Preparing for cataract surgery

Pre-operative assessment

The surgical team measures your eye to choose the lens implant strength and checks your general health. Blood pressure, diabetes control and heart medicines matter. Mention aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin or newer anticoagulants — do not stop them yourself.

The week before surgery

Your clinic will give local instructions. Common advice includes:

• Continue usual medicines unless told otherwise
• Start prescribed antibiotic or anti-inflammatory drops if supplied
• Avoid eye makeup on the day of surgery
• Plan soft foods if you expect a long wait at the hospital
• Arrange transport — you should not drive yourself home

On the day

Cataract surgery is usually done awake with numbing drops or a small injection. It takes around fifteen minutes. You may see light and feel water but should not feel pain. Most people go home the same day with a shield or glasses to protect the eye.

After surgery

Use drops as directed, avoid rubbing the eye, and keep water out for a few days if advised. Mild grittiness is normal. Report sudden pain, increasing redness or vision loss immediately — these are not typical recovery symptoms.