Room-wide image of a patient having LASIK eye surgery performed by her ophthalmologist.

Is IntraLase™ FS the Best Option for Your LASIK Surgery?

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LASIK surgery has transformed vision care by offering a long-lasting solution for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. One of the most advanced LASIK technologies is IntraLase™ FS, a bladeless method for creating the corneal flap. 

At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser, Dr. Dennis Maehara, who founded the clinic over 30 years ago, and his son, Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained Anterior Segment-Glaucoma Specialist, provide expert care. Dr. Jeffrey Maehara’s advanced training in preventive and integrative medicine ensures that patients receive the most effective and personalized LASIK options, including IntraLase. But is this bladeless technology the best choice for your LASIK surgery?

What is IntraLase™ FS?

IntraLase FS is a revolutionary technology used in LASIK procedures to create a corneal flap with a laser instead of the traditional blade. This method is more precise and offers several advantages over older techniques. The laser is incredibly accurate, leading to a more customized procedure and potentially better visual outcomes.

The Benefits of IntraLase for LASIK Surgery

IntraLase FS is often the preferred choice for those seeking LASIK surgery because of its precision and safety. Some key benefits include:

  • Precision: The laser creates a more accurate corneal flap, tailored to each patient’s unique eye shape, which can improve the overall results.
  • Safety: Because there’s no blade involved, the risk of complications is significantly reduced.
  • Faster Recovery: IntraLase’s precision helps reduce the risk of complications like flap dislocation, leading to a quicker recovery time.
  • Improved Results: Studies show that patients who undergo LASIK with IntraLase FS often achieve better visual outcomes compared to those using traditional methods.

Who Can Benefit from IntraLase?

IntraLase FS can be especially beneficial for individuals who may not be ideal candidates for traditional LASIK due to specific eye characteristics. For example:

  • Those with thin corneas who need extra precision to ensure a safe and effective flap creation
  • People with higher prescriptions who require more accuracy for optimal results
  • Patients with irregular corneal shapes who may benefit from the customized, bladeless approach of IntraLase

IntraLase provides a solution for a wider range of patients, offering greater precision and safety. Its ability to cater to various eye conditions makes it a highly versatile option for LASIK candidates, providing a more tailored approach to vision correction. If you’re concerned about whether your eyes are suitable for LASIK, IntraLase could be the key to achieving the best possible outcome.

Explore the Benefits of IntraLase LASIK in Honolulu, HI

If you’re considering LASIK surgery and want to know if IntraLase is the best option for you, the first step is scheduling a consultation with an experienced professional. 

The team at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser in Honolulu is committed to providing personalized guidance through every stage of your LASIK experience, helping you choose the right option for your vision. Call us today at 808-955-3937 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision.

Close up of a patient's cornea fully healed after receiving a corneal transplant

Corneal Healing After Transplant Surgery

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A cornea transplant can restore clear vision and relieve discomfort when the natural cornea becomes damaged or diseased. Healing properly after surgery is key to long-term success and avoiding complications. 

At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser in Honolulu, patients benefit from decades of trusted care. Dr. Jeffrey Maehara is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained Anterior Segment–Glaucoma Specialist, with advanced training in corneal transplants, LASIK, and cataract procedures. He brings experience from Tulane Medical School and leadership in surgical innovation across Hawaii. 

Knowing what to expect during recovery can help patients feel more prepared and confident as they recover and return to their daily lives.

What to Expect in the Healing Timeline

Healing from a cornea transplant typically takes several weeks to months. During the first few days after surgery, patients may experience:

  • Mild discomfort or irritation
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurry or fluctuating vision

It is normal for vision to take time to stabilize. In some cases, vision may continue to improve for up to a year following the procedure. Regular follow-up visits are crucial to monitor progress and adjust medications as needed.

Supporting Healthy Corneal Healing

Healing well after a cornea transplant begins with closely following your post-surgery instructions. Using your prescribed eye drops on schedule helps prevent infection and keeps inflammation down, which are both important for a smooth recovery. Be gentle with your eye and avoid rubbing or applying pressure to it, even if it feels itchy or irritated.

