Cataract surgery: cost, NHS wait & what to expect

Overview

Cataract surgery removes the cloudy lens in your eye and replaces it with a clear artificial lens to restore vision. It is one of the most common and successful operations performed.

Why it's done

• Cloudy or blurred vision affecting daily life
• Glare or difficulty driving at night
• Faded colours

What happens

Usually a 30–45 minute day-case procedure under local anaesthetic (eye drops/injection). You're awake but won't see the details of the operation.

Recovery

• Vision improves over a few days to weeks
• Eye drops for a few weeks
• Avoid rubbing the eye and heavy lifting initially

Risks & things to consider

• Infection (rare)
• Posterior capsule opacification (treatable with laser)
• Retinal detachment (uncommon)
• Need for glasses for some tasks

Alternatives

• Stronger glasses (early cataracts)
• Better lighting
• Waiting until symptoms worsen

Questions to ask your provider

• Which lens options do I have and what do they cost?
• Is the price per eye or for both?
• What follow-up is included?