My late husband had childhood cataracts at age 13. This was in the late 40’s. He had the benefit of the latest technology from the Mayo Clinic. This was the procedure, they slit the cataract and then let it peel up for a couple of days, then removed it. His head was sandbagged for two weeks. Then the other eye was done a few weeks later.
What was a two week procedure for him, was a few minutes for me.
My husband actually was able to join the Navy.