In clinic, we will often recommend that a patient scheduled for cataract surgery begin non-preserved rewetting drops before BOTH eye measurement and surgery.  Why is this important to get the best outcome for cataract surgery?  

Pre-Measurement and Pre-Surgery have been separated as these generally occur on different dates and could be separated by months.  If you have time, start any drop regime at least one month prior to your appointments.  Always inform your surgeon as to what drops you are on when attending your appointments.

Pre-Eye Measurement Drops 

It is critical that the eye measurements that are taken BEFORE you have cataract surgery are as accurate as possible.   Especially with advanced cataract procedures such as multifocal and astigmatism IOL's (Intra-ocular lenses), these measurements will define both [1] what lens the surgeon puts in your eye [2] what axis/angle/position this lens is placed.

If your cornea is is poor condition with irritation or even a little swelling (keratitis), these measurements can be inaccurate and this can ultimately lead to reduced post surgery satisfaction.

Pre-Cataract Surgery Drops

You may have some prescription pre-cataract surgery eye drops to control inflammation and/or infection but we also recommend that you use pre-cataract surgery lubrication eye drops to maximize outcome.

Good quality, non-preservative drops can:

1. Reduce post surgery dry eye: Cataract surgery is notorious for exacerbating dry eye symptoms. Pre-surgery lubrication drops help moisturize the eyes, reducing dryness before surgery and helping maintain a healthy tear film during the recovery process.  The proper drops can ensure that your eyes are in the best possible condition leading up to the surgery.

2. Optimized Surgical Conditions: A well-hydrated eye allows the surgeon to operate under optimal conditions. Dryness could potentially interfere with the precision of the procedure.

3. Improved Healing: Proper eye hydration can promote better healing post-surgery by keeping the ocular surface healthy, reducing inflammation, and reducing complication risk.

What drops should I use pre-cataract surgery?

Our choice for pre-surgery drops are always non-preserved.  We use several brands including HYLO, Hyabak and I-Drop PUR.  Leading up to measurements, use drops 2-4 drops per day and make sure that you stop a couple hours pre-measurement appointment.

For pre-cataract surgery, the drop selection is the same but use a fresh bottle.  We advise 2-4 drops per day and make sure that you separate from any prescription eye drops given by at least 10 minutes.

You might as well do BOTH eyes to feel your best!  This advice is also relevant for those having LASIK eye surgery.

Stay tuned as there will be a blog post about [1] post cataract surgery drop use and [2] pre-surgery eye lid issues soon.  

There is a bit more information within a post on our sister website CataractClub.com.

Dr Morris

RELATED TOPICS: Basic Dry Eye Guide, How can preservative-free drops last longer?