Actually, cataract surgeries are commonly very quick - like most surgeries, the shorter the time frame works in a positive way for recovery. Here's an AI summary - note the total time vs the time the surgeon actually spends implanting the IOL:

"Cataract surgery typically takes between 10 and 20 minutes. This includes the time for:
Preoperative preparation (e.g., numbing the eye)
Performing the surgery (removing the cloudy lens and implanting a new one)
Postoperative monitoring
In some cases, the surgery may take longer if there are complications or if the patient requires general anesthesia."