Your Concerns Allayed. Why There’s No Need to Be Terrified of Cataract Surgery

Many people are understandably nervous about cataract surgery – some even say they’re terrified of it. But at Optegra, we know that understanding the process is often the best way to feel calm and confident.

In this article, we’ll explore why you don’t need to be terrified of cataract surgery, what the procedure involves, and how our expert team ensures a comfortable, safe experience from start to finish.

Is It Normal to Be Terrified of Cataract Surgery?

Feeling nervous or even terrified of cataract surgery is more common than you might think. Many patients express concerns about being awake during the procedure, experiencing pain, or facing complications. It’s natural to feel apprehensive before any operation, especially one involving your eyes. 

To help put your mind at ease, here’s what makes cataract surgery such a safe and effective choice.

A Routine, Predictable Procedure

Cataract surgery has been refined over decades and is now one of the most commonly performed procedures worldwide. Thanks to modern technology and advanced techniques, outcomes are highly predictable. When carried out by a skilled surgeon, your treatment is in safe, experienced hands.

Minimal Discomfort

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia. Your eye is numbed with drops so you won’t feel pain, and while you remain awake, most patients describe the experience as entirely comfortable and stress-free.

Quick and Efficient

The surgery itself typically takes just 8 to 20 minutes per eye. During that time, your surgeon will remove the clouded natural lens and replace it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore sharper, brighter vision.

Exceptional Success Rates

Cataract surgery has one of the highest success rates of any medical procedure. At Optegra, we carry out more than 50,000 cataract surgeries each year and consistently achieve over 99% success, with patients experiencing safe, complication-free outcomes.

Rapid Visual Recovery

Most people notice improved vision within 24 to 48 hours. Recovery is typically smooth, and many return to normal activities just a few days after treatment. For many, it’s not just clearer sight, it’s a life-changing difference.

What to Expect on the Day of Cataract Surgery

To help alleviate fear of cataract surgery, it can help to know in advance what happens on the day of surgery.

• After arriving at one of our dedicated eye hospitals, our welcome team will ensure that you’re comfortable. Our team always puts our patients first, so this can be a good time to ask any questions or address any concerns you may have. If you are feeling anxious, you can opt for a mild sedative to help you relax.
• We’ll explain the surgery process from beginning to end.
• Treatment will take place in one of our modern and well-equipped theatres.
• You’ll lie down on a comfortable treatment bed while local anaesthesia is applied to the eye. Our team will ensure you are relaxed and comfortable. The procedure itself is quick and pain-free.
• After surgery, you’ll relax in a comfortable recovery area. Your after-care kit will be provided, including eye drops (if required) and detailed instructions. You can then leave for home when you feel ready.
• You will be able to see after your treatment, although your vision might be a little hazy. We therefore recommend you have someone come pick you up to take you home and you should avoid public transport (buses, trains and trams etc.

Can You Be Put to Sleep for Cataract Surgery?

At Optegra, cataract surgery is performed under local anaesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. The use of local anaesthesia means the eye is numbed before surgery. This ensures you won’t feel any pain during the surgery. However, you will typically remain awake and aware during the procedure. Local anaesthesia is the preferred choice because it allows for a quicker recovery and avoids the potential risks associated with general anaesthesia. 

Answers to common questions about cataract surgery

Before treatment, patients have many questions about the cataract surgery procedure. Below are some of the most common:

How Aware Are You During Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs the eye and the surrounding area, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. You are awake and alert during the surgery, but you will not experience any discomfort. Patients typically describe the experience as painless.

The use of local anaesthesia allows the surgeon to communicate with you during the surgery, ensuring your comfort and guiding you through any necessary eye movements. The surgeon will also monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.

In case you are overly anxious during the period of your surgery, our medical team can provide sedatives to help you relax.

Can I Blink During Cataract Surgery?

Although blinking is a natural reflex, it won’t interrupt your cataract surgery. To keep the eye open and still, your surgeon will gently place a small device called a lid speculum, which holds your eyelids apart without causing discomfort. This allows the surgeon clear, steady access to your eye throughout the procedure – ensuring it can be carried out safely and precisely.

Should I Worry About Floaters After Cataract Surgery?

Patients may report more noticeable floaters post-cataract surgery particularly when staring at the sky or plain/white backgrounds, this is because the cloudy cataract has now been removed and your eyes can see floaters that were present before surgery more clearly. 

If you notice a sudden new onset of floaters (shower of floaters) that can be accompanied by flashing lights or a curtain veil over your vision this can be an indication of a more serious postoperative complication that requires immediate medical attention (retinal detachment) and your treating hospital or local eye casualty should be contacted immediately. .  

How to Relax Before Cataract Surgery

Feeling nervous or scared of cataract surgery is completely natural, especially in the lead-up to your procedure. These practical steps can help prepare for your surgery and alleviate your worries.

In the Days Before Your Surgery:

• Learn what to expect. Understanding the procedure and recovery process can ease anxiety. Our blog and consultation team are here to help answer any questions.
• Stay on track with your instructions. Follow all pre-operative guidance, including medication and eye drop use, as advised by your clinical team.
• Get your home ready. Arrange a quiet, comfortable space for your recovery and stock up on essentials.
• Prioritise rest. Good sleep supports your body’s readiness for surgery and can help ease emotional tension
• Focus on wellbeing. Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and avoid unnecessary stress in the days leading up to your surgery.

On the Day of Surgery:

• Dress for comfort. Choose loose-fitting clothes and avoid wearing make-up or jewellery.
• Arrive with time to spare. Getting to the clinic early helps reduce stress and gives you time to settle in.
• Bring someone with you. A companion can provide reassurance and help with travel after the procedure.
• Trust your clinical team. At Optegra, you’re in the hands of highly experienced surgeons and caring staff who will guide you through every step.

Taking these simple steps can make a big difference to your experience. If you ever feel overwhelmed, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our expert team is here to support you.

What next? Get in touch for free, no-obligation advice

If you’re suffering from cataracts, why not contact us to see if we can help? Our friendly and experienced patient services team is waiting to offer advice on how we can provide treatment quickly and comfortably. Or learn more about cataract surgery with Optegra.