaeon Credit is available with convenient monthly payment options. Many patients find that eliminating the ongoing cost of glasses and contacts makes LASIK a smart long-term investment.

Yes. Glaucoma is a medical condition, so diagnostic testing, monitoring, prescription eye drops, SLT laser treatment, and surgical interventions (including MIGS) are generally covered by Medicare and most commercial insurance plans. Your specific coverage will depend on your plan. Our billing team will verify your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs before treatment.

Soni Vision Institute is located at 27700 Northwest Freeway (US-290), Suite 390, Cypress, TX 77433. We serve patients throughout Northwest Houston, Cypress, Jersey Village, Katy, Tomball, Spring, and the surrounding communities. Our office is conveniently located along the 290 corridor with easy access and free parking. Get directions →

Most patients do not need a referral and are welcome to schedule a consultation directly by calling our office at (346) 818-6780 or by booking online. However, some insurance plans do require a referral from your primary care doctor or optometrist — we recommend checking with your insurance provider if you are unsure. If you have been referred by another physician, please bring any relevant records or test results to your appointment. We also have a dedicated referral process for referring doctors.

Your consultation will include a comprehensive eye exam with advanced diagnostic testing, a detailed discussion of your vision concerns and goals, and a one-on-one conversation with your surgeon about your treatment options. You will have time to ask questions and understand the benefits, risks, and costs of each approach. Plan for approximately a few hours. We recommend bringing sunglasses, as your pupils may be dilated during the exam.

Soni Vision Institute is led by two board-certified ophthalmologists: Dr. Ruhi Soni, the founder of the practice, who trained at Baylor College of Medicine and specializes in cataract surgery and advanced technology lenses; and Dr. Nikitha Reddy, who completed her residency at UT Southwestern and a fellowship in glaucoma and anterior segment surgery at the University of Toronto. Together, they offer patients a uniquely comprehensive range of surgical expertise.