How to prepare for cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is usually a day-case procedure, which means you come to the clinic for your appointment and go home after the operation. [1] Taking care of a few practical details beforehand can help you feel more at ease and make the day run more smoothly.

How long does cataract surgery take?

The operation itself is usually brief, but you may spend several hours at the clinic. Time is needed to prepare you for surgery, often including drops to dilate your pupil, any necessary checks and paperwork. You will also stay for a short period of observation afterwards.

It is best to keep most of the day free and avoid making other appointments afterwards. The operating schedule and preparation time can change, so allowing extra time will save you an unnecessary rush.

Arrange your journey home

Do not drive yourself home after surgery. Your vision may be temporarily blurred by the drops used to dilate your pupil, and you may have a dressing or shield over the operated eye. Medicines given during the procedure may also affect your ability to drive. [2, 3]

Ideally, ask someone you trust to collect you. If this is not possible, contact the clinic in advance to discuss a safe way to get home. If you have sedation or a general anaesthetic, you will need someone to accompany you—a taxi ride on your own is not a substitute. [3] Patient guidance also advises against driving immediately after cataract surgery. [2]

The person accompanying you can also help collect your prescribed eye drops and assist with tasks that involve bending down or lifting heavier items.

Can I eat and drink before cataract surgery?

Most cataract operations are performed under local anaesthesia. [4] If your eye is numbed with drops and no sedation is planned, fasting may not be necessary. However, always check your clinic’s instructions about eating and drinking. [5] Different rules may apply if you are having intravenous sedation or a general anaesthetic. [3]

Follow the instructions given by your own clinic. If you are unsure whether you need to fast, call and ask. Do not skip food “just to be safe” without checking first—this is particularly important if you have diabetes.

Do not stop your medicines without advice

At your preoperative assessment, tell your doctor about everything you take. This includes prescription medicines, eye drops, insulin, supplements, anticoagulants and antiplatelet medicines. [3]

Bring an up-to-date list of your medicines and doses. Do not stop any medicine on your own. If a change is needed before surgery, your doctor will explain exactly what to do. [1, 4]

Use antibiotic eye drops if prescribed

If your doctor has prescribed antibiotic eye drops before surgery, use them exactly as instructed. Your doctor will tell you which drops to use, how often to use them and when to start.

Different clinics may follow different protocols, so follow the instructions you have been given. Do not start antibiotic drops yourself or use drops left over from a previous operation.

What should I wear on the day?

Wash as usual on the day of your operation, but do not wear make-up or apply creams to your face or around your eyes. It is best to leave jewellery and other valuables at home.

Choose loose, comfortable clothing. A zip-up top, a button-front shirt or a top with a wide neckline will be easier to take off without pulling it close to your eye. Wear stable shoes that are easy to put on.

Some clinics ask you to bring a separate pair of indoor shoes. Check the information provided at your assessment or ask the reception team beforehand.

What should I bring?

Before leaving home, check that you have:

• proof of identity;
• the results of any tests you were asked to have;
• completed forms and medical questionnaires;
• an up-to-date list of your medicines;
• relevant medical records, including details of previous operations;
• the discharge summary from surgery on your other eye, if it was performed at a different clinic;
• the phone number of the person collecting you;
• sunglasses for the journey home.

There is no need to pack a large bag. Cataract surgery usually does not require an overnight stay. [1]

What if I feel unwell before surgery?

Let the clinic know before you travel if you become unwell. In particular, call if you develop:

• a fever or a troublesome cough;
• an infection that requires antibiotics;
• significant redness in your eye;
• pus-like discharge from your eye;
• a sudden change in your general health.

This does not necessarily mean your operation will need to be postponed. However, that decision should be made by a doctor, so it is best to report any concerns in advance. [1, 4]

This article is for educational purposes and does not replace an individual consultation with an ophthalmologist. Preparation instructions can vary between clinics. Always follow the individual instructions given at your preoperative assessment.

References

1. Polish Ophthalmological Society. Guidelines for perioperative care in cataract surgery in Poland [in Polish]. Clinical guidelines. Full text.

2. NHS. Cataract surgery. Updated 6 March 2025. Patient information. NHS guidance.

3. Dobson G et al. Guidelines to the Practice of Anesthesia – Revised Edition 2021. Can J Anaesth. 2021;68:92–130. Full text.

4. Sweitzer BJ, Rajan N, Schell D, Gayer S, Eckert S, Joshi GP. Preoperative Care for Cataract Surgery: The Society for Ambulatory Anesthesia Position Statement. Anesth Analg. 2021;133(6):1431–1436. DOI: 10.1213/ANE.0000000000005652.

5. Guerrier G et al. The StarvAnx Study—Comparison Between the Effects of Non-fasting Vs. Fasting Strategy on Surgical Outcomes, Anxiety and Pain in Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery Under Topical Anesthesia: A Randomized, Crossover, Controlled Trial. Front Med (Lausanne). 2022;9:916225. DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.916225.