CompositeLayer

Imperial healthcare institute
Dubai healthcare city, Ibn Sina Building 27

How Painful is Cataract Surgery?

How Painful is Cataract Surgery? Complete Guide

Cataract surgery is not usually painful. Modern anaesthetic eye drops numb the eye, so patients feel little more than mild pressure. Any discomfort after surgery is typically minor and temporary.

Many people worry about pain before eye surgery and often ask is cataract surgery painful. Cataracts themselves are not painful, but they can affect vision over time. Cataract surgery is a quick and common procedure designed to restore clear vision. Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the operation.

Is Cataract Surgery Painful?

The short answer is no. Is cataract eye surgery painful is a common concern for patients considering cataract surgery in Dubai, but most people do not feel pain during the procedure. The eye is numbed with anaesthetic drops, which helps prevent pain while the surgery is performed.

What Should You Not Do After a Cataract Operation?

Are Cataracts Painful?

Cataracts themselves are not painful. Are cataracts painful or is cataracts painful are common questions, but cataracts mainly cause blurry vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night rather than physical pain.

Does Cataract Surgery Hurt During the Procedure?

  • Anaesthetic eye drops numb the eye

  • Mild pressure may be felt

  • No sharp pain is expected

  • Sedation may be offered if anxiety is high

This is why most patients say does cataract surgery hurt is answered with “no.”

Can You Watch TV After Cataract Surgery?

How Long Does Cataract Surgery Take?

How long does cataract surgery take is another frequent question. The procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes.
This means how long does a cataract operation take is short enough that most patients go home the same day.

Is a Cataract Operation Painful After Surgery?

After surgery, mild discomfort is normal. Is a cataract operation painful afterwards? Usually not. Some patients feel grittiness, light sensitivity, or mild soreness, which improves within a few days.

Lasik vs Cataract Surgery: What’s the Difference?

Does Cataract Eye Surgery Hurt Afterwards?

  • Mild irritation is common

  • Redness may appear temporarily

  • Light sensitivity can occur

  • Pain is uncommon and should be reported

If significant pain occurs, it is important to contact your eye specialist.

Is cataract surgery 100% successful?

Is Cataract Removal Painful?

Is cataract removal painful is often asked by first-time patients. Cataract removal itself is painless due to anaesthesia. Any post-operative discomfort is usually mild and manageable with eye drops.

Step-by-Step: What Happens During Cataract Surgery

  1. The eye is numbed with anaesthetic drops

  2. A small incision is made in the eye

  3. The cloudy lens is broken up and removed

  4. An artificial lens is inserted

  5. The incision heals naturally

Book Your Appointment Today!

Ready to Restore Clear Vision?

If you have concerns about cataracts or are wondering whether surgery is right for you, speaking to an experienced eye specialist can help. Dr. Qasim Qasem offers personalized cataract consultations focused on patient comfort, safety, and clear outcomes.

Book a consultation today to discuss your symptoms, understand the procedure, and receive expert guidance tailored to your eye health needs.

FAQs (People Also Ask)

Is cataract surgery painful?

No. Most patients feel no pain during surgery due to numbing eye drops.

Does a cataract operation hurt?

No. You may feel pressure, but pain is uncommon.

How long does cataract surgery take?

The surgery usually takes 15–30 minutes.

Are cataracts painful?

No. Cataracts affect vision but do not cause pain.

Does cataract eye surgery hurt after?

Mild discomfort can occur, but severe pain is not normal.

Author

Reviewed by Dr. Qasim Qasem

Last Updated

16 January 2026