Is Cataract Surgery Painful?

When people first hear they might need surgery on their eyes to remove cataract, one of the initial questions they ask is whether cataract surgery is painful. Our eyes are incredibly sensitive, and the idea of them being operated on can feel unsettling, so it’s entirely natural to feel nervous at the thought of eye surgery. 

Is a Cataract Operation Painful?

The short answer is no. Cataract removal is performed under local anaesthetic, which numbs the eye completely before the operation begins. Some patients are also given a mild sedative to ensure they feel relaxed. Although you’ll remain awake throughout the procedure, the anaesthetic prevents any pain, and your consultant will check on your comfort at every stage.

During surgery, which typically lasts no more than eight minutes per eye, you may be aware of gentle pressure or a cool sensation as fluid runs across the eye’s surface. Many patients also notice colourful patterns or lights. These experiences are entirely normal and not cause for concern. Most people find they remember little of the procedure afterwards, describing it as quick, painless, and surprisingly unremarkable.

What About Eye Pain After Cataract Surgery?

Experiencing pain after cataract surgery is rare. It is much more common to notice mild irritation or a gritty feeling in the first day or two, which usually resolves quickly. Some patients may also experience temporary dryness as the eye heals, but overall, discomfort tends to be minimal. 

At Optegra, NHS patients also benefit from innovations such as drop-free cataract surgery, where anti-inflammatory and antibiotic medication is delivered during the procedure itself, removing the need for weeks of eye drops and making recovery even more straightforward.

We always invite patients for a 30-minute examination in the weeks following surgery, allowing us to ensure optimal eye health and make sure the recovery process is going as smoothly as possible.

Why Might My Vision Be Blurry a Few Weeks Later

Most people enjoy noticeably clearer vision within days of surgery, and the eye continues to settle over the following four to six weeks. If discomfort persists beyond this period, it is important to seek advice from your aftercare team. Symptoms such as worsening eye pain months after cataract surgery, sensitivity to light, new floaters, flashes of light or redness are not typical and may indicate an underlying complication that needs treatment.

While these situations are rare, prompt assessment is vital. At Optegra, patients always have access to 24-hour support. If problems do arise, they can be quickly addressed by our on-call clinical team.

Can Cataracts Cause Pain Behind the Eyes?

A common misconception is that cataracts themselves can be painful. In fact, cataracts do not cause pain either in the eye or behind it. Their impact is visual, causing cloudy or blurred sight, faded colours and glare, particularly at night. If you are experiencing persistent pain behind the eyes, it is usually caused by another condition, such as glaucoma, sinus problems, or even simple eye strain. An eye examination can help identify the exact cause and ensure the right treatment is offered.

Supporting a Comfortable Recovery

Recovery from cataract surgery is usually smooth, especially when patients follow their consultant’s advice carefully. Protective eye shields are worn during the first night to prevent accidental rubbing, and sunglasses are used outdoors to help ease light sensitivity and protect against dust and debris. Care should also be taken to avoid getting water, soap or shampoo into the eye, which is why swimming is not recommended until the eye is fully healed. 

Abstaining from strenuous activity is equally important. Exercises that raise eye pressure following cataract surgery, such as heavy lifting or vigorous bending, should be left until your surgeon gives the all-clear. Eye makeup should also be avoided in the early weeks to reduce the risk of infection. By taking these simple steps, the majority of patients find that their recovery is not only pain-free but also surprisingly quick, with a return to normal daily activities in just a few days.

Speak to an Optegra Consultant Today

In summary, the prospect of pain certainly shouldn’t put you off getting cataract surgery. In most cases, the procedure itself will be totally painless, and any post-operative discomfort will be outweighed by the overwhelmingly positive impacts of cataract surgery. From your first consultation to your recovery, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

If you have concerns about cataract surgery or want to learn more about what to expect, book a free consultation today and take the first step towards clearer, pain-free vision.