“Are you awake during cataract surgery?”
I will have surgery for cataracts. Are you awake during cataract surgery?
5 Answers
This will depend on the surgeon and your preference. Topical, local and general anesthesia can be used. Speak with your surgeon to see what choices you have, and you can also communicate your preference.

Jason Randall Smith
Optometrist
Since every patient is different and surgeons have their own specific protocol to perform successful cataract surgery, you should discuss this specifically with your surgeon. But under most circumstances, cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure which lasts from 15 minutes to an hour. You will remain awake and receive local anesthesia in the form of eye drops or an injection most of the time. Your surgeon may also provide you a sedative or other medications to help you relax. Patients are usually awake, eliminating the risks associated with general anesthesia. This conscious state enables effective communication between the patient and the surgeon throughout the procedure. Please discuss all of your questions with your surgeon and your experience should prove positive and beneficial with your new eyesight. Good luck and best wishes.