Are You Put to Sleep During Cataract Surgery?

If the lens inside your eye has become cloudy, you may want to consider cataract surgery. During cataract surgery in Rapid City, Dr. Wright removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with an artificial lens (called an intraocular lens – IOL) to restore clear vision. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and does not require an overnight stay in a hospital or other care facility.  The procedure itself usually lasts less than 15 minutes and is virtually painless. 

Cataract surgery is one of the most common medical procedures performed. The operation has been around for many years and has evolved thanks to modern technology and ongoing research.

Though the technology has evolved, the basic principles of the procedure have remained the same. Although we ask that patients arrive about an hour before their procedure, cataract surgery typically only takes about 5-7 minutes to complete from start to finish!

Once you are settled, your eye surgeon will begin by putting numbing eye drops in your eye. The eye drops act as a local anesthetic.

As you blink, the drops spread over your eye, numbing the surface. This is all that is needed for the surgery to proceed without pain.

Making Incisions

When the eye is completely numb, the surgeon will use an instrument to hold your eye open while they operate. The surgeon then makes very small incisions through two layers of your eye to reach the lens.

Cataract surgery patients often wonder if they will be sedated for the procedure. Most cataract surgeries are performed under a local anesthetic. This means that most patients are awake during their cataract surgery. This eliminates risks associated with general anesthesia (where you are put to sleep) and enables Dr. Wright to communicate with you during your procedure.

You will be given an oral medication prior to the procedure to help you relax during your surgery. Before you are taken into surgery, the area around your eye will be cleansed and drops will be put into your eye to dilate the pupil. An anesthetic shot or numbing eye drops will be used to make sure you’ll be comfortable throughout the surgery. You should not feel pain or discomfort during your procedure.

Cataract surgery is one of the safest, most successful surgeries involving the eye. Most people notice a significant improvement in their vision and can resume everyday activities within 24 hours after cataract surgery. However, depending on which intraocular lens you have implanted, it can take between t2-6 months to completely adjust and for you to achieve your optimal vision. Because IOLs are made of durable material, it’s rare that they need to be replaced.

To learn more about cataract surgery in Rapid City, contact Great Plains Eye Specialiststo schedule a cataract surgery consultation. Call 605-718-5123 or visit Website to schedule your appointment today!