Here, we’ll explore cataract surgery anxiety, what happens if you experience a panic attack during cataract surgery, and how expert care, reassurance and preparation can help you feel more at ease.
Is it Normal to Feel Anxious Before Cataract Surgery?
Feeling anxious before cataract surgery is incredibly common, particularly if you’ve never had eye surgery before. For many people, the thought of someone operating on their eye naturally causes concern.
Common worries include:
- Having a panic attack during surgery.
- Feeling pain during the procedure.
- Being awake while the operation takes place.
- Accidentally blinking or moving.
- Feeling claustrophobic under the surgical drape.
These concerns are completely understandable. The good news is that at iLase Professor Mohammed Muhtaseb has helped hundreds, if not thousands, of patients who have had exactly the same worries.
Can You Have a Panic Attack During Cataract Surgery?
Although it doesn’t happen often, it is possible to feel overwhelmed or experience a panic attack during cataract surgery.
The important thing to remember is that you’re never expected to simply “cope” on your own.
Because cataract surgery is usually performed under local anaesthetic, you’ll remain awake and able to communicate throughout the procedure. If you begin to feel anxious, tell the team immediately so they can pause, reassure, and support you through the procedure.
What Happens if You Start to Panic During Cataract Surgery?
If you begin feeling anxious or overwhelmed during cataract surgery, the first step is simply to let the team know. You don’t need to remain silent or worry about inconveniencing anyone.
Depending on the situation, your surgical team may:
- Talk you through what’s happening in a calm, reassuring way.
- Encourage you to focus on slow, steady breathing.
- Pause briefly if it is safe to do so.
- Check that you’re comfortable and not experiencing any pain.
- Continue only once you feel settled again.
Because cataract surgery is carried out under local anaesthetic, you remain able to communicate throughout the procedure.
Can I be given something to help me relax?
Many patients find that simply understanding the procedure is enough to ease their worries. However, for people with significant anxiety, a mild or moderate sedative may be offered if it is appropriate for their health and the type of surgery being performed.
Professor Mohammed Muhtaseb will take the time to discuss whether this is suitable for you and explain the benefits and any potential risks.
What Are the Chances of Cataract Surgery Going Wrong?
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful operations performed today, with a very high success rate for improving vision.
At iLase, Professor Mohammed Muhtaseb has performed thousands of cataract procedures and has an excellent safety record, with outcomes that consistently exceed national standards.
- 7,000+ cataract operations performed over 27+ years
- 100% complication free*
- 0% infection rate*
- Zero “Never Events”
- 96% patients achieve results with +/- 1.00 dioptres of target refraction.
*Patients completed without complication of posterior capsule rupture (PCR). Based on data between January 2024 – October 2025. Zero incidence rate of endophthalmitis in Prof Muhtaseb cataract patients, March 2019 – December 2024. Zero Incidence rate of serious, wholly preventable safety errors in Prof Muhtaseb patients, since his career began in 2006.
What actually happens on the day of cataract surgery?
One of the best ways to reduce anxiety is to know exactly what to expect. While every patient’s treatment is tailored to their individual needs, your cataract surgery journey at iLase typically follows these simple steps:
1. A warm welcome
When you arrive, our dedicated team will welcome you and help you settle into our comfortable private pre-operative area. We’ll guide you through every stage of your visit, answer any questions and make sure you feel relaxed before your procedure.
2. Final checks with Professor Mohammed Muhtaseb
Our nursing team will perform a few routine checks and prepare your eye for surgery. You’ll then meet with Professor Mohammed Muhtaseb, who will explain the procedure, answer any final questions and ensure you’re completely happy before treatment begins. If you’re having a toric lens to correct astigmatism, precise measurements will also be taken to ensure it’s perfectly aligned.
3. A comfortable, pain-free procedure
Your eye will be numbed using anaesthetic eye drops, so the procedure should be painless. Professor Mohammed Muhtaseb will gently remove your cloudy natural lens and replace it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The surgery usually takes approximately 15 minutes, and our team will talk to you throughout to help you feel calm and reassured.
4. Recovery and aftercare
After surgery, you’ll relax in our recovery area with light refreshments while our nurses make sure you’re feeling well before you go home. Before you leave, we’ll explain how to use your eye drops, provide detailed aftercare instructions and arrange your follow-up appointment. You’ll also receive Professor Mohammed Muhtaseb’s contact details should you have any questions during your recovery.
5. Go Home with new vision
Once you are safely discharged, you can go home to rest and begin enjoying the life-changing results of your successful surgery. We’ll look forward to seeing you at your follow-up appointment to celebrate your clearer vision.
What if I Move or Blink During Cataract Surgery?
This is one of the most common questions patients ask, but there’s no need to worry. A small instrument called a lid speculum gently holds your eyelids open throughout the procedure, so you cannot accidentally blink.
