Pre-Operative Guide

A detailed, day-by-day pre-operative guide for cataract surgery and LASIK patients at Sadbhaav — exactly what to do, and when, so surgery day goes smoothly.

Cataract Surgery — Pre-Operative Instructions

In the days before surgery

• If Dr. Patel has prescribed antibiotic and/or lubricating eye drops to start before surgery, use them exactly as advised — this is a genuine part of infection prevention, not optional
• Confirm your transportation for surgery day — you will not be able to drive yourself home
• Inform us of all medications and supplements you take, especially blood thinners like aspirin
• Arrange for someone to accompany you, particularly for your first cataract eye

The night before or morning of surgery

• Wash your hair and shower the night before or morning of surgery — you'll need to keep your eyes dry and avoid direct water contact for a few days afterward, so it's genuinely easier to do this beforehand
• Men should shave as part of your normal morning routine
• Wash your face thoroughly with just soap and water — do not apply makeup, moisturiser, lotion, or perfume
• Wear clean, comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
• Follow any fasting instructions given to you specifically — this can vary depending on whether sedation is planned, so confirm directly with us rather than assuming a fixed rule

Arriving at the clinic

• Reach well before your scheduled time — dilating drops need time to take full effect before surgery can begin, so arriving early is genuinely necessary, not just courteous
• Dilating drops will be administered at the clinic as advised, to widen the pupil for the procedure
• Bring your glasses, a valid photo ID, and a list of your current medications
• Bring any eye drops you've already been prescribed

What to expect during your visit

After check-in, your eye will be prepared and numbed with local anaesthetic drops. The surgery itself typically takes only a matter of minutes. You'll then rest briefly for monitoring before discharge — most patients are discharged around an hour after surgery, once we've confirmed you're comfortable and ready to go home.

Discharge and going home

Your vision will be blurry immediately afterward, so you will need someone to drive you home — this isn't optional. We'll give you clear instructions on your eye drop schedule and your follow-up visit before you leave.

LASIK — Pre-Operative Instructions

In the days before surgery

• Stop wearing contact lenses as advised — typically at least 5 days for soft lenses, or at least 2 weeks for rigid or toric lenses, though confirm your specific timeline with us
• If antibiotic or lubricating drops have been prescribed beforehand, use them exactly as advised
• Arrange transportation for surgery day, since driving afterward isn't recommended
• Get adequate rest in the days leading up to surgery

The night before or morning of surgery

• Wash your hair and shower — avoid heavy hair products or oils that day
• Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours beforehand
• Do not wear makeup, perfume, or hairspray on the day of surgery — these can interfere with the laser equipment
• Wear comfortable clothing you can lie back in easily

Arriving at the clinic

• Reach well before your scheduled time to allow for final checks and numbing drops
• Bring your glasses and a valid photo ID
• Bring someone to drive you home afterward

What to expect during your visit

Your eye will be numbed with anaesthetic drops before the procedure. The laser treatment itself typically takes well under a minute per eye. After a short rest and final check, most patients are discharged the same day, generally within an hour of the procedure.

Discharge and going home

Vision is often noticeably clearer within a day, though mild dryness or light sensitivity is normal at first. Someone should drive you home, and you'll receive your eye drop schedule and follow-up appointment details before leaving.

Questions before your surgery date?

See our Cataract Surgery FAQ or LASIK Treatment FAQ for more, or our general preparation checklist for a quicker overview.