Is There a Preferred Time of Year To Have Cataract Surgery?

Many people wonder if there’s a best time of year to have cataract surgery. Seasonal changes, allergies, lifestyle factors and even the weather can all seem like they might play a part. It’s a common question we hear from patients, and one worth exploring before you decide on your treatment. Read on as our experts explore if there is a preferred time to have cataract surgery.

When is the Best Season for Cataract Surgery?

The simple answer is that the best time for cataract surgery is when your vision has deteriorated enough to significantly impact your daily life. Whether you’re struggling to read, drive, or recognise faces, cataract surgery should not be delayed once the symptoms of cataracts begin to impact your independence and quality of life.

That said, some seasonal factors, such as pollen allergies, summer sun exposure, or winter dryness, can influence recovery comfort. At Optegra, our consultants discuss these considerations with every patient to ensure surgery is scheduled at the safest and most suitable time for their lifestyle.

Seasonal Allergies and Cataract Surgery

Spring and early summer can trigger hay fever and other allergies. For those prone to allergic conjunctivitis, symptoms such as itchy or watery eyes may feel worse during recovery. While allergies are not a reason to delay surgery, your consultant will help you manage your symptoms so they don’t interfere with the eye’s healing post-surgery. Patients with severe seasonal allergies sometimes choose winter or autumn for their cataract surgery, when pollen counts are lower, for a more comfortable recovery.

Summer: Sunlight, UV, and Outdoor Living

Summer brings longer days and more outdoor activities, which can make clear vision after cataract surgery particularly rewarding. However, excessive UV exposure is a risk factor for developing cataracts in the first place and can worsen glare sensitivity before treatment.

One benefit of modern cataract surgery is that many intraocular lenses (IOLs) include built-in UV protection, helping to safeguard eyes after surgery. If you choose to have surgery in the summer, your surgeon will recommend wearing wraparound sunglasses outdoors to support recovery (reduce light sensitivity) and UV protection is always recommended to  protect against UV damage.

Winter: Dry Air and Lower Allergy Risk

Winter can be a favourable time for cataract surgery. With pollen levels at their lowest, there is less chance of allergy flare-ups, and people generally spend more time indoors, reducing exposure to dust, dirt and potential sources of infection.

The only drawback is that colder weather and indoor heating can make the air drier, which sometimes aggravates existing dry eye symptoms. However, with Optegra’s drop-free cataract surgery, patients no longer need to worry about managing a long regimen of eye drops during recovery. Instead, they can focus on keeping comfortable at home – and ensuring they have good lighting while adjusting to their new vision during the shorter winter days.

What If You Have a Cold Around Surgery Time?

Mild colds usually do not stop cataract surgery from going ahead. But if you develop a fever, chest congestion, or persistent coughing and sneezing, your consultant may recommend postponing until you’ve fully recovered. This ensures both your safety under anaesthetic and a smoother recovery.

If you catch a cold after surgery, good hygiene is essential – wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your eyes to lower the risk of infection.

When Should You Book Surgery?

Ultimately, the decision should be based on your eye health, not the season. Cataracts only get worse over time, and delaying treatment can reduce quality of life. If your vision is already interfering with daily tasks, now is the right time to book.

At Optegra, we provide both private and NHS cataract surgery, with access to leading consultant surgeons, advanced technology, and innovations such as our new drop-free cataract surgery, which makes recovery even more convenient.

Next Steps: Book Your Free Consultation

If cataracts are affecting your life, there’s no need to wait for a specific season. Speak with your GP or optometrist about an NHS referral to Optegra, or book a free private consultation with one of our consultants today. Clearer vision and greater freedom could be just weeks away.