Small eye movements are expected, but if you need to cough, sneeze or adjust your position, simply let the team know if you can, and they’ll advise you on the safest way to proceed.
How to Overcome Your Fear of Cataract Surgery
Although feeling nervous is normal, there are several things you can do to feel more confident before your cataract surgery.
1. Learn about the procedure
Understanding what happens before, during and after cataract surgery can remove much of the fear of the unknown. Your consultation is the perfect opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns.
2. Talk openly about your worries
Whether you’re worried about pain, panic attacks or simply feeling anxious, don’t keep it to yourself. Sharing your concerns early allows your surgeon to provide reassurance and tailor your care to your needs.
3. Practise relaxation techniques
Simple breathing exercises, mindfulness or gentle meditation can help reduce anxiety before your appointment. Slow, controlled breathing can also help if you feel nervous on the day of surgery.
4. Bring someone you trust
Having a friend or family member accompany you to your appointment can provide reassurance before and after your procedure and help you feel more relaxed.
5. Focus on the benefits
Rather than concentrating on the operation itself, think about what clearer vision will allow you to do. Cataract surgery can make everyday activities such as reading, watching television, recognising faces and driving (once you’re medically cleared) much easier and more enjoyable.
6. Read positive reviews
Reach out to others who have undergone cataract surgery. Their experiences and positive outcomes can provide reassurance and help alleviate anxiety. Our patient reviews will give you more information.
7. Choose an experienced cataract surgeon
Perhaps the greatest reassurance comes from knowing you’re in expert hands.
Choosing an experienced consultant ophthalmologist means you’ll receive not only 5-star treatment but also the understanding and reassurance needed to feel confident throughout your treatment.
At iLase, Professor Mohammed Muhtaseb has helped thousands of patients restore clearer vision through cataract surgery, taking time to ensure every patient feels informed, listened to and supported.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cataract surgery painful?
No. We use safe, anaesthetic drops and a cannula to completely numb the eye, so you shouldn’t feel any pain. You may notice gentle pressure or movement, but you shouldn’t feel any pain.
Are you awake during cataract surgery?
Yes. Most cataract surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, meaning you’ll be awake but comfortable. You’ll be able to communicate with Professor Muhtaseb throughout the procedure.
How aware are you during cataract surgery?
You’ll be aware that surgery is taking place, but you won’t see the operation itself. Most patients notice bright lights, colours or movement rather than detailed images.
Can you be put to sleep for cataract surgery?
General anaesthetic is rarely required for cataract surgery. However, in certain circumstances, such as severe anxiety or specific medical conditions, it may be considered. Professor Mohammed Muhtaseb will discuss the best option for you during your initial consultation.
Do they give you something to relax you for cataract surgery?
If you’re particularly anxious, a mild sedative may sometimes be offered. This isn’t necessary for everyone, but it’s worth discussing during your consultation if you’re concerned.
What happens if I move, cough or sneeze during cataract surgery?
Small eye movements are expected and are carefully managed. If you need to cough, move or sneeze, tell the team if possible. They’ll guide you and pause if it’s safe to do so.
Will I feel claustrophobic during cataract surgery?
Some patients worry about the surgical drape, but it is lifted off the face and designed to allow you to breathe comfortably while maintaining a sterile operating environment. We can lift the drape very high up off the face and tape it to the microscope. Most people find it much less restrictive than they expected.
How long does cataract surgery take?
The operation itself usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes, although you’ll be at the clinic for 1.5 hours to allow time for preparation and recovery.
Is cataract surgery safe?
Yes. Cataract surgery has an excellent safety record and is one of the most commonly performed operations in the UK. Serious complications are uncommon, particularly when surgery is carried out by an experienced ophthalmic surgeon.
Can I talk to the surgeon during cataract surgery?
Yes. Because you’ll usually be awake, you can communicate with Professor Muhtaseb throughout the operation. If you feel anxious or uncomfortable, simply let him know.
Can I have cataract surgery if I suffer from anxiety?
Yes. Many people with anxiety successfully undergo cataract surgery every year. The key is to discuss how you’re feeling beforehand so we can provide additional reassurance and discuss whether extra support, such as a mild sedative, may be appropriate.
Book Your Cataract Consultation
If worries about cataract surgery have been putting you off seeking treatment, the first step is simply having a conversation.
At iLase, Professor Mohammed Muhtaseb is one of the UK’s leading cataract surgeons, with extensive experience treating patients who feel anxious about eye surgery. He understands that reassurance is just as important as surgical expertise and takes the time to explain every stage of your treatment, answer your questions and ensure you feel completely comfortable before proceeding.
Cataracts don’t just affect your vision – they can affect your confidence, independence and enjoyment of everyday life. With expert care, modern surgical techniques and a personalised approach, cataract surgery can help you see clearly again.
Book a consultation with Professor Mohammed Muhtaseb today and take the first step towards clearer vision with confidence.