If your doctor recommends it, wearing an eye shield while you sleep can help protect your eye from accidental bumps. It’s also a good idea to hold off on strenuous physical activity and avoid swimming until your surgeon says it’s safe.

Protecting your eyes from things like wind, dust, and smoke can also play a big role in how well you heal. When you’re outside, wearing sunglasses helps reduce sensitivity to light and shields your eyes from irritants while they recover.

When to Contact Your Eye Surgeon

While mild symptoms are expected, certain signs may indicate a complication. Contact the surgeon promptly if any of the following occur:

  • Severe or increasing eye pain
  • Sudden vision loss or decrease
  • Redness that worsens over time
  • Swelling around the eye
  • Discharge or unusual fluid

Prompt attention to these symptoms helps prevent further damage and supports long-term transplant success.

Corneal Transplant Recovery in Honolulu, HI

Healing after a cornea transplant takes time, but with the right care and guidance, most patients see real improvements in both vision and comfort. Support, monitoring, and personalized treatment plans all help protect your results for the long term.

If you are preparing for a cornea transplant or currently recovering and have questions, scheduling a consultation is an important next step. To speak with a team member, contact us at 808-955-3937. Getting expert care early can make a lasting difference in how well your eye heals and how soon you feel like yourself again.

Older man holding a surfboard and walking on the beach after getting PRK treatment for his active lifestyle

Why More Patients Are Choosing PRK for Active Lifestyles

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In Honolulu, where outdoor living is part of daily life, many residents are choosing PRK as a long-term solution for clear, reliable vision. From ocean sports to mountain trails, active individuals find that PRK offers lasting freedom from glasses and contacts. 

Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser was founded over 30 years ago by Dr. Dennis Maehara and is now led by his son, Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist. With advanced training in both ophthalmology and regenerative medicine, Dr. Maehara offers expert care that makes PRK a trusted choice for individuals with active lifestyles.

What is PRK?

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a proven laser procedure that adjusts the surface of the cornea to correct common vision issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve creating a flap in the cornea, making it an ideal option for individuals with thin corneas or concerns about eye trauma during high-impact activities.

This procedure has been FDA-approved for decades and remains a safe and effective alternative to LASIK for many patients.

Key Benefits of PRK for Active Individuals

People who lead highly active lives often face challenges with glasses fogging up or contacts drying out. PRK offers a permanent solution that integrates seamlessly into a lifestyle characterized by motion and exposure to the elements.

Benefits of PRK include:

  • No corneal flap, reducing the risk of flap-related complications during contact sports or outdoor activities
  • Better long-term stability for individuals who may be prone to eye injuries
  • Lower risk of post-surgery dry eye compared to LASIK
  • Freedom from corrective lenses, improving convenience during exercise, swimming, or travel

These advantages make PRK especially appealing for athletes, military personnel, and those who spend significant time in water or wind.

Addressing Recovery Concerns

One of the main differences between PRK and LASIK is the recovery period. PRK typically involves a longer healing process, with visual improvement occurring gradually over several days to weeks. However, the final results are comparable to LASIK in terms of clarity and long-term vision quality.

With proper care, most patients return to normal activities within a week. Pain and discomfort can be managed with prescribed medications and lubricating eye drops. Follow-up visits ensure healing is on track and that vision continues to improve.

Discover Clearer Vision with PRK in Honolulu, HI

If you live in Honolulu and want lasting freedom from glasses or contacts, PRK can give you the clear, reliable vision to match your active lifestyle. Whether you’re on the beach, in the ocean, or out on the trails, this procedure offers the stability and comfort many people need.

To find out if PRK is right for you, schedule a consultation with a trusted eye care specialist today. Call 808-955-3937 to take the next step toward clearer vision and greater confidence.

