Cataract surgery is a common procedure to remove cloudy lenses from the eyes, known as cataracts. These cataracts can cause blurred vision and difficulty seeing at night. During the surgery, the cloudy lens is replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL), which helps restore clear vision. The surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day. It usually takes less than an hour and is done under local anesthesia. Most people experience improved vision shortly after the procedure, although full recovery may take a few weeks.