You will be given a topical anesthesia and intravenous (IV) anesthesia during your cataract surgery.
Topical Anesthesia: You will be given a series of eye drops to both numb the surface of the eye and dilate the pupil. Only the surface of the eye needs to be anesthetized, as that is where the procedure will take place. You will still be able to feel light touch and slight pressure but not pain. Think of going to the dentist office and receiving Novocain, you can feel the dentist working but it does not hurt.
Intravenous (IV) Anesthesia: Although not necessary, Intravenous sedation is often preferred by patients. This is given in order to help the patient relax during the procedure.
The medications given (if you are not allergic) are:
- Versed: This is an anti-anxiety medication with similar properties to valium. Versed works very quickly and wears off quickly.
- Fentanyl: This is a narcotic that works will with versed to optimize relaxation and comfort.
All medications are given in incremental doses to achieve a level of sedation and comfort that work for both the patient and the surgeon. You must still be able to hold still and focus on the microscope light during the procedure, you will not be “put asleep.”
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