Close up of a woman's eye with a laser being used to perform LASIK eye surgery on her

Bladeless LASIK vs. Traditional LASIK: What’s the Difference?

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Many people turn to LASIK as a dependable way to sharpen their vision and move away from glasses or contact lenses. At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser, patients benefit from over 30 years of experience led by Dr. Dennis Maehara and his son, Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained anterior segment and glaucoma specialist. Dr. Jeffrey Maehara also brings expertise in preventive and integrative medicine. 

As technology has advanced, bladeless LASIK has become a more precise and comfortable alternative to traditional methods. Learning how these options compare can guide you toward the best choice for your vision.

What is Traditional LASIK?

Traditional LASIK uses a small mechanical blade, called a microkeratome, to create a flap in the cornea. This flap is lifted so the surgeon can reshape the underlying corneal tissue with a laser, correcting common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

While effective, the blade introduces more variation and may increase the risk of certain complications or prolong recovery time for some patients.

What is Bladeless LASIK?

Bladeless LASIK, or all-laser LASIK, replaces the blade with a femtosecond laser to create the corneal flap. At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser in Honolulu, we use the advanced IntraLase™ FS laser in combination with the Allegretto Wave® laser system to deliver outstanding precision and speed.

This combination offers key benefits:

  • Greater safety through bladeless precision
  • Customization based on your unique eye structure
  • Faster healing and improved comfort
  • More consistent outcomes with reduced flap-related risks

Comparing the Two Techniques

Both traditional and bladeless LASIK offer excellent results, but there are some key differences:

  • Technology used: Traditional relies on a blade; bladeless uses lasers exclusively
  • Precision: Bladeless offers more consistent flap creation
  • Comfort: Patients often report greater comfort with bladeless procedures
  • Recovery: Bladeless LASIK may offer faster visual recovery for some patients

Is Bladeless LASIK Right for You?

If you are considering laser LASIK and want the most advanced technology available, bladeless LASIK may be the ideal solution. This method offers a gentler and more precise experience, which can be reassuring if you are uneasy about the use of a blade. Along with greater comfort, bladeless LASIK often provides improved accuracy and faster recovery.

At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser, excellent outcomes begin with a careful and personalized evaluation. Every LASIK candidate receives a thorough screening to determine if the procedure suits their vision needs. Safety is always our highest priority.

We also understand the importance of value. Our pricing is highly competitive, and we provide physician-only care. From consultation to post-operative visits, Dr. Maehara handles each stage of your treatment, ensuring consistent and expert care.

Setting the Standard for LASIK in Honolulu, HI

If you are considering laser LASIK and want a safe, effective, bladeless option, we invite you to schedule a consultation. Discover how Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser in Honolulu, HI, can help you achieve clearer vision with advanced care you can trust at 808-955-3937.

Close up of a older woman in need of Xeomin to tighten the skin around her eyes

Cosmetic and Functional Benefits of Xeomin for Eye Conditions

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If you’ve noticed frequent eye twitching, eyelid discomfort, or are bothered by frown lines and drooping skin, you’re not alone. These concerns impact both comfort and confidence. Xeomin offers a modern treatment that addresses cosmetic and functional issues for lasting relief and a refreshed look. 

Dr. Dennis Maehara founded Maehara Eye Clinic over 30 years ago, earning a strong reputation in Honolulu. His son, Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist who also practices anti-aging and regenerative medicine. With advanced expertise and a personalized approach, the Maehara team provides comprehensive care for your eye health and appearance.

What Is Xeomin?

Xeomin is an FDA-approved injectable treatment made from botulinum toxin type A. Similar to Botox, it works by temporarily relaxing targeted muscles. However, Xeomin has a purified formulation that contains no additives, which may reduce the risk of developing resistance over time.

This makes it a trusted choice for both aesthetic enhancements and medical eye conditions.

