Reading glasses after cataract surgery
With a standard lens implant set for distance, most people need about +2.50 to read.
Updated November 12, 2026 · General information, not medical advice.
Why you need reading glasses after cataract surgery
The surgery replaces the cloudy natural lens with a clear artificial one. The standard implant, called a monofocal lens, has one fixed focus. Most people choose to have it set for distance. A fixed lens cannot change focus for near, so close print needs glasses, whatever your age.
What strength is typical
With no focusing power left in the eye, the strength you need is simply one divided by the distance in meters.
| Task | Distance | Typical strength |
|---|---|---|
| Fine print, phone held close | 13 in (33 cm) | +3.00 |
| Book, tablet | 16 in (40 cm) | +2.50 |
| Laptop | 20 in (50 cm) | +2.00 |
| Desktop monitor | 26 in (66 cm) | +1.50 |
These figures assume your distance vision is sharp without glasses after the operation. If a little nearsightedness or astigmatism is left, your numbers will differ, and your eye doctor will give you a prescription.
When you may not need them
- Multifocal or extended-focus implants are designed to give some near vision. Many people with these read without glasses, at least in good light.
- Monovision sets one eye for distance and the other for near.
- Implants set for near. Some people choose to read without glasses and wear glasses for distance instead.
When to buy them
Vision keeps settling for some weeks after the operation. Surgeons usually check your eyes and prescribe glasses, if needed, about a month afterwards. Ask your surgeon before buying. Inexpensive readers are often suggested as a stopgap in the meantime.
If the two eyes differ
Between the first and second operation, or if the results are not the same, store-bought readers may suit only one eye. Tell your surgeon. Prescription reading glasses can be made with a different lens for each eye.
Once your vision is stable, the reading glasses test can help you pick a strength to try.