Cataract surgery is a highly effective and routine procedure performed to restore vision by replacing a clouded lens with a clear artificial lens. For many, the idea of surgery can feel daunting, and understanding the timeline and what to expect can help ease any concerns.
In this blog, we’ll break down how long cataract surgery takes and what you can anticipate before, during, and after the procedure.
How long does cataract surgery take?
The surgical part of cataract removal is relatively quick, typically lasting 15 to 30 minutes per eye. However, the entire process at the clinic or surgical centre usually takes around 2 to 3 hours. This includes time for pre-surgery preparation, the procedure itself, and a short recovery period afterward.
If both eyes require surgery, they are usually treated on separate days. The second surgery is often scheduled a few weeks later to allow the first eye to heal and your vision to stabilize.
What to expect before surgery
Pre-surgery evaluation
Before the procedure, you’ll attend a comprehensive pre-operative consultation with your ophthalmologist. This assessment includes:
- A detailed examination of your eye health.
- Measurements of your eye to determine the right intraocular lens (IOL) to implant.
- A discussion of your medical history and current medications.
Your doctor will also provide pre-surgery instructions, such as when to stop eating or drinking, which medications to avoid, and how to prepare for the day of surgery.
Preparation on surgery day
When you arrive at the surgical centre, staff will prepare you for the procedure. This includes:
- Administering eye drops to dilate your pupils.
- Numbing your eye with local anaesthetic (usually in the form of drops or an injection).
- Offering a mild sedative to help you relax, though you will remain awake during the surgery.
What happens during the procedure?
The most common method of cataract surgery is phacoemulsification, a safe and minimally invasive technique:
- The surgeon makes a tiny incision in the cornea.
- An ultrasound probe is used to break the cataract into small fragments.
- The fragments are gently removed.
- A new artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted to replace the natural lens.
The procedure is painless, and while you might notice bright lights or slight pressure, it’s typically a comfortable experience. After the surgery, the surgeon will place a protective shield over your eye.
What happens after surgery?
Immediate recovery
Once the procedure is complete, you’ll rest in a recovery area for about 30 to 60 minutes. Once the staff ensures you’re stable, you’ll be discharged to go home the same day.
Post-surgery instructions
You’ll receive detailed instructions on using prescription eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. You may also be advised to avoid:
- Strenuous activities.
- Rubbing your eyes.
- Getting water in your eyes for the first few days.
Most patients notice improved vision within a few days, but complete recovery can take up to six weeks.
Key takeaways
- Surgery time: The actual cataract surgery takes around 15 to 30 minutes.
- Clinic visit duration: Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours at the surgical centre.
- Vision recovery: Vision improvement is often noticeable within days, but full healing may take several weeks.
Cataract surgery is a quick, safe, and life-changing procedure. Knowing what to expect in terms of time and recovery can help you feel more confident and prepared.
If you have any concerns or additional questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your ophthalmologist. They’re there to guide you through every step and ensure a smooth and successful journey to clearer vision.
Book in for your consultation here with Mr Vik Sharma, Consultant Ophthalmologist at LondonOC.