Cataract surgery is the most common surgery performed in the United States, and the procedure is considered very safe.  With any surgery, however, there are some risks associated with the procedure.  Sometimes, it is difficult for the cataract surgeon to remove the cataract entirely.  This can occur if there is a weakness in the lens capsule which holds the cataract.  If remaining cataract pieces migrate to the back of the eye, a retinal surgeon may be asked to perform a second surgery, called a vitrectomy, in order to safely remove the pieces.  Once the pieces are completely removed, the patient may enjoy visual rehabilitation over time.

If the cataract surgeon did not insert an artificial intraocular lens at the time of cataract surgery, the retina surgeon may place a lens in the eye at the time of vitrectomy surgery.