Royals Queen Elizabeth Underwent Surgery Last Month — and It Explains Why She's Been Wearing Sunglasses Queen Elizabeth is stocking up on shades for a reason By Erin Hill Erin Hill Twitter Senior News Editor, PEOPLE People Editorial Guidelines Published on June 8, 2018 10:30 AM Share Tweet Pin Email Queen Elizabeth is stocking up on shades for a reason. The monarch, who has been spotted wearing sunglasses recently, has been recovering from cataract surgery, Buckingham Palace confirmed Friday. “I can confirm that The Queen successfully underwent a short, planned procedure to treat a cataract last month,” a palace spokesperson said. Cataract surgery is performed to treat cataracts, which can cause blurry vision and increase the glare from lights. The procedure, which is common and generally safe, is typically performed by an ophthalmologist on an outpatient basis. PA Images/Sipa USA Colors may seem brighter after surgery because the patient is looking through a new, clear lens, which is likely why the Queen has been sporting a rare pair of shades. The surgery hasn’t slowed the Monarch down in the least, but it does explain her new look. The Queen has been wearing dark sunglasses during recent events, including two garden parties at Buckingham Palace last month. REX/Shutterstock The royal is rarely seen wearing sunglasses at events, as it hides her eyes when she’s greeting guests, but it proved the perfect accessory to assist with her recovery from cataract surgery. Can’t get enough of PEOPLE’s Royals coverage? Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! Karwai Tang/WireImage And if she wants some tips on a new pair of shades, her new granddaughter-in-law, Meghan Markle, knows the perfect pair. Her classic tortoiseshell sunglasses from Finlay London Percy were her eyewear of choice for her first official appearance with Prince Harry, at the Invictus Games in Toronto in September 2017.