The short answer
Yes, people with diabetes have cataract surgery all the time, and it often matters more for them, because a cataract hides the retina from the eye doctor. The extra steps are a careful check of the retina before surgery, treating any diabetic eye disease first or alongside, reasonable sugar control around the operation, and closer follow-up afterwards, because swelling at the back of the eye is more likely.
Book cataract surgery, from ₦420,000Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Why diabetes changes the plan
Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, the seeing layer at the back of the eye. This is diabetic retinopathy. People with diabetes also tend to get cataracts earlier. A thick cataract blocks the doctor's view, so retinopathy can be missed or left untreated. Removing the cataract lets the retina be checked and treated properly.
Before surgery
- A dilated examination of the retina, and sometimes a scan of the macula, the centre of the retina
- Treatment first if there is active retinopathy or swelling at the macula, often laser or injections
- Recent blood sugar readings and an HbA1c if available. Very high sugar may mean waiting while it is brought under control
- Your diabetes medicines reviewed, with clear instructions for the morning of surgery
- Blood pressure checked and controlled
After surgery
The routine is the same as for anyone: drops on time, a shield at night, no rubbing, no dirty water in the eye. The difference is follow-up. Swelling at the centre of the retina after surgery is more likely in people with diabetes, so you may be given an extra anti-inflammatory drop and asked to come back for checks. Keep every appointment.
Infection after any eye surgery is rare but serious. Worsening pain, worsening sight or an eye getting redder means calling your surgeon the same day.
What result to expect
If the retina is healthy, the result is usually as good as in someone without diabetes. If there is retinopathy, how well you see after the cataract is removed depends on the retina, not just on the operation. Your surgeon should tell you honestly before you agree.
What it costs on Mezo
Standard monofocal lens, biometry and both post-operative reviews included.
Common questions
What sugar level is too high for cataract surgery?
There is no single number that applies to everyone. Your surgeon and the doctor who manages your diabetes decide together. Bring your recent readings and your HbA1c to the assessment.
Should I take my diabetes tablets on the morning of surgery?
Follow the written instructions you are given. They depend on your medicines, especially insulin, and on whether you are asked to fast.
Will cataract surgery make my diabetic retinopathy worse?
In some people, retinopathy can progress after surgery, which is why it is treated first if active and why follow-up matters. Leaving a cataract in place also stops the retina from being treated, which carries its own risk.
How much does it cost?
On Mezo cataract surgery starts from ₦420,000 per eye. Treating diabetic eye disease found at the assessment is priced separately, and you see every price in writing first.
The procedures
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Get one written price for your cataract operation
Tell us the operation and whether you will pay cash or through your HMO. Asking is free. A coordinator calls you back, and the written all-in quote follows the surgeon's assessment, so you know the full price before you commit.
Get a fixed surgery quoteSources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Cataracts in adults: management. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
- Diabetic retinopathy. NHS. Patient information.
- What is diabetic retinopathy?. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Patient information.
Links last checked 23 October 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Where your centre's instructions differ from this guide, follow theirs.