Vision begins to blur, colours fade, and the world seems covered in fog. Many older adults experience these symptoms — cataract is one of the main causes of deteriorating vision. When daily activities become difficult and reading or driving causes increasing concern, it’s time to seek a solution.
This article explains how cataract surgery is performed, how to choose the right lens, the benefits of the procedure, how to prepare for it, and what to expect afterwards. You’ll also learn about monofocal, multifocal, and EDoF lenses, as well as the post-operative recovery process.
Step-by-Step Cataract Surgery Process
1. Consultation and Preparation
The first step is a visit to an ophthalmologist. They will thoroughly assess your vision, determine the level of lens clouding, and advise whether surgery is necessary. It’s important to inform your doctor about all medications, chronic conditions, and previous eye issues.
At Lirema Eye Clinic, specialists recommend coming with an accompanying person, as the eye will be covered after the procedure, and you won’t be able to drive. Register for a cataract consultation and learn more here.
2. Comfort from the First Minute
Before surgery, patients are given a sedative pill and anaesthetic eye drops. This ensures an entirely pain-free and stress-free experience. Many patients say the anxiety was worse than the procedure itself. The operation is performed on an outpatient basis, so you can go home to rest right afterwards.
3. Minimal Corneal Incision
The microsurgeon makes a tiny incision of just 2–2.4 mm in the cornea, allowing for quick healing. The surgery takes only 20–30 minutes. Modern technologies ensure safety and a smooth recovery.
4. Phacoemulsification – Innovative Cataract Treatment
The cloudy lens is broken down using ultrasound and removed. The natural capsule remains, into which a high-quality artificial lens is implanted. With the phacoemulsification technique, surrounding tissues are minimally affected.
5. The Important Step – Choosing a Lens
A soft, high-quality artificial lens is implanted to replace the natural one. Patients can choose standard monofocal lenses or premium lenses, which allow clear vision at multiple distances — near, intermediate, and far — often eliminating or greatly reducing the need for glasses.
- Monofocal lenses – ideal for clear distance vision; reading glasses are needed.
- Toric lenses – correct astigmatism; reading glasses are still required.
- Multifocal or EDoF (Extended Depth of Focus) lenses – provide sharp vision at all distances with little to no need for glasses.
6. Eye Bandage and Post-Operative Check-Up
After surgery, the eye is covered with a bandage. The patient removes it the next day and starts using the prescribed eye drops. If the surgeon does not indicate otherwise and the patient feels well, a follow-up visit is not required.
7. Post-Operative Care – Key Tips for Healing
The doctor prescribes anti-inflammatory eye drops to aid healing. In the first weeks, avoid touching or rubbing the operated eye, and stay away from dust and open water sources. Experience shows that careful aftercare ensures a smooth recovery and excellent results.
8. Vision Improvement – See Clearly the Next Day
Most patients notice significant improvement the very next day, with final results visible after a few weeks. Colours become brighter, the fog disappears, and the world looks vivid again. Cataract surgery restores independence and confidence — many patients say: “It’s the best gift I could give myself and my loved ones.”
9. Longevity and Quality – The Artificial Lens Lasts a Lifetime
The implanted lens is permanent and does not need replacement. Patients enjoy stable, long-term results and can return to an active, worry-free life. It’s a safe investment in quality of life — especially with multifocal or EDoF lenses, which eliminate or minimize the need for glasses.
10. Key Questions and Answers – Prepare for Change
Before surgery, discuss all concerns with your doctor — which lens to choose, what to expect during recovery, and how to care for your eyes afterwards. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel throughout the process.
Learn more about cataract treatment and surgery steps here.
How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery
Preparation begins with a visit to an ophthalmologist for a thorough examination. You’ll need to provide information about your medical history and medications. On the day of surgery, come with an accompanying person, as you won’t be able to drive. The doctor will provide all necessary instructions beforehand.
Why Can’t You Drive Immediately After Cataract Surgery?
A sedative is given before surgery, which may slow reaction time. In addition, the operated eye is covered afterwards. To ensure your safety and that of others, driving is not recommended until the following day, provided your vision and well-being have stabilized.
When Will I Notice an Improvement in My Vision After Cataract Surgery?
Most patients notice an improvement in their vision the next morning. Complete stabilization occurs within a few weeks, after which the final result can be evaluated.
Which Lens Should I Choose – Monofocal, Toric, Multifocal, or EDoF?
Monofocal lenses correct distance vision, but reading glasses are still needed. Toric lenses correct astigmatism; reading glasses are still required. Multifocal or EDoF lenses provide sharp vision at all distances, significantly reducing or eliminating the need for glasses. Your doctor will help you choose the best option based on your lifestyle and needs.
What’s Most Important for a Smooth Recovery?
During the early recovery phase, protect the operated eye by avoiding touching or rubbing it, keeping it away from dust and open water, and wearing sunglasses outdoors. For a few days, avoid heavy physical work and makeup. Use prescribed eye drops as instructed for safe and quick healing.
Conclusion
The most important thing to know — cataract treatment using laser and phacoemulsification is safe, quick, and long-lasting, restoring clear vision in just 20 minutes.
With timely surgery and the right lens choice, everyday life becomes easy again. If your vision feels cloudy, contact Lirema Eye Clinic — this procedure can restore your sharp sight in 20 minutes.