Having cataract surgery? Nearly 3 million Americans who have cataracts removed each year. In fact, it's the most commonly performed surgery in the nation. And, the numbers are expected to increase—by the year 2020, nearly 30 million Americans will have cataracts. Even though cataract surgery is a common procedure, you may find yourself feeling anxious about an operation on your eye. Ophthalmologists Paul E. Garland, M.D. and Bret L. Fisher, M.D., have performed thousands of cataract surgeries, and they understand your questions and concerns. They answer questions such as: How long should you wait to have cataract surgery? What type of anesthesia is used? How is the cataract actually removed?