Cataract Surgery

Remove cloudy lenses and restore crystal-clear vision with modern phacoemulsification and premium intraocular lens implants.

15-20 minRecovery: 4-6 weeksLasts: Permanent

Find Cataract Surgery Clinics (3026)

Quick Overview

Duration

15-20 min

Anesthesia

Topical (eye drops)

Stay in Clinic

Outpatient

Back to Work

2-5 days

Full Recovery

4-6 weeks

Results Visible

1-2 days

Longevity

Permanent

What is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed eye operation in the world. A cataract forms when the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy, causing blurry vision, faded colors, and difficulty seeing at night.

During the procedure, the clouded lens is gently broken up using ultrasound (phacoemulsification) and removed through a tiny incision. It is then replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) that stays in the eye permanently.

With premium multifocal or toric IOLs, cataract surgery can also correct pre-existing refractive errors and presbyopia, often reducing or eliminating the need for glasses entirely.

Techniques & Approaches

Phacoemulsification

The standard technique: ultrasound breaks up the cloudy lens through a 2-3mm incision. The fragments are aspirated and an IOL is inserted. No stitches needed.

Femtosecond Laser-Assisted

A laser performs key steps (incision, capsulotomy, lens fragmentation) with extreme precision. Often used with premium IOLs for optimal results.

Monofocal IOL

A standard artificial lens that provides clear vision at one distance (usually far). Reading glasses are typically still needed.

Multifocal / Trifocal IOL

Premium lenses with multiple focus zones, providing clear vision at near, intermediate, and far distances. Can significantly reduce dependence on glasses.

Benefits

Restores clear, sharp vision
Quick procedure — typically 15-20 minutes per eye
Permanent solution — cataracts cannot return
Premium lens options can correct other vision problems
Very high success rate (over 99%)
Minimal downtime — most resume normal activities within days

Ideal Candidate

Patients experiencing cloudy, blurry, or faded vision caused by cataracts, typically aged 60+. Also suitable for younger patients with early cataracts or those seeking refractive correction through lens exchange.

Before & After Care

Preparation

Complete a comprehensive eye exam with biometry (IOL measurements)
Discuss lens options with your surgeon (monofocal vs. premium)
Arrange transportation — you cannot drive on the day of surgery
Use prescribed antibiotic eye drops as directed before surgery
Do not eat or drink for a few hours before (if sedation is planned)

Aftercare

Wear the protective eye shield, especially while sleeping
Use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops as prescribed
Avoid rubbing or pressing on the eye
Do not swim or use hot tubs for 2-4 weeks
Attend follow-up appointments at 1 day, 1 week, and 4-6 weeks

Risks & Considerations

All medical procedures carry some degree of risk. Discuss these thoroughly with your surgeon during consultation.

Posterior capsule opacification (treatable with a quick laser procedure)
Temporary inflammation or swelling
Increased eye pressure
Infection (very rare, less than 0.1%)
Retinal detachment (rare)
With multifocal IOLs: halos or glare at night

Recovery Timeline

Vision improves noticeably within the first 1-2 days. Mild discomfort, slight redness, and sensitivity to light are common initially. Use prescribed drops for several weeks. Avoid heavy lifting and bending for the first week. Full visual stabilization takes 4-6 weeks. If both eyes need surgery, the second eye is typically done 1-2 weeks after the first.

Pricing

€800 – €2,400 per eye

Prices vary by clinic, technique, and lens type. Contact clinics directly for exact pricing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can cataracts come back after surgery?

No. Once the natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial one, cataracts cannot return. However, a condition called posterior capsule opacification (a clouding of the membrane behind the IOL) can occur months or years later. It is easily treated with a quick, painless laser procedure (YAG capsulotomy).

Should I choose a premium or standard lens?