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Preparing for Cataract Surgery

If you are scheduled for cataract surgery with Mr. Wagh, here is what you need to know before and after your procedure. This guidance ensures your surgery and recovery go smoothly.

 

Eating, Drinking & Medications Local Anaesthetic:

If your surgery is under local anaesthetic, you may eat and drink as normal. Please continue all regular medications. If you feel anxious, a sedative may be offered—please discuss this at your pre-assessment or consultation.

 

General Anaesthetic:

If you're having general anaesthesia, you will need to fast for six hours before surgery (except small sips of water up to 2 hours before). Clear fasting instructions will be provided—please follow them carefully, as food in your stomach can cause serious complications.

 

Diabetic Patients:

Our pre-assessment nurses will give you instructions on how to manage your diabetic medication. Bring a sweet drink with you in case your blood sugar drops.

 

Blood Thinners (e.g. Warfarin):

You must have your INR test checked within a week before surgery. If it is high, we may need to repeat it on the day or reschedule the operation.

 

Water Tablets (Diuretics):

Take your morning dose after surgery unless advised otherwise.

📋 Bring a complete list of your current medications with you on the day.

 

Giving Consent:

Before surgery, you’ll be asked to sign a consent form confirming you understand the benefits, risks, and alternatives to surgery. If you’re unsure about anything, please ask your doctor or nurse.

📌 You have the right to change your mind at any point—even after signing the form.

 

What to Expect on the Day of Surgery

  • Please allow half a day if you are having local anaesthetic

  • Allow a full day for general anaesthetic

  • You must be able to lie flat and keep your head still for around 30 minutes

  • After surgery, you may have an eye pad and shield

  • You will receive your post-op eye drops (antibiotics and steroids), written instructions, and your next appointment details

🚗 Do not drive yourself—arrange for someone to take you home.

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Will I Feel Pain?

Most patients only experience mild discomfort on the night of surgery.

  • Use paracetamol or ibuprofen as needed

  • Your post-op eye drops reduce inflammation and discomfort

  • It is normal to feel grittiness, watering, and redness for a few days

  • If symptoms worsen or you have severe pain, contact us or attend eye A&E immediately

 

Aftercare & Recovery

  • Avoid driving until you have been reviewed in clinic

  • Time off work depends on your job—please ask your doctor

  • Use your eye drops exactly as prescribed

  • Avoid rubbing your eye or strenuous activity for the first few days

 

Will I Need Glasses After Surgery?

  • Most patients achieve excellent distance vision without glasses

  • You will likely need new reading glasses

  • Wait 4–6 weeks before visiting your optician

  • If your second eye also needs surgery, you may wish to wait until both are done before updating your glasses

Occasionally, a stronger glasses prescription or further procedure may be needed if your refractive outcome varies.

 

What If I Have a Problem?

Contact us immediately if you experience:

  • Severe pain

  • Increasing redness, pain, or vision blurring

  • Worsening vision after initial improvement

 

Will I Have a Follow-Up?

Yes. Most patients are reviewed within 2–4 weeks.

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