A. Most operations for cataract are performed under local anaesthetic. This is a method of pain prevention usually given by eye drops or injection around the eye. When I have had my cataract operation, the cloudy lens will be removed from inside my eye. I know from looking at the diagram that the lens helps to focus the light rays to the back of my eye. The usual method for cataract operation involves removing the human lens in the eye and replacing it permanently with a clear plastic implant lens.
Many people still require reading with an intraocular lens implant.
However, for some individuals a plastic lens implant is not suitable. Most operations for cataract are performed on a day care basis. This means that you are admitted to hospital, have your operation and are discharged home all in the same day. You do not stay overnight in hospital. For a minority of patients an overnight stay is needed.