A 21-year-old member asked:
what happens generally before a cataract surgery operation?
5 doctor answers • 13 doctors weighed in
Dr. Robert Changanswered
Specializes in Ophthalmology
Anesthesia, dilation: In the preop holding area, usually topical drops are administered to dilate the operative eye, and prophylaxis to prevent infection. Once in the operating room, local / topical anesthesia is given. The eye is typically cleaned with betadine and draped with a small opening . A speculum is placed to keep the eyelid open, and usually you need to look directly at the microscope light, holding still.
6.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Andrew Shatzanswered
Ophthalmology 26 years experience
A brief summary: Prior to the procedure you are given an I.V. And your eye is dilated. You will also be given antibiotic eye drops. Sedation is given to you just before the procedure starts and your face is cleaned and a sterile drape covers everything but your eye. By this time, you should not have any memory of the procedure. There should also be no discomfort at all.
6.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Douglas Liva commented
Ophthalmology 40 years experience
I prefer lighter sedation where memory is not compromised
Sep 7, 2013
Dr. Jay Bradleyanswered
LASIK Surgery 18 years experience
Complete eye exam: Prior to cataract surgery, your eye surgeon will perform a complete eye exam to determine if your cataracts need to be removed. If needed, you will be scheduled for surgery. On the day of surgery, your eye is dilated and sedation medicines are used to relax you. Most cataract surgeons now use topical anesthesia to eliminate any pain. Surgery takes 5-10 minutes in most cases.
5.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Michael Hamanswered
Ophthalmology 27 years experience
Cataract surgery: After it is determined that you are going to have cataract surgery, you will have pre-operative measurements that are used to calculate the new lens implant power. You will be given instruction on how to use the drops and take care of the eye. You arrive for surgery and an IV is started, meds given to relax you. The surgery is performed and it should be painless.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Sandra Lora Cremersanswered
Ophthalmology 25 years experience
Drops given: Drops and some relaxation pills are usually given before cataract surgery. Blood pressure & vital signs are checked. More info: eyedoc2020.blogspot.com
3.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
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Last updated Dec 22, 2018
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