Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in the United States each year with over 24 million people over the age of 40 affected by the condition. Cataracts are most commonly treated with surgery and over 3.5 million cataract surgeries are performed every year making it the most common surgical procedure. One of the most common questions asked before Cataratc Surgery is… Is it painful?
Is Cataract Surgery Painful?
Cataract surgery is typically not painful. Most cataract surgeries are performed using local anesthesia in the form of eye drops or an injection around the eye. This numbs the eye and the surrounding area, ensuring that the patient doesn’t feel pain during the procedure.
During the surgery, the patient may experience some sensations like pressure or mild discomfort, but these should not be painful. The surgery itself usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient can go home the same day.
After the surgery, the patient might experience some mild discomfort, itching, or a gritty sensation in the eye, but this is usually temporary and can be managed with prescribed eye drops. Serious pain or intense discomfort after cataract surgery is not common and should be reported to the eye surgeon immediately.
Cataract Surgery. Fast and Pain-free
In summary, while you may have some sensations during and after cataract surgery, it is generally not a painful procedure due to the use of local anesthesia. Most people find the discomfort to be manageable and temporary, with significant improvements in vision following the surgery.
Cataract Surgery in Long Beach – SoCal Eye
SoCal Eye cataract surgeons have been performing cataract surgery in Southern California since 1964 and are considered to be leaders in cataract treatment. We serve patients from LA and Orange Counties including Long Beach, Huntington Beach and Garden Grove. Treatment starts with a Comprehensive Eye Exam. Schedule an Appointment today at (562) 531-2020 or send us an Online Consultation Request