Functional Benefits of Xeomin for Eye Health

Beyond cosmetic improvements, Xeomin is widely used in ophthalmology for treating various eye conditions caused by muscle overactivity or tension. Some of the most common include:

  • Blepharospasm (uncontrollable blinking or eyelid twitching)
  • Strabismus (eye misalignment)
  • Facial spasms affecting the eye area

By relaxing the muscles responsible for these conditions, Xeomin helps reduce discomfort, improve visual function, and enhance overall quality of life.

Aesthetic Advantages of Xeomin

The eyes are one of the first areas to show signs of aging. Whether it’s from sun exposure, frequent squinting, or natural changes in skin elasticity, many people experience:

  • Crow’s feet
  • Frown lines between the eyebrows
  • Drooping eyelids that create a tired appearance

Xeomin can soften these lines and lift the eye area slightly, creating a more alert and youthful look without surgery. Because its formula lacks additives, it also tends to be well-tolerated by patients sensitive to other injectables.

What to Expect from Treatment

Xeomin treatment is a quick and minimally invasive procedure that is usually completed in-office with little to no downtime. Most patients find the injection process to be relatively comfortable, with only minor discomfort. The initial effects of the treatment typically begin to appear within three to four days, and results continue to improve over the following week. 

On average, the benefits of Xeomin last between three to four months. Patients often appreciate that it provides a refreshed and natural look, avoiding the overly tight or “frozen” appearance sometimes associated with other treatments.

A Closer Look at Xeomin Therapy in Honolulu, HI

Whether you’re dealing with persistent twitching or looking to smooth fine lines, this treatment may be the solution you’ve been searching for. The Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser team is ready to walk you through every step of the process and provide expert care tailored to your needs.

To speak with a team member or to schedule your consultation, call us at 808-955-3937.

Close up of a woman's eye with cornea thinning, in need of a transplant or DSAEK partial cornea transplant

How DSAEK Improves Vision Without Full Corneal Transplantation

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If you’re exploring options for a corneal transplant, you may be surprised to learn that full transplantation isn’t always necessary. At Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser in Honolulu, we offer DSAEK, an advanced procedure that restores vision without needing a full corneal transplant. Dr. Dennis Maehara founded the clinic over 30 years ago, and his son, Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, now leads with specialized training in anterior segment and glaucoma surgery. Board-certified and fellowship-trained, Dr. Maehara also brings a preventive approach through his expertise in anti-aging and regenerative medicine. 

With DSAEK, patients can experience clearer vision, a faster recovery, and fewer complications—making it a life-changing solution for many corneal conditions.

What is DSAEK?

DSAEK stands for Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty. It involves replacing only the innermost, damaged layer of the cornea—called the endothelium—rather than the entire cornea.

In a traditional full corneal transplant, the entire thickness of the cornea is removed and replaced. In contrast, DSAEK involves removing just the unhealthy endothelial layer and inserting a thin donor tissue layer. This makes the procedure less invasive and allows for faster healing.

The DSAEK Procedure

DSAEK is typically performed as an outpatient procedure and takes less than an hour. The surgeon removes the damaged endothelial layer through a small incision and replaces it with a thin layer of healthy donor tissue. An air bubble is used to hold the graft in place. Recovery is generally smooth, with most patients noticing improved vision within a few weeks.

Benefits of DSAEK

Many Honolulu patients choose DSAEK because of its advantages over traditional corneal transplants. Some of the key benefits include:

  • Faster visual recovery compared to full-thickness corneal surgery
  • Smaller surgical entry point, means less trauma and reduced risk of post-op issues
  • Better structural integrity of the eye
  • Lower chance of tissue rejection
  • Improved comfort and cosmetic appearance of the eye

Patients often notice clearer, sharper vision within weeks, rather than the months it may take to recover from a full corneal transplant.

Who is a Candidate for DSAEK?

DSAEK is typically recommended for patients with diseases affecting the corneal endothelium. Common conditions include:

  • Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy
  • Corneal edema following cataract surgery
  • Certain types of corneal damage from injury or disease

If you are experiencing blurred vision, light sensitivity, or swelling in the cornea, DSAEK may be a treatment worth exploring. Every eye is different, so a consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist is the best way to determine if you’re a candidate.

