Brasília – January 29, 2026 – Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will undergo cataract surgery on his left eye this Friday, according to an official statement released by the Presidency. This planned procedure underscores the importance of proactive healthcare, even for world leaders navigating demanding schedules.
President Lula to Undergo Routine Eye Surgery
The 79-year-old president will have the surgery performed in Brasília following thorough medical evaluations completed on Thursday.
- President Lula da Silva is scheduled for cataract surgery on his left eye this Friday.
- The surgery will take place in Brasília after comprehensive medical assessments.
- This procedure is part of the president’s regular medical follow-up and is not expected to disrupt his agenda significantly.
- President Lula previously underwent treatment for an intracranial hemorrhage in December 2024.
The Presidency confirmed that President Lula remained at the Granja do Torto official residence and continued to fulfill his work commitments in the lead-up to the surgery. He recently returned from an official trip to Panama, where he engaged in meetings and administrative tasks upon his return to the Brazilian capital.
What exactly is a cataract, and why is it common with age? Cataracts occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision. They are a very common condition, particularly as people age, and surgery is a highly effective treatment to restore clear sight.
Official information indicates the surgery will focus solely on the left eye, and the duration of the procedure has not been disclosed. Details regarding President Lula’s full return to public activities are also pending.
Past Medical Episodes
This upcoming surgery follows a more serious health episode in December 2024, when President Lula received surgical treatment for an intracranial hemorrhage at a hospital in São Paulo. The hemorrhage stemmed from a fall he experienced in October 2024 within the presidential residence. Initial treatment addressed the injury, but subsequent scans revealed a hematoma requiring surgical drainage. Medical reports confirmed no lasting neurological or motor impairments from the procedure.
The December health scare prompted temporary adjustments to the president’s official schedule, including the cancellation of some international engagements. He subsequently resumed his public duties, continuing with regular medical follow-up.
A History of Medical Care
President Lula’s medical history includes treatment for laryngeal cancer in 2011, hip surgery to address osteoarthritis in 2023, and a diagnosis of labyrinthitis – causing episodes of vertigo – in 2025. Since his hip surgery, the president has diligently maintained a two-hour daily exercise routine, a practice the Presidency emphasizes as integral to his overall physical well-being. His participation in the October electoral process remains a key component of his institutional calendar, and this Friday’s surgery is being carefully integrated into that framework.
Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures worldwide, with a high success rate.
