Short answer: For most senior patients, the best option is stitchless phaco (phacoemulsification) cataract surgery with a foldable lens implant, done as a day-care procedure under numbing drops or local anaesthesia. The main choice you make is the lens: a monofocal lens for clear distance vision (with reading glasses), or a premium lens — multifocal, EDOF or toric — to reduce dependence on glasses. Age alone is not a reason to avoid surgery; your general health and eye health decide the plan.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sharina Nanda, Eye Specialist & LASIK Surgeon, Kataria Eye & ENT Hospital, Jalandhar · Last reviewed: October 2026
At Kataria Eye & ENT Hospital, Jalandhar, cataract surgery is led by Dr. Sharina Nanda in an NABH-accredited hospital that has cared for families in Punjab since 1977.
Cataract surgery options for seniors
1. Surgery technique
- Phacoemulsification (stitchless phaco): the cloudy lens is broken up with ultrasound and removed through a tiny opening. It usually takes 20–30 minutes and most patients go home the same day.
- Laser-assisted cataract surgery: a laser makes some of the surgical steps for added precision. It is available at our hospital and suits selected patients.
2. Lens (IOL) choices
| Lens type | Distance (TV, driving) | Near (reading, phone) | Suits seniors who… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monofocal | Clear | Reading glasses needed | Want a simple, budget-friendly option and do not mind reading glasses |
| Multifocal | Clear | Clear | Want to read, use a phone and see far with minimal glasses |
| EDOF | Clear | Good for most tasks | Want a smooth range of vision with fewer night-time halos |
| Toric (any of the above) | Adds correction for astigmatism | — | Have a cylindrical number in their glasses |
See the full comparison on our premium lens cataract surgery in Jalandhar page.
Special considerations for older patients
- Diabetes: sugar should be reasonably controlled before surgery. A retina check is essential because diabetes can affect the retina as well as the lens. Read about diabetic eye problems.
- High blood pressure and heart conditions: keep taking your regular medicines unless your doctor tells you otherwise; BP is checked on the day of surgery.
- Blood thinners (aspirin, clopidogrel, etc.): do not stop them on your own. Tell the eye doctor and your physician, who will decide together.
- Glaucoma, retina disease or previous eye surgery: these can change which lens is suitable and what results to expect.
- Prostate medicines (such as tamsulosin): mention them — they can affect the pupil during surgery and the surgeon plans for it.
- Hearing or mobility problems: a family member can accompany you, and instructions are explained clearly before discharge.
Is a premium lens a good idea after 60 or 70?
It can be. Many active seniors who read, use phones, drive or travel are happy with multifocal or EDOF lenses. A premium lens may not be advised if you have significant macular degeneration, advanced glaucoma or other conditions that limit vision quality. In those cases a good monofocal lens is often the better choice. The decision is made after biometry (lens measurement) and a retina check.
What happens step by step
- Eye check-up: vision, eye pressure, cataract grading and retina examination
- Lens counselling and biometry: precise measurements and a one-to-one discussion about lens choice and cost
- Surgery day: stitchless phaco, usually 20–30 minutes, same-day discharge
- Follow-up visits: eye drops schedule and checks to make sure healing is on track
- Second eye: usually planned after the first eye has settled
Recovery tips for seniors
- Use eye drops exactly as prescribed — a family member can help
- Wear the protective shield or glasses given to you, especially while sleeping
- Avoid rubbing the eye, splashing water into it and dusty places for the first weeks
- Light walking and normal daily activities are usually fine; ask before bending or lifting heavy weights
- Contact the hospital immediately if you have increasing pain, sudden drop in vision or increasing redness
Frequently asked questions
Is there an age limit for cataract surgery?
No. Cataract surgery is routinely done for patients in their 70s, 80s and older. What matters is general health and whether the cataract is affecting daily life.
Should I wait for the cataract to become “ripe”?
No. Modern phaco surgery does not need the cataract to mature. Waiting too long can make surgery harder. Surgery is advised when blurred vision, glare or difficulty with night driving, reading or recognising faces starts affecting your routine.
Is cataract surgery painful for older people?
It is done under numbing drops or local anaesthesia, so most patients feel only mild pressure. You stay awake and can go home the same day.
How much does cataract surgery cost in Jalandhar?
The cost mainly depends on the lens chosen (monofocal, multifocal, EDOF or toric) and your eye measurements. Call 99146-00666 for an itemised estimate after your check-up.
Can both eyes be operated on the same day?
Usually each eye is done on a separate day so the first eye can heal and the lens choice for the second eye can be fine-tuned.
Book a cataract consultation in Jalandhar
Kataria Eye & ENT Hospital, 1, Mahavir Marg, Gujral Nagar, Jalandhar. OPD: Monday to Saturday, 10 am–2 pm and 5 pm–7 pm. Patients from across Punjab, J&K and Himachal can call ahead to plan visits together. Call or WhatsApp 99146-00666 or book online. More: cataract surgery in Jalandhar.
This article is for general information and does not replace a personal eye examination.