Exploring Vision Correction Options in Honolulu, HI

If you’re struggling with vision changes and considering corneal transplant options, DSAEK might be the solution you need. The team at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser has extensive experience helping patients regain clear vision with modern, minimally invasive procedures.

Contact us today at 808-955-3937 to schedule your consultation and learn how DSAEK can improve your sight and confidence without needing a full corneal transplant.

What Eye Conditions Can Medical Marijuana Assist With?

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Medical marijuanaMedical marijuana has been growing in popularity for treating a variety of physical and mental health concerns. Part of what makes it so beneficial for treatment is its versatility. Medical marijuana can be used to alleviate a range of symptoms, including anxiety, pain and discomfort, difficulty eating, and more.

Medical marijuana is legal in Hawaii with a State 329 Medical Marijuana license card. Any patient interested in using medical marijuana must have a 329 medical card. Thankfully, Jeffrey Maehara, MD, can perform consultations and complete applications for a medical marijuana card in Honolulu, HI.

If you’re interested in utilizing medical marijuana for an eye condition, keep reading to learn more about the qualifying conditions and how to apply for a license.

What Eye Conditions Can Medical Marijuana Assist in Treating?

Medical marijuana can be used to treat eye conditions that cause intraocular pressure (IOP), such as glaucoma, by reducing pressure and increasing comfort.

A medical marijuana license may also be granted to patients with cancer, lupus, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and mental health conditions such as PTSD and anxiety.

Medical marijuana is frequently used for these conditions to assist with nausea, pain, and appetite. However, it can also be useful for those who have debilitating medical conditions such as seizures and muscle spasms.

How to Register for a State 329 Medical Marijuana License

If you are interested in the State 329 Medical Marijuana license, the first step is to check to see if your condition or symptoms are on the list of qualifying medical conditions. Then, you can fill out and turn in your application. This may involve supplying medical records, doctor’s notes, and other documentation. Once the application has been submitted, Dr. Maehara will schedule a consultation with you. During this time, he’ll discuss your condition with you and determine if medical marijuana would be beneficial. If so, he can complete your application and submit it to the State for final approval. Your card should arrive in the mail shortly after.

Apply for a Medical Marijuana License Today

Learn more about the benefits of medical marijuana as well as how to apply for a license by contacting Jeffrey Maehard in Honolulu, HI. Call our office today at 808-955-3937 or request a consultation online.

Beautiful female eye in scanning circle closeup and eyechart.

What you should know about LASIK

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If you have been considering LASIK surgery to help reduce or remove the need for wearing glasses or contacts, there are several things you should know. Read on for eight things you should know about LASIK.

  1. Your eyes must be healthy to undergo LASIK surgery. If you have severe dry eye syndrome, conjunctivitis or pink eye, or any type of eye injury where you are still recovering, you will need to wait until those conditions are resolved before you can undergo LASIK.
  2. If you have cataracts or uncontrolled glaucoma, you may not be a candidate for LASIK.
  3. You must be in good health to be considered for LASIK. Uncontrolled degenerative conditions or autoimmune diseases may prevent you from having LASIK done. Certain medications may also interfere with post-operative healing and contribute to dry eye syndrome. You will want to share your complete list of medications and vitamins and supplements with your doctor during your consultation.
  4. Your corneas cannot be too thin. LASIK works by reshaping the front surface of the eye known as the cornea. The cornea must have enough tissue thickness in order for you to have surgery. Other surgical options may be better suited for you.
  5. You must be at least 18 or older to have LASIK. When you are a teenager, and even a young adult, your eyes continue to change.
  6. If you have a prescription, it’s important that your prescription is stable for at least a year before you are able to proceed with LASIK.
  7. Women who are pregnant or nursing are not good candidates for LASIK as hormonal changes can alter the shape of the cornea. You will want to wait until a few months after you have finished nursing before getting LASIK done.
  8. It’s important to have a positive frame of mind and realistic expectations for the outcome of surgery. Be sure to discuss all potential risks and possible side effects before you decide to undergo LASIK surgery.

