Cataract surgery is a common and highly effective procedure that removes a clouded natural lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). It is one of the safest and most frequently performed surgeries worldwide, with a high success rate in restoring clear vision.

One of the most common questions patients ask is: How long does cataract surgery take? The short answer is that the actual surgery itself usually takes around 10 to 20 minutes per eye, but the total time spent at the clinic or hospital, including Cataract Surgery preparation and post-operative care, can range from two to three hours.

In this article, we will break down the different stages of cataract surgery, factors that influence its duration, and what to expect before and after the procedure.

Breakdown of Cataract Surgery Duration

1. Pre-Surgery Preparation (30–60 Minutes)

Before the actual procedure, patients undergo pre-operative preparations, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. This includes:

• Eye dilation: Special eye drops are used to widen the pupil, allowing better access to the natural lens.
• Numbing the eye: Local anesthesia (eye drops or an injection) is applied to prevent discomfort during surgery.
• Final eye measurements: If not done in prior consultations, doctors may confirm eye measurements to ensure the correct intraocular lens (IOL) selection.
• Discussion with the surgeon: The doctor will review the procedure and answer any last-minute questions.

2. Actual Cataract Surgery (10–20 Minutes per Eye)

The surgical process is quick and painless, typically lasting 10 to 20 minutes per eye. The steps include:

1. Tiny incision: The surgeon makes a small incision in the cornea.
2. Lens removal: Using ultrasound technology (phacoemulsification), the clouded lens is broken into small pieces and gently removed.
3. IOL Implantation: A clear artificial intraocular lens is inserted in place of the natural lens.
4. Incision Closure: The incision is self-healing and does not require stitches in most cases.

3. Post-Surgery Recovery (30–60 Minutes)

After the procedure, patients are moved to a recovery area for observation for about 30 to 60 minutes. During this time:

• The doctor checks for any immediate complications.
• The patient is given protective eye shields and post-operative care instructions.
• A family member or friend must drive the patient home since vision may be blurry initially.

Factors That May Affect Surgery Time

While the standard procedure takes about 10–20 minutes per eye, some factors can influence the duration:

• Surgical Complexity: Patients with advanced cataracts or other eye conditions (such as astigmatism) may require additional time.
• Type of IOL Used: Premium lenses, such as multifocal or toric lenses, may take slightly longer to position.
• Patient Cooperation: Patients who have difficulty staying still during surgery may extend the procedure time.

Cataract surgery itself is a quick, safe, and efficient procedure, typically lasting 10 to 20 minutes per eye. However, when considering preparation and recovery, patients should plan to spend two to three hours at the clinic. If you are considering cataract surgery, consult with your eye specialist to understand what to expect based on your individual needs.