Optimising the Ocular Surface Before Cataract Surgery
Clear vision starts with a healthy surface.
At our practice, we believe that exceptional cataract surgery outcomes begin long before the day of the procedure. One of the most important, yet often overlooked, steps is ensuring that the ocular surface is healthy and stable.
A compromised tear film or undiagnosed dry eye can lead to:
- Inaccurate measurements for intraocular lenses.
- Suboptimal visual results.
- Increased risk of postoperative dry eye.
- Reduced patient satisfaction.
A proactive, preventative approach delivers clearer vision and smoother recovery.
Why Ocular Surface Optimisation Matters
Recent research highlights that dry eye disease (DED) is extremely common in patients preparing for cataract surgery, but also frequently underdiagnosed.
Optimising the ocular surface before surgery can:
- Improve the accuracy of lens calculations.
- Enhance visual quality after surgery.
- Reduce refractive surprises.
- Lower the risk of postoperative discomfort.
- Support long-term tear film health.
Our approach aligns with this growing evidence: we integrate detailed ocular surface evaluation and targeted treatment into every cataract surgery preparation plan.
What the Latest Research Shows
A recent publication in Ophthalmology and Therapy, “A Practical Approach for Optimizing Ocular Surface Status Before Cataract Surgery to Improve Visual Outcomes and Reduce the Risk of Postoperative Dry Eye,” provides a structured, evidence-based framework for this essential step.
The paper emphasises:
- Early identification of ocular surface disease.
- Risk stratification.
- Advanced diagnostics.
- Individualised treatment plans.
- Routine integration of ocular surface care into the cataract workflow.
This multimodal strategy significantly improves surgical precision and long-term visual outcomes.
Publication Credits
This important work was authored by an international team of experts:
Giulia Coco, Elisabeth M. Messmer, Christopher E. Starr, José Alvaro Pereira-Gomes, Sihem Lazreg, Nikolina Budimlija, Carlo Nucci, and Giuseppe Giannaccare.
Published in Ophthalmology and Therapy (2025).
Our Commitment to Preventative Eye Care
As a preventative practice, we are committed to adopting the very best evidence-based strategies. Ensuring a healthy ocular surface is not optional, it is a vital part of delivering the visual clarity our patients expect.
If you are considering cataract surgery, we invite you to book a comprehensive ocular surface assessment with a member of our Dry Eye team.