Frequently Asked Questions About Cataract Surgery

For people with cataracts, seeing through a cloudy lens is like looking through a foggy window. Glasses and brighter lighting can help for a while, but many patients eventually need cataract surgery.

The Eye Center at Batal Specialist Complex in Saudi Arabia is considered one of the leading centers for the treatment of eye diseases, staffed by highly experienced ophthalmologists and equipped with advanced technology. Below are some of the most common questions patients ask about cataract surgery:

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Are there different types of cataract surgery?

Yes, there are several types of cataract surgery. The technique used depends on various factors, including the equipment available, the surgeon’s experience, and the health and condition of the eye being treated. The Eye Center at Batal Specialist Complex is one of the most renowned eye centers in the Middle East.

Is cataract surgery painful?

You should not feel pain or significant discomfort during the procedure, even though you will be awake. Specific steps are taken to keep you comfortable: you are not placed under general anesthesia, but you will receive a mild sedative to help you relax, and numbing eye drops are used so you do not feel pain.

When the medication wears off after surgery, you may feel some minor discomfort or a scratchy sensation in the eye. This is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

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How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?

Recovery from cataract surgery is generally quick. Any discomfort or soreness typically improves within a few days, depending on the severity and type of cataract and on your body’s healing ability. Full recovery usually takes about four to six weeks.

It is essential to follow your doctor’s post‑operative instructions carefully and to visit Batal Specialist Complex for comprehensive eye checkups as scheduled.

How can I prepare for a smooth recovery after cataract surgery?

Right after the procedure, your vision will be limited or blurred, so you should arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home. You should avoid lifting heavy objects for at least one week after surgery and stay away from swimming pools for a week to reduce the risk of infection.

Can I exercise after cataract surgery?

You should avoid strenuous physical activity for at least one week after surgery. Activities that significantly increase pressure inside the eye can raise the risk of complications.

Will I need a new eyeglass prescription after surgery?

If you choose standard cataract surgery with a monofocal intraocular lens (IOL), you will most likely still need reading glasses or updated prescription glasses after surgery, especially for near tasks.

Is cataract surgery risky?

All surgical procedures carry some degree of risk. However, choosing the Eye Center at Batal Specialist Complex can help minimize these risks thanks to the expertise of its medical team and the use of modern surgical techniques.

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When is the right time to have cataract surgery?

If you are experiencing visual problems and have been diagnosed with cataracts, it may be the right time to consider surgery—especially if your vision is affecting daily activities such as driving, reading, or work.

What happens if cataracts are not treated?

Cataracts typically worsen over time, leading to progressive deterioration in vision. If left untreated, they can cause significant visual impairment and may eventually result in functional blindness in the affected eye.

Can cataract surgery be performed if I have glaucoma?

Yes, cataract surgery can be performed in patients with glaucoma (ocular hypertension or open‑angle/other types). However, extra caution is needed, and intraocular pressure must be closely monitored in glaucoma patients who undergo cataract surgery.

Does cataract surgery cause dry eye?

Cataract surgery itself does not cause dry eye disease. The procedure involves making two very small incisions in the cornea, which usually heal quickly without stitches. However, if you already have dry eye before surgery, this pre‑existing condition can affect the quality of your visual outcome and may make post‑operative symptoms more noticeable.

Can cataract surgery be done in both eyes at the same time?

If you have cataracts in both eyes, surgery is usually performed on one eye first and then, after a few weeks, on the second eye. This allows the first eye to heal and vision to stabilize before operating on the other eye. In certain carefully selected cases—such as some patients with high myopia—cataract surgery on both eyes may be performed on the same day.

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You should contact the Eye Center at Batal Specialist Complex in Saudi Arabia to book an appointment and learn more about cataracts and cataract surgery.