Dianne’s Cataract Surgery Story

When Southwest Florida seasonal resident Dianne Zagata first learned she had cataracts a few years ago, she wasn’t too concerned. “My regular eye doctor told me I had developing cataracts, but at the time, I really wasn’t having symptoms,” Dianne said. “So I just continued living my life.”

Living most of the year in Ave Maria, Florida, with summers in Colorado, Dianne stayed active and managed well with the glasses she had worn since the eighth grade.

But in 2025, an unexpected case of pink eye during a family visit with kids and grandkids changed everything. “The pink eye caused bruising around my right eye, and my primary care physician suggested I see an eye doctor to make sure everything was okay.”

That recommendation led her to Collins Vision—and ultimately to a life-changing experience.

During her evaluation, Dr. Jason C. Friedrichs at Collins Vision’s Naples location explained that her cataracts had progressed significantly. He discussed with Dianne some advanced cataract surgery options that could reduce her dependence on glasses, namely Refractive Cataract Surgery, an advanced procedure the surgeons at Collins Vision specialize in. 

In addition, Dianne learned she qualified for insurance-covered upper blepharoplasty because her drooping eyelids were beginning to impair her vision. “They explained everything so clearly,” Dianne said. “I felt very comfortable and confident right away.”

Under the care of Friedrichs, Dianne first underwent upper blepharoplasty.

“I was thrilled with the results,” she said. “My eyes looked so much brighter. I didn’t realize how much the drooping eyelids had been affecting both my vision and my appearance. I looked less tired almost immediately.”

After healing from the procedure, Dianne moved forward with cataract surgery in early 2026, including premium lens implants and YAG laser treatment. The results exceeded her expectations.

“After wearing glasses since eighth grade, I still find myself reaching for them—and they’re not there anymore,” Dianne said. “I am seeing this well without glasses. It’s amazing.”

For Dianne, the transformation has gone beyond improved vision. “There’s such a sense of freedom now,” she said. “I don’t have to worry about losing my glasses or prescription sunglasses anymore. And now I can buy cute sunglasses just because I like them—not because they need a prescription.”

She credits Dr. Friedrichs and the Collins Vision team for making the experience so positive.

“Dr. Friedrichs is incredibly skilled, professional, and efficient,” she said. “He made me feel confident every step of the way with both procedures. And the staff at Collins Vision is wonderful—so personable and caring. I’ve already recommended them to several people.”

Today, Dianne is enjoying clearer vision, renewed confidence, and a freedom she never imagined possible after decades of relying on glasses. “It really has been life-changing,” she said.

 

Cataract Surgery Is an Opportunity

Because of advances in technology, you now have the opportunity to make a lifestyle decision about your vision after cataract surgery. At Collins Vision, our experienced surgeons specialize in Refractive Cataract Surgery, where the goal is to remove your cataract and reduce your dependency on glasses at the same time by correcting refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia with a premium intraocular lens. This advanced procedure goes beyond standard cataract surgery to deliver amazing results designed to fit your unique vision and lifestyle. Your lens will be hand-selected by Dr. Michael J. Collins, Dr. Jason C. Friedrichs, or Dr. Bradley P. O’Neill to best fit your needs.

 

Enjoy Visual Freedom

If, like Dianne, you’ve been told you have cataracts or if you’re noticing changes in your vision, don’t delay. Clear vision can help you retain your independence, enjoy the daily activities you love more easily, and even reduce your dependency on corrective eyewear.

We encourage you to schedule a consultation and discover how modern cataract surgery can help you See the Difference with the vision you deserve.