How long does cataract surgery take?
Cataract surgery is a transformative procedure that has improved the quality of life for millions around the world. If you're considering this surgery, one of the first questions you might have is about the duration of the procedure. Understanding the timeline can help you plan and prepare for your surgery day.
Understanding Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery involves removing the clouded natural lens of the eye and replacing it with a clear artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens (IOL). This procedure is highly effective in restoring vision that has been impaired by cataracts.
The Duration of the Surgery
Typically, cataract surgery is a quick procedure. From the moment you enter the operating room to when you leave, the surgery itself usually takes about less than 10 minutes per eye. However, it's important to note that you should expect to be at the clinic for a couple of hours on the day of your procedure. This time includes pre-surgery preparation, the surgery itself, and a short post-operative recovery period in the facility to ensure there are no immediate complications before you go home.
Factors Affecting Surgery Time
Several factors can influence the duration of the surgery:
- Type of Cataract: More advanced cataracts may require a longer time to remove.
- Surgical Technique: The use of modern phacoemulsification techniques speed up the procedure, while traditional methods might take a bit longer.
- Experience of the Surgeon: Highly experienced surgeons might complete the procedure more quickly.
- Complications: Although rare, any intraoperative complications can extend the duration of the surgery.
Post-Surgery Considerations
After the surgery, you will spend a short period in the recovery area where nurses will monitor your initial recovery and ensure that you are stable before allowing you to go home. It's helpful but not essential that you have someone available to drive you home and assist you for at least the first 24 hours after surgery.
If you want to read more about this, Prof Ursell has published the largest analysis of how these factors affect surgery time in a peer reviewed publication looking at over 11,000 cases in his NHS department over 5 years.
Cataract surgery is a generally quick and highly effective procedure that can dramatically improve your vision. It’s a routine surgery with a high success rate and minimal risks. If you're considering cataract surgery, remember that the actual time in surgery is only a small part of the process aimed at ensuring the best outcome for your vision.
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What our patients say…
★ ★ ★ ★ ★“Excellent result. Complete confidence in Paul Ursell. Quiet, quick, and efficient. Peaceful and comfortable hospital.”
P.T★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The cataract surgery on both of my eyes went very smoothly without any problems. There was no pain afterwards and I didn’t have to wear any eyepatch. I would highly recommend Professor Ursell for cataract surgery.”
M.S★ ★ ★ ★ ★“Highly professional, extremely efficient, and an excellent communicator, Paul exudes experience, knowledge, and ability. The whole process — initial consultation, operation, and post-op check-up — was wonderfully stress-free. I now have 20/20 vision, am glasses-free, and I am delighted by the results.”
S.B★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The cataract surgery has completely changed my life. Mr. Ursell put me at ease and explained all options. The procedure was quick and painless and completely successful, and I now have 20/20 vision in my good eye. One of the reasons I had the surgery was because of Mr. Ursell’s standing and experience. Cannot praise highly enough.”
D.S★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I was very short-sighted and my cataracts badly affected both reading and distance acuity. After the operation I now have very good distance vision (glasses-free) but still need glasses for reading. (This was the expected outcome as I did not want multi-focus implants). The operation was quick and painless, and I had no post-operative discomfort at all (which surprised me). The results are remarkable.
I can certainly recommend Professor Ursell. He is a personable consultant and a skilled surgeon.”
S.D★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Dr. Paul Ursell squashed many of my concerns for not having cataract surgery. He offered comfort with examples of his long/distinguished career and new technology that he applies to the surgery.
Both before and after the surgery, Dr. Ursell and staff gave me the information and attention I needed. It was a great success, and I highly recommend Dr. Ursell.”
PTOWe have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.
