Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful eye procedures worldwide. If you or a loved one have been told you need cataract surgery, it is natural to feel uncertain and to wonder what the process involves. Understanding how cataract surgery works, what recovery is like, and what results you can expect helps patients make informed choices.
At Ribera Care International in Spain, patients from around the world access advanced cataract surgery with expert medical teams and a full support service designed for international care.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts occur when the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred or dim vision. This condition usually develops with age, but it can also result from injury, long-term exposure to sunlight, certain medications such as steroids, or medical conditions like diabetes. While cataracts develop slowly, they eventually make it difficult to read, drive, recognize faces, or carry out daily activities safely.
Common symptoms of cataracts include:
- Cloudy or blurred vision
- Increased sensitivity to light or glare
- Difficulty seeing at night or in dim light
- Colors appearing faded or yellowed
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
The medical team will recommend surgery when symptoms start to impact daily activities. The absence of treatment for cataracts results in progressive vision deterioration which can eventually cause complete blindness.
Why Cataract Surgery Is Needed
The progression of cataracts makes surgical treatment the only option because they become uncorrectable by glasses or contact lenses. The only available treatment for cataracts requires surgical procedures. The primary goal of cataract surgery requires replacing the cloudy lens with an intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision.
Patients often decide to have surgery when:
- Vision loss affects driving, particularly at night
- Reading, cooking, or using a computer becomes difficult
- Glasses or brighter lighting no longer help
- Everyday safety is at risk, for example due to falls
Many patients report that after cataract surgery they can return to activities they thought they had lost forever, such as traveling independently, playing sports, or enjoying hobbies like painting or sewing.
The Cataract Surgery Procedure
Before the Surgery
The patient receives a complete eye examination before undergoing surgery. The ophthalmologist determines the best intraocular lens by assessing both the dimensions and form of the eye. The medical team at Ribera Care International delivers complete explanations to international patients through translation services and dedicated personal support to make them feel comfortable before their procedure.
During the Surgery
- Cataract surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure.
- Patients remain awake, but the eye is numbed with local anesthesia so that no pain is felt.
- The surgeon makes a tiny incision and uses ultrasound technology (phacoemulsification) to break up and remove the cloudy lens.
- A new intraocular lens is placed inside the eye.
The entire procedure requires less than 30 minutes to complete. The modern surgical methods eliminate the need for stitches because the incision heals automatically.
After the Surgery
The majority of patients start to see better within a short period of time ranging from hours to days. The first few nights require patients to use protective glasses or an eye shield for eye protection. The patient receives prescription eye drops which promote healing and stop infection from developing. Ribera Care International delivers detailed postoperative guidance and follow-up medical services to help international patients achieve safe recovery.
Types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
Choosing the right lens is one of the most important steps of cataract surgery:
- Monofocal IOLs: Correct vision at one distance (usually far). Patients may still need glasses for reading.
- Multifocal IOLs: Provide vision at multiple distances, reducing dependence on glasses.
- Toric IOLs: Designed for patients with astigmatism.
Your doctor will discuss the best option based on your lifestyle, visual needs, and eye health. Many international patients at Ribera Care International choose premium lenses to reduce their reliance on glasses after surgery.
Types of Cataract Surgery
- Traditional Cataract Surgery: The surgeon uses handheld instruments to remove the lens.
- Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery: A femtosecond laser is used for greater precision, often improving outcomes and reducing recovery time.
The two methods are secure and work well yet laser-assisted surgery provides extra advantages for patients who need treatment for complicated eye structures.
Recovery After Cataract Surgery
Recovery is usually quick and straightforward:
- Most patients resume normal activities such as reading, watching TV, or walking within a few days.
- It is important to avoid rubbing the eye, lifting heavy objects, or swimming until cleared by the doctor.
- Eye drops must be used regularly to promote healing and prevent infection.
- Full healing may take up to 4 weeks, although vision improvement is often immediate.
The follow-up appointments help doctors check that the eye recovers properly. Ribera Care International provides international patients with organized aftercare services that include post-surgery rehabilitation assistance and home country follow-up support.
Risks and Possible Complications
Cataract surgery like all surgical procedures has rare side effects which patients should be aware of. The possible risks of cataract surgery include postoperative infections and inflammation and retinal detachment and lens dislocation. The early detection of these complications makes them possible to treat effectively. The medical staff at Ribera Care International maintains rigorous safety procedures and conducts thorough patient checks to minimize risks and build trust with their patients.
Long-Term Results of Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery has a very high success rate. Once the cloudy lens is replaced with an intraocular lens, the cataract cannot return. Some patients may develop a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO) months or years later, but this is easily corrected with a quick, painless laser procedure.
Most patients enjoy long-lasting improvements in vision, allowing them to drive safely, read comfortably, and live more independently . Many even report improved mental well-being and quality of life after regaining their sight.
Why Choose Cataract Surgery in Spain with Ribera Care International
Selecting the right location for surgery becomes crucial for patients who need to travel abroad for their medical needs. Spain has emerged as a top medical tourism destination in Europe because it offers state-of-the-art hospitals together with skilled doctors and affordable treatment options.
At Ribera Care International, patients benefit from:
- Access to expert ophthalmologists trained in the latest surgical techniques
- State-of-the-art facilities and technology
- Multilingual support including interpreters and personal patient managers
- Comprehensive care that extends from diagnosis to recovery
You can also learn more about Ribera IMSKE Hospital in Valencia, a global leader in trauma and rehabilitation, in this related article: Ribera IMSKE Hospital in Valencia: A Global Leader in Trauma and Rehabilitation Care.
For a broader perspective on Spain as a destination for healthcare, visit this article about Medical Tourism in Spain.
The surgical procedure of cataract removal provides patients with safe and effective vision restoration which enhances their overall life quality. Patients who understand all aspects of the procedure and recovery and long-term outcomes will make their decision with greater assurance. Ribera Care International in Spain delivers world-class ophthalmology care to international patients through its dedication to individualized patient support.
If you are considering cataract surgery abroad, you can contact Ribera Care International today to receive guidance tailored to your needs.
FAQs About Cataract Surgery
Is cataract surgery painful?
No. The eye is numbed with local anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain. Some report a slight sensation of pressure or movement during the procedure, but it is not uncomfortable. After surgery, mild irritation or dryness is normal and usually resolves within a few days. Pain medication is rarely needed, and most patients describe the process as far easier than expected.
How soon can I travel after cataract surgery?
The majority of patients can travel after a few days from surgery when their follow-up appointment shows proper eye healing. International patients should stay in Spain for 5-7 days after surgery because their first postoperative check needs to happen before they can travel back home. The staff at Ribera Care International provides assistance with scheduling and travel arrangements to make patients feel secure about their air travel.
Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?
The type of intraocular lens used determines the outcome. Standard monofocal lenses provide distance vision correction only so patients will need reading glasses. Premium lenses including multifocal and toric lenses provide substantial reduction in the requirement for glasses. Your surgeon will present available options to select the lens that matches your daily needs.
How long do artificial lenses last?
The design of intraocular lenses makes them suitable for permanent use in the human eye. The lenses maintain their structure without deterioration so they remain in the eye permanently after surgery. The permanent nature of cataract surgery through intraocular lenses stands in contrast to glasses and contact lenses which need periodic replacement.
Can cataracts come back after surgery?
No. Once the cloudy lens is removed, cataracts cannot return. However, some patients develop posterior capsule opacification (PCO), where the thin membrane holding the lens becomes cloudy. The medical term for this condition is secondary cataract but YAG capsulotomy provides a simple painless laser procedure to fix it. The procedure leads to immediate vision improvement following its quick execution.
