How to prepare for private cataract surgery: A step-by-step guide

Choosing to have private cataract surgery is an important step toward clearer, brighter vision. For many people, it’s life-changing. But like any procedure, the more prepared you are, the smoother the experience will be.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to do before your surgery, so you can feel calm, confident, and ready.

Professor Paul Ursell, a leading cataract and lens surgeon, provides expert private care for patients across London & Surrey. His goal is not just excellent results—but also making sure you feel supported every step of the way.

Step 1: Understand the procedure

Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens inside your eye and replacing it with a clear, artificial lens (called an intraocular lens or IOL). The procedure is quick, typically lasting 20–30 minutes, and is done under local anaesthetic.

With private cataract surgery, you can also choose from a range of premium lenses, such as multifocal or toric lenses, which may reduce your need for glasses after surgery.

Step 2: Book your consultation

Before anything else, you’ll meet with Professor Ursell for a full assessment. This will include:

• Eye scans and measurements
• A discussion of your symptoms
• Advice on which lens will best suit your lifestyle and goals

It’s your chance to ask questions and feel confident in your plan.

Step 3: Arrange help for the day of surgery

You won’t be able to drive yourself home after the procedure, so make sure you’ve arranged transport. Ideally, someone should accompany you on the day but it's not mandatory.

Step 4: Follow medication advice

Professor Ursell will allow you to take any medications you are prescribed as normal, including blood thinners or diabetes medications.

Let the clinic know if you take any regular prescriptions or have other medical conditions. This helps ensure a safe and smooth procedure.

Step 5: Avoid certain products

On the day of your surgery, avoid using:

• Eye makeup
• Face creams
• Perfume or aftershave

These can introduce bacteria or interfere with the sterility of the operating environment.

Step 6: Eat and drink as advised

Unless told otherwise, you can usually eat a light meal and drink water before surgery. You’ll be awake for the procedure but won’t feel any pain.

The team will make sure you’re comfortable and well informed throughout.

Step 7: Wear comfortable clothing

Choose loose, comfortable clothes on the day of surgery. Avoid anything that needs to be pulled over your head. You won’t need to change into a gown, but you’ll want to be relaxed.

Step 8: Plan for recovery

Most people see improvement in their vision within 24–48 hours, but you’ll need to take it easy for a few days.

Tips:

• Avoid strenuous activity
• You can bend down and lift heavy objects
• Use your eye drops as prescribed

Arrange some time off work and limit social activities for a few days. Your eye needs time to heal properly.

Step 10: Know when to call the clinic

After your surgery, Professor Ursell’s team will give you a 24-hour contact number in case you experience:

• Increasing pain
• Sudden drop in vision
• Redness or discharge.

These are rare, but it's important to get help quickly if anything doesn’t feel right.

Final thoughts

Preparing well for cataract surgery can make all the difference to your experience and your outcome. With private care from Professor Paul Ursell, you’ll receive expert guidance, personalised support, and world-class results.

Wondering if private cataract surgery is right for you?

Take our quick self-test to see if you’re a suitable candidate.