eye day of procedure tips

Overview

A clear, step-by-step guide to help you know what happens on the day of your eye procedure. It covers how to prepare, what to bring, what the surgical team will do, and how to look after your eye when you get home.

Yes. Eye procedures are very common. For example, cataract surgery is one of the most frequently performed operations in the world.

Eye procedures are done in people of all ages, but they are most common in adults over 60, due to natural ageing of the eye. Some procedures, such as laser treatments for the retina, can be needed at any age.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling nervous or anxious before the procedure — this is completely normal.
• Temporary blurred vision after the pupil is dilated with eye drops.
• A scratchy or gritty feeling in your eye for the first few hours after the procedure.

Symptoms in children

• Children may be restless or frightened, especially in an unfamiliar clinic.
• They may cry or try to rub their eye — a protective shield can help.
• They may need a parent or carer to stay with them until they settle.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may feel confused or woozy after receiving sedative medicine.
• They might have trouble hearing or understanding instructions, so it helps to bring a companion to the appointment.
• They can feel unsteady on their feet — using a walking aid and moving slowly is important.

Causes

Main causes

• Aging of the eye, leading to a cloudy lens (cataract).
• Raised pressure inside the eye (glaucoma), which can damage the optic nerve.
• Retinal problems, such as a tear, hole, or detachment.
• Refractive errors like short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism.

Risk factors

• Being over 60 years old.
• Having diabetes, high blood pressure, or other medical conditions that affect the eyes.
• A family history of eye disease.
• Having had a previous eye injury or operation.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have symptoms of an emergency on the day (severe pain, loss of vision, nausea with a red eye), tell the medical team immediately.
• If you get a fever, persistent cough, or feel generally unwell in the days before your procedure, contact the day surgery unit to ask whether you should still come.
• If you accidentally rub your eye or get an injury after your procedure, call the clinic right away.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you notice a new or unusual vision change in the weeks before your planned procedure, tell your eye doctor.
• If you are unsure about any preparation instructions, phone the clinic before the day and ask.

Diagnosis

Your eye doctor will examine your eyes and do several measurements before the day of your procedure. This is called a pre-assessment and usually happens a few days or weeks before your surgery.

Tests that may be done

• Visual acuity test, to check how clearly you see at a distance.
• Slit-lamp microscope, to look at the front and inside of your eye.
• Ultrasound or other scans, to measure the length and shape of your eyeball.

What to expect at your appointment

On the day itself, you will meet the surgeon, nurse, and anaesthetic team. They will check your blood pressure and pulse, confirm your identity and the eye being treated, and answer any last-minute questions. You may be asked to put on a hospital gown.

Treatment

During the procedure, your eye will be numbed with anaesthetic drops, and you may be given a mild sedative to help you relax. The surgeon will make very small cuts, or use a laser, to treat the affected part of your eye. The whole procedure is usually over within 30 to 45 minutes.

Self-care at home

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid head-to-toe outfits — a button-up top is easier.
• Remove contact lenses on the morning of the procedure, as your eye doctor directs.
• Do not wear eye make-up, face creams, or perfume on the day.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours.
• Bring a list of your medicines and the medicines themselves in their original packaging.

Medical treatments

After your procedure, you will probably be given eye drops to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Your doctor will explain how often to use them and for how long. You may also be advised to wear an eye shield at night. Never share your drops with anyone else.

When is surgery considered?

Most eye procedures are performed as day surgery, meaning you go home the same day. In a few cases, such as if you have a complex condition or need surgery on both eyes, you may be asked to stay overnight. Your surgeon will tell you beforehand.

Living with this condition

After your procedure, you need to protect your eye. You can usually read, watch television, and use a computer after the first day, but your vision may be blurry and watery for a few days. Avoid rubbing the eye, lifting heavy objects, or bending over for the first week.

Lifestyle tips

• Wear the eye shield over your eye at night for at least a week, or as directed.
• Use your eye drops before and after the procedure exactly as your doctor tells you.
• Keep water, soap, and shampoo out of your eye when you shower or wash your hair.
• Wear sunglasses when you go outside, because your eye will be more sensitive to light.

Diet and exercise

You can eat a normal diet once you are fully alert and have no nausea. Gentle walking is fine, but avoid strenuous exercise, swimming, and heavy lifting for at least a week. Drink plenty of water and choose easily digestible meals if you were given sedation.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Feeling anxious, worried, or low after an eye operation is understandable. Your vision may take time to settle, and that can be frustrating. Talk to someone you trust about how you feel, and remember that your care team is there to support you.

Prevention

Most eye problems that need surgery are not preventable, but you can reduce your risk of complications by following your doctor's instructions before and after the procedure. Keep your general health in good order, control long-term conditions like diabetes, and avoid smoking.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a serious eye condition like a retinal detachment is left untreated, it can lead to permanent loss of vision.
• Untreated glaucoma can gradually damage the optic nerve and narrow your field of vision.
• Post-operative infections are rare but can be serious if they are not treated promptly.

Long-term outlook

The overwhelming majority of eye procedures are successful and result in better vision and a better quality of life. Most people notice an improvement within a few days, and full healing usually takes several weeks. With regular check-ups and careful home care, your outlook is excellent.

Find support

International organisations

• Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) ↗
• International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) ↗

Local organisations

• NHS ↗ · United Kingdom

Helplines

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