What happens at a private cataract surgery follow-up appointment?

If you're preparing for cataract surgery, you likely have questions about what happens afterwards—especially when it comes to your follow-up appointments. These visits are an essential part of your recovery and play a key role in ensuring that your vision is healing as expected. In this blog, we'll walk you through what to expect during a private cataract surgery follow-up appointment, how it differs from NHS care, and why seeing a specialist like Professor Paul Ursell makes all the difference.

Why are follow-up appointments important?

Cataract surgery is a very successful procedure. But like any surgery, it's important to monitor your recovery. A follow-up appointment allows your surgeon to:

• Check that your eye is healing properly
• Monitor your visual outcome
• Identify and treat any early signs of complications
• Discuss whether glasses are still needed
• Answer any questions you may have.

Private care ensures these appointments are consultant-led, meaning you’ll see the same highly qualified specialist throughout your journey, rather than being passed between departments.

What happens right after surgery?

In private care, your follow-up process starts immediately. Most patients are given protective eye drops and a shield to wear overnight. Your first follow-up appointment usually happens 1 week after the procedure.

This early check is to ensure:

• There is no sign of infection
• The new lens is well-positioned
• Your eye pressure is normal
• You understand your eye drop schedule.

The first week: The key follow-up appointment

At around 7 days after surgery, you’ll return for a comprehensive follow-up. Here’s what usually happens:

1. Vision testing

You’ll have a vision check to assess how clearly you're seeing with the new lens implant. Some people experience dramatic improvement after just a few days.

2. Eye pressure check

Your eye pressure will be measured, especially if you're at risk for glaucoma or other conditions.

3. Slit lamp examination

Professor Ursell will use a slit lamp (a microscope with a bright light) to look at the front and back of your eye. He’ll check:

• The position of your new lens
• The health of your cornea
• That your eye is healing properly

4. Reviewing your experience

You’ll be asked how your vision feels and whether you’ve had any discomfort, light sensitivity, or other changes. This is your opportunity to ask questions and share your experience.

Do I need more than one follow-up?

Not usually. We find that the results of the surgery are so good that only 1 visit is required. However there are occasions where more than one is needed and this is easily arranged. Your package will include as many visits as required to make sure you are satisfied up to 8 weeks following surgery.

If you had premium lens implants, such as multifocal or toric lenses, Professor Ursell may schedule additional visits to assess how your eyes are adjusting.

Private vs NHS follow-up appointments

In the NHS, follow-up care may be more limited and you might not see the same clinician who performed your surgery.

In private care, follow-ups are:

• Longer and more in-depth
• With the same consultant who performed your surgery
• Tailored to your needs
• Focused on delivering the best visual outcome.

This continuity helps patients feel confident, cared for, and fully supported throughout their recovery.

What if something isn’t right?

The vast majority of patients heal without issue. But in rare cases, minor complications can arise. These might include:

• Slight inflammation
• Dry eye
• Posterior capsule opacification (a common side effect that’s easily treated with laser).

Catching these issues early at follow-up appointments allows for fast treatment and peace of mind.

What should I do before my follow-up?

• Use all prescribed eye drops exactly as directed
• Avoid rubbing your eyes
• Don’t drive to your first appointment unless told otherwise
• Write down any questions you’d like to ask

Bring your glasses (if any) so your vision can be compared.

Final thoughts

A private cataract surgery follow-up is about much more than a quick check, it’s a chance to ensure your vision is healing well, confirm your results, and get personalised advice from your surgeon.

Professor Paul Ursell will be with you every step of the way, from consultation through surgery and beyond. You’ll never feel rushed or unsure.

Take our suitability self-test today to learn if private cataract surgery is right for you.