Pre-operative Instructions for Phacorefractive Surgery

Before Surgery

• Your surgeon will provide you with a prescription for pre- and post-operative eye drops. You will need to pick up these drops at the pharmacy and start using them 2 days before your surgery.
  • Please note that some medications are not covered by provincial health insurance. Your doctor has chosen to prescribe these medications because of their superior therapeutic benefits.
• You should wait 5 minutes between applying each drop to optimize absorption.

It is very important to arrange for someone to drive you home or provide other safe transportation on the day of your surgery. You will not be able to drive, and your vision may be blurry. This also applies to your follow-up appointment 24-48 hours after surