Is eye lens replacement surgery painful?

While there may be some discomfort following eye lens replacement surgery, the surgery is performed under local anesthesia and is not painful. Most post-operative pain is managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, according to Mayo Clinic.

Eye lens replacement involves removing an eye lens affected by cataracts and/or nearsightedness and replacing it with an intraocular lens implant, states WebMD. After surgery, vision usually improves within a few days, though patients may experience itching and mild discomfort, notes Mayo Clinic. To prevent infection and control eye pressure, a doctor may prescribe eye drops or other medication. Patients generally recover completely within eight weeks, states Mayo Clinic.