Your journey
What to expect before cataract surgery
Reviewed by Rajesh Khanna, MD
Step-by-step preparation for cataract and PIE lens surgery.
About One Week Before Surgery: Contact Lenses and Eye Measurements
Your eye measurements must be as accurate as possible so that your new lens implant is perfectly matched to your eye. Contact lenses can temporarily change the shape of the cornea, so they need to be stopped in advance.
Contact lens guidelines
- Stop soft contact lenses at least 3–7 days before surgery.
- Stop rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses 3–4 weeks before surgery.
- Tell us if you accidentally wear lenses after this cutoff so we can advise you.
Why this matters
- Allows your cornea to return to its natural shape.
- Improves accuracy of lens implant calculations.
- Helps you achieve the sharpest possible post-surgery vision.
Three Days Before: Start Your Antibiotic Eye Drops
To lower the risk of infection, you will start antibiotic (or combination) eye drops a few days before your procedure.
Antibiotic eye drop checklist
If you miss a dose, put it in as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next one. Do not double up without checking with your doctor.
- Begin the prescribed antibiotic or combo drop 3 days before surgery.
- Use 1 drop, 4 times a day in the eye being operated.
- Continue for 7 days after surgery unless your surgeon changes the plan.
- Do not let the bottle tip touch your eye or lashes.
The Night Before Cataract Surgery
Eating and drinking (fasting instructions)
For your safety under anesthesia, your stomach must be empty:
- Do not eat or drink after midnight, or within 8 hours of your scheduled surgery time.
- If you take regular medications, you may take them with as little water as possible, unless told otherwise.
Makeup, perfume, and skincare
- Remove all facial and eye makeup at least 12 hours before surgery.
- Make sure there is no mascara or eyeliner residue left along the lashes.
- Do not wear perfume, cologne, or scented lotions on the day of surgery.
- Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol on the day of your procedure.
Night-before checklist
The Day of Cataract Surgery
Arriving at the surgery center
On the day of surgery, arrive at the time you were given so that the staff can check you in, review your medications, and prepare your eye. Bring your ID, insurance card (if applicable), and your eye drops.
What to wear and bring
- Comfortable two-piece outfit (top and pants).
- Flat, closed-toe shoes.
- Your prescribed eye drops.
- Glasses or sunglasses to wear home (you may also receive protective eyewear).
- A list of your medications and allergies.
Transportation and support
- Have a trusted adult drive you to and from the center.
- Ideally, the same person can bring you back for your 1-day follow-up exam.
- Plan to rest for the remainder of the day after surgery.
Important phone numbers
If you have questions before your procedure, you can reach us at:
You will receive written after-care instructions and the time of your 1-day post-operative visit before you leave the center, so there is no need to memorize every detail.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take my regular medications before surgery?
In most cases yes, but certain blood thinners or diabetes medications may need to be adjusted. Take regular medications with a small sip of water, unless your surgeon or anesthesiologist has given different instructions. Always check in advance if you are unsure.
What if I accidentally eat or drink the morning of surgery?
Call the surgery center immediately. For your safety, your procedure time may need to be delayed or rescheduled if you have not followed fasting guidelines strictly.
Should I stop aspirin or blood thinners?
Never stop a prescription medication without speaking with both your eye surgeon and the prescribing doctor (such as your cardiologist or primary care physician). You will be given individualized guidance based on your health history.
Can I wear deodorant or body lotion?
Unscented deodorant and plain moisturizer are usually fine. Avoid any strongly scented products, colognes, or perfumes on the day of your procedure.
General information, not medical advice. Your surgeon’s written instructions take priority over this page. Questions? Call (310) 482-1240.