Most eye operations in adults, including cataract surgery, are done with the eye numbed while you stay awake and comfortable. You will not see the surgery in detail; most people see only bright lights and colours. Children and some adults have a general anaesthetic.
| Type | How it is given | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Topical | Numbing drops or gel, sometimes with a little anaesthetic inside the eye | Most cataract surgery, injections, laser |
| Sub-Tenon | Anaesthetic placed around the eye through a tiny opening with a blunt cannula | Longer or more complex surgery; safe with blood thinners |
| Peribulbar or retrobulbar block | An injection beside the eye that numbs it and stops it moving | Complex cataract, retina and corneal surgery |
| Sedation | Medicine through a vein to relax you, added to local anaesthesia | Anxious patients |
| General anaesthesia | Fully asleep | Children, squint surgery, some retina and orbit surgery |
For a general anaesthetic, children must stop food and milk for 6 hours, breast milk for 4 hours, and clear fluids for 1 hour before surgery (or as instructed by the anaesthetist). A parent can usually stay until the child is asleep and be there when they wake.
No. You see light, movement and colours, but not the instruments in detail.
Yes, if needed, for example if you cannot lie still. Most people do not need it.
It stings briefly. Many surgeons use numbing drops first.
Yes, almost all eye surgery is day surgery. Someone must take you home.
Related: Pre-Operative Guide: Cataract & LASIK Surgery, Cataract Surgery in Ahmedabad, Aspirin, Blood Thinners and Eye Surgery: Continue or Stop?.
This leaflet gives general information and does not replace advice from your own eye doctor. Reviewed by Dr. Dhaval Patel, MD (Ophthalmology, AIIMS New Delhi), November 2026.
Sadbhaav Eye & Dental Clinic, Motera, Ahmedabad. Dr. Dhaval Patel, MD (AIIMS New Delhi). Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 1 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm. For a serious eye injury outside clinic hours, go to the nearest eye hospital or emergency department.
Where healthy eyes and confident smiles come together.
Eye care by an AIIMS-trained ophthalmologist; dental care by an MDS endodontist — both dedicated specialists in their respective fields.
Dr. Dhaval Patel brings 15+ years of clinical experience since starting his ophthalmology residency at AIIMS, New Delhi in 2011.
Our staff communicates comfortably in both Gujarati and English, so every step of your visit — from reception to aftercare instructions — is easy to follow.
Dr Dhaval Patel has conducted many eye camps in Africa and visits yearly for the same.