Cataract surgery is one of the safest vision correction procedures available, and more than three million cataract surgeries are performed each year in the U.S. alone. Like all surgeries, cataract surgery presents a minor risk of bleeding and infection. Retinal detachment — a rarer but more serious complication — is also possible. Your eye care specialist will review these risks with you during your consultation and recommend any precautions you should take to help ensure a smooth procedure.