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Cataract Surgery FAQs
What is cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery removes the eye’s cloudy natural lens and replaces it with a clear artificial lens to help restore sharper vision. At Centre for Sight, the treatment is planned around your prescription, eye health and visual priorities, so our advice is personalised rather than one-size-fits-all.
When is cataract surgery usually needed?
Cataract surgery is usually considered when cloudy vision starts to affect everyday life, such as reading, driving, screen use or recognising faces clearly. At Centre for Sight, we explain that the decision is based on how much the cataract is affecting your vision and comfort, not just whether a cataract is present.
Is cataract surgery painful?
Cataract surgery is generally not painful because anaesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eye before treatment. Most patients notice pressure or mild sensations rather than pain, and our consultant-led approach is designed to keep you informed and reassured throughout the procedure.
How long does cataract surgery take?
Our surgery usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes per eye, although you should allow longer for preparation and checks on the day. After treatment, you will be monitored for a short period before going home, so it is still a relatively straightforward day-case procedure.
Do I need to stay in hospital overnight?
In most cases, no overnight stay is needed because cataract surgery is normally carried out as a day-case treatment. Centre for Sight provides aftercare guidance before you leave, so you know how to use your eye drops, what symptoms are normal, and when to contact the team if you have concerns.
What is recovery like after cataract surgery?
Many people notice clearer vision within a few days, but full healing can take several weeks as the eye settles. During recovery, we advise using prescribed drops as directed, avoiding rubbing the eye, and being careful not to let water get into the treated eye in the early stages.
Are both eyes treated at the same time?
Usually, one eye is treated first and the second eye is scheduled separately once the first has started to heal well. This staged approach helps your surgeon monitor recovery carefully and confirm the best next step for your overall vision.
What lens options are available for cataract surgery?
Lens options can include monofocal lenses for one main distance, as well as premium choices such as multifocal, trifocal, toric or extended depth-of-focus lenses for suitable patients. Centre for Sight uses detailed diagnostics and consultation time to explain which lens options may suit your prescription, lifestyle and expectations.
What is laser cataract surgery?
Laser cataract surgery uses femtosecond laser technology to add extra precision to parts of the procedure, including breaking up the cloudy lens. We offer this as part of its advanced cataract care, and it can be especially relevant for patients who want a more tailored treatment plan or have astigmatism to address.
Can cataract surgery reduce my need for glasses?
It can, but the answer depends on your eyes and the type of lens chosen for your treatment. Some patients still need glasses for certain tasks, while others may reduce their dependence on them more significantly, so Centre for Sight focuses on clear pre-surgery discussions about what is realistic for your vision after treatment.
Still Have Questions?
Our patient care team is here to answer any additional questions you may have about laser eye surgery.