Cataract Surgery
in 2026

The femtosecond laser can assist with certain preliminary steps of the operation, but it does not replace the ultrasound used in phacoemulsification, which remains necessary to aspirate the fragmented lens. Phacoemulsification remains the worldwide gold-standard technique. Laser-assisted surgery has not demonstrated clinical superiority over standard phacoemulsification in large-scale studies.

Yes, and it is often an opportunity to correct a significant portion of the myopia through the choice of IOL. Very long eyes (axial length > 26 mm) require specific biometric formulas to avoid post-operative refractive error. Furthermore, high myopia is associated with a slightly increased risk of retinal detachment, a point discussed during the consultation.

Yes, and it may even be essential when the cataract threatens the vision of the only functioning eye. The surgery itself is technically identical, but the decision-making process is more rigorous: the benefit-risk ratio is analysed with particular care, and the pre-operative consultation is more thorough.

The surgeon is aware that any complication, however rare, can have major functional consequences on the patient’s quality of life. Prior information and informed consent are of paramount importance in this context. Coordination with other specialists may also be considered depending on the situation.

No. The procedure is performed under topical anaesthesia (anaesthetic eye drops), with no injection and no general anaesthesia. You may feel a slight sensation of pressure or bright light, but no pain. Mild discomfort or watering of the eye in the hours that follow is possible.

No, it is not mandatory. The operation is based on a medical and functional indication: if only one eye is affected, or if the cataract in the second eye does not yet impair vision, there is no obligation to operate on it. Many patients have only one eye treated and are perfectly satisfied.

When both eyes have a significant cataract, your surgeon will generally recommend operating on them a few weeks apart. Leaving a large imbalance in correction between the two eyes — especially if the intraocular lens corrects myopia or hyperopia on one side — can become uncomfortable in daily life. The decision is always made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account your visual acuity, your needs and your refractive goals.

Yes, but the IOL calculation is less precise. Standard biometric formulas systematically underestimate the required power in patients who have undergone corneal refractive surgery. Specific post-refractive formulas (Barrett True K, Kane post-refractive) are essential.

Yes, and it is often beneficial. Cataract surgery frequently leads to a moderate reduction in intraocular pressure, which can help stabilise glaucoma. It does not replace glaucoma treatment, but both conditions can be managed together. The condition of the optic nerve and the visual field are assessed before any decision is made.

Diabetes does not contraindicate surgery but does require certain precautions. Poor glycaemic control can slow healing and increase the risk of infection. In cases of associated diabetic retinopathy, visual recovery may be limited regardless of the surgical outcome. A pre-operative retinal assessment is performed as standard.

Yes. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia with eye drops, without general anaesthesia. You remain conscious, lying down and relaxed. A mild anxiolytic may be offered as premedication if you are particularly anxious. The surgeon communicates with you throughout the operation to inform you of each step.

A lid retractor (speculum) holds the eyelids open, preventing them from closing involuntarily. It is perfectly normal for the eye to move slightly: the surgeon anticipates these micro-movements. In the event of a more sudden movement, the surgeon pauses briefly before resuming. No forced restraint is needed.