How Safe Is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful procedures available today, helping thousands of people every year regain clearer vision and improve their quality of life. At Optegra, our goal is to make sure you have all the information you need to feel fully confident before your treatment.

What You Need To Know About Cataract Surgery: How Safe Is It?

Cataract surgery is a routine procedure performed millions of times worldwide each year with excellent outcomes. At Optegra, 99.3% of our patients reported no complications in 2024/25. While any surgery carries some risk, serious complications are very rare and, in most cases, treatable.

Possible side effects include temporary blurred vision, mild bleeding, or inflammation, all of which can usually be managed with medication or follow-up treatment. The most serious risk is permanent loss of vision, but this happens in only around one in 1,000 cases. At Optegra we strive for excellence and our rate (0.008%) is lower than NOD benchmark (0.02%). Your consultant will explain all potential risks before you decide on surgery, giving you peace of mind that you are making an informed choice.

Understanding The Risks Of Infection

Infection after cataract surgery is very uncommon, especially when proper aftercare steps are followed. Signs of infection may include red eyes, increased sensitivity to light, pain, or a sudden change in vision. If an infection does occur, it can be treated promptly with antibiotic medication.

At Optegra, we take every precaution to keep your risk as low as possible. You will be closely monitored after surgery, given clear aftercare instructions, and provided with emergency contact details for peace of mind.

For eligible NHS patients, we now offer drop-free cataract surgery, which removes the need for daily post-operative eye drops. This not only makes recovery simpler but can also help lower the risk of infection by reducing the chance of bacteria being introduced into the eye during drop administration.

How Long Am I At Risk Of Infection After Cataract Surgery?

The risk of infection is highest during the first one to two weeks after surgery, when the eye is still healing. This is why it’s so important to follow the hygiene and aftercare instructions provided by your clinical team. These may include avoiding rubbing your eye, keeping water out of the eye while bathing, and wearing a protective shield while you sleep in the early days of recovery.

Most patients find that this recovery period is straightforward and are able to get back to many of their usual activities, including reading and watching television, within a day or two. Driving, exercise, and other more strenuous activities can usually be resumed after your follow-up appointment once your consultant confirms it is safe to do so.

By carefully following your aftercare plan, you can keep your risk of infection very low and enjoy a smooth, comfortable recovery.

How We Keep You Safe at Optegra

Your safety is our top priority at every stage of your cataract surgery journey. At Optegra, all procedures are carried out by consultant ophthalmic surgeons who are experts in their field and highly experienced in performing cataract surgery.

Our purpose-built eye hospitals and clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical technology, allowing us to deliver the highest standards of care. We follow strict infection control protocols before, during, and after surgery to minimise any risk of complications.

You will also have a personalised treatment plan, with your consultant carefully assessing your eye health and overall wellbeing before recommending surgery. After your procedure, you will receive detailed aftercare instructions, follow-up appointments to check your progress, and 24/7 access to emergency contact numbers should you need reassurance or urgent advice.

This combination of expert consultants, advanced technology, and thorough aftercare ensures that your cataract surgery is as safe and successful as possible.