Cataract surgery is generally not painful because local anaesthetic drops and, in some cases, additional anaesthetic are used to numb the eye. Most patients feel only pressure or cool fluid during the procedure.
During Surgery
You remain awake but should not feel sharp pain. If any discomfort occurs, extra anaesthetic can be given. Some people notice lights and colours while the operation is taking place.
- Mild pressure or awareness of movement is normal
- Communication with the surgical team is encouraged
- The procedure is usually brief, often under 30 minutes
After Surgery
It is common to experience mild grittiness or ache as the anaesthetic wears off. This is usually well controlled with simple pain relief and prescribed drops.
Further Information
The Blue Fin Vision® blog article dos and don’ts after cataract surgery provides additional guidance on what to expect and how to stay comfortable during recovery.
