Preparing for cataract surgery involves reviewing medications and choosing your replacement lens, arranging transportation, and following preoperative instructions. A little preparation can help make your experience smoother.
At Wellish Abrams Vision Institute in Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada, our team is here to help you prepare for surgery. If you are a current patient, please give us a call (702) 733-2020 so we can address any questions or concerns. If you are just exploring your options or wondering whether cataract surgery is right for you, we encourage you to schedule a cataract evaluation to learn more about your eye health, treatment options, and next steps toward clearer vision.
Cataract Surgery Preparation Checklist
You can use this general checklist to help prepare for your procedure. However, always follow the specific instructions provided by your cataract surgeon.
| When | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1–2 weeks before | Complete your cataract evaluation, eye measurements, and lens selection |
| Before surgery | Review medications, supplements, and medical conditions |
| Several days before | Obtain prescribed eye drops and arrange transportation |
| Night before | Follow eating, drinking, and medication instructions |
| Surgery day | Wear comfortable clothing, avoid eye makeup, and arrive on time |
| After surgery | Use prescribed drops, protect your eye, and attend follow-up appointments |
1. Complete Your Cataract Evaluation and Choose Your Lens
Before surgery, your ophthalmologist will perform a comprehensive eye examination to evaluate your cataracts and measure your eyes. These measurements help determine the appropriate power of the artificial intraocular lens (IOL) that will replace your cloudy natural lens.
Learn what to expect at your cataract evaluation
2. Review Your Medications and Eye Drops
Before cataract surgery, provide your care team with a complete list of medications, supplements, and eye drops you currently use.
Certain medications, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, and medications for prostate conditions, may require special consideration when planning surgery.
Your surgeon may also prescribe eye drops to use before or after your procedure to help manage inflammation or reduce the risk of infection.
Never stop taking prescribed medications unless your surgeon or prescribing healthcare professional instructs you to do so.
If you wear contact lenses, you may need to stop wearing them temporarily before your eye measurements. Your care team will explain how long it will take, depending on the type of lenses you wear.
3. Arrange Transportation and Prepare for Recovery
Cataract surgery is generally an outpatient procedure, meaning you can return home the same day. However, you will need someone to drive you home because your vision may be blurry and medications may affect your ability to drive safely. If you need help with transportation, let your cataract care team know, and we can help you with arrangements.
Before surgery, consider the following:
- Arrange for a trusted adult to drive you home.
- Pick up prescribed medications and eye drops.
- Prepare a comfortable space to rest.
- Have sunglasses and any recommended protective eye shield available.
- Confirm your postoperative appointment.
4. What to Do the Night Before Cataract Surgery
The night before surgery, review all instructions provided by your cataract surgeon or surgical center.
Your care team will explain whether you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure. These instructions depend on your anesthesia plan and medical history.
Do not assume you must fast starting at midnight. Follow your surgical team’s specific directions about food, drinks, and medications.
You should also confirm your arrival time, arrange transportation, follow any recommended eyelid cleaning instructions, and get a good night’s rest.
If you have questions about taking a medication or using an eye drop, contact your surgical team before surgery.
5. What to Do on the Day of Cataract Surgery
On the morning of your procedure, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and follow your surgeon’s instructions.
You may be asked to avoid:
- Eye makeup, mascara, and eyeliner
- Facial creams or lotions around your eyes
- Perfume or strongly scented products
- Contact lenses in the eye being treated
- Jewelry or accessories that interfere with surgical preparation
6. Prepare for Cataract Surgery Recovery
Your vision may be blurry immediately after cataract surgery, and you may experience mild irritation or sensitivity to light. Many patients notice improvements within the first few days, although complete healing takes longer.
To protect your eye during recovery, your surgeon may recommend that you:
- Use prescribed eye drops as directed.
- Avoid rubbing or pressing on your eye.
- Wear a protective eye shield when instructed.
- Temporarily avoid swimming, strenuous exercise, or heavy lifting.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.
Do not resume driving until your eye doctor confirms it is safe.
Schedule Your Cataract Evaluation in Las Vegas or Henderson
Knowing how to prepare for cataract surgery can help you feel more confident about your procedure. From your initial evaluation and lens selection to surgery-day preparation and recovery, your care team will guide you through each step.
At Wellish Abrams Vision Institute, our cataract surgeons provide individualized treatment planning for patients throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, and surrounding Southern Nevada communities.
If cataracts are affecting your vision, schedule a cataract evaluation to explore your treatment options and take the next step toward clearer vision.