Yes, You Can Be Asleep for Your Cataract Surgery

One of the most common questions I get from patients is:

“Do I have to be awake during cataract or lens replacement surgery?”

My answer is simple: No way!  Would you pay for an Uber and then walk to your destination? Of course not.  Why would you have an anaesthetist for a procedure and be awake?

At both the Queensland Eye Institute and Focus Vision Clinic, I regularly work with skilled anaesthetists who can safely and comfortably put you to sleep for your cataract surgery. It is not a general anaesthetic but it is VERY heavy sedation.  You’ll come in, meet your anaesthetist, drift off to sleep, and wake up with the procedure already done. It’s a smooth, stress-free experience.  You won’t even remember seeing me!

Some people are surprised to learn that being asleep is even an option. But here’s the truth: there’s no medical requirement for you to be awake during the surgery.

Being asleep for cataract surgery is not only safe — it’s often more pleasant for everyone involved. There’s no awareness of bright lights, no concern about staying still, and no memory of the surgery itself.  It also means you will lie nice and still for me to operate on your eye.

With a qualified anaesthetist managing your sedation, I can focus entirely on giving you the best possible surgical outcome, while you simply sleep through it all.

What to Expect

• You’ll meet your anaesthetist before surgery

• An IV will gently ease you to sleep

• The surgery typically takes under 20 minutes

• You’ll wake up in recovery with everything done

There is no need to stress or fear —  you are in excellent hands the entire time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re nervous about being awake or simply want a smoother experience, then I look forward to meeting you and to reassure you that you can be soundly asleep for your cataract surgier, lens replacement surgery or refractive lens exchange. 

Book your consultation today — and take the stress out of your surgery.