To learn whether you are a candidate for LASIK, call 808.955.3937 for a consultation.

The latest technique in corneal transplantation

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The cornea is known as the “window of the eye,” protecting the eye from infection and foreign material and focusing or refracting light. The cornea needs to be clear and the correct shape for you to see accurately. When it becomes cloudy or misshapen, a cornea transplant may be necessary. Read on to learn about the latest technique in corneal transplantation called the DSAEK procedure.

What is DSAEK?

DSAEK is short for Descemet-Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty. It is a less-invasive procedure that gives the patient clear vision and a shorter recovery time than with traditional corneal transplantation methods. Conventional surgery requires 16 surgeries and a prolonged recovery time, plus many patients experience astigmatism after surgery, with full recovery taking up to two years.

What happens during the DSAEK Procedure?

During this outpatient procedure, the patient is given topical anesthesia so they don’t feel anything. The damaged endothelial layer is replaced, while the remainder of the cornea is left undisturbed. The new cornea is inserted through a tiny incision that needs one suture for closure. The surgeon then injects an air bubble underneath the cornea to make sure it is centered on the eye.

What is recovery like?

The DSAEK Procedure offers a shorter post-op recovery, fast visual recovery and less chance of rejection than conventional surgery. Patients will take antibiotics and steroid eye drops and return the next day for post-surgical follow-up. Some patients may need a second air bubble injection to re-center the cornea. Patients will need to use eye drops for several years to help with anti-rejection.

What will my vision be like after surgery?

You can expect blurry vision immediately after surgery due to swelling and the air bubble used to center the cornea. When the bubble dissolves and swelling dissipates, your vision will improve. Some patients will need to wear new glasses during healing.

When can I expect full results?

It may take up to three months for your best vision to reveal itself.

If you are interested in learning more about corneal transplants and the DSAEK Procedure, set up a consultation by calling Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser at 808.955.3937.

Are you at risk for cataracts?

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If your vision has been getting blurry or you have an increased sensitivity to glare, you may be starting to develop cataracts. Over time, this slow-progressing condition will interfere with your vision and may lead to cataract surgery. Can you prevent cataracts? Read on to learn more about cataracts and treatment.

What are cataracts?

The lens of your eye is normally clear. It’s positioned behind the colored part of the eye called the iris. The lens focuses light that passes through your eye and produces clear images on your retina. The retina function like the film in a camera. Age-related conditions and other medical conditions can cause tissues in the lens to break down, causing a clouding within the lens. A cataract develops slowly as the clouding becomes denser and consumes a larger part of the lens. Over time, your vision will become blurred.

What are the risk factors?

Age, smoking, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and excessive exposure to sunlight are some of the risk factors for cataracts. Previous eye injuries or surgery also increase your risk. Prolonged use of certain medications may be a factor as well.

Can you prevent cataracts?

While there isn’t a way to prevent cataracts, there are some things you can do to improve your risk factors. Be sure to have regular eye examinations based on your age and family history. If you smoke, quit. It’s important to manage certain health conditions such as diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure that increase your risk. Consume a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables. If you drink, reduce your use of alcohol. Be sure to wear broad-spectrum sunglasses that block ultraviolet B rays when you’re outside.

What are the treatment options?

Once your lenses have started to cloud, they will not stop and won’t return to their original clear condition. The only treatment for cataracts is surgery to replace the lenses. Surgery consists of replacing the clouded lens with an intraocular lens implant, or IOL. It’s a minimally invasive, small-incision, no-stitch procedure. Vision begins to improve a few days after surgery, and full healing can take up to two months. If both eyes require surgery, the second surgery will be done 1-2 months after the first surgery.

If you’re concerned about cataracts or other eye conditions, schedule an eye exam today by calling Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser at 808.955.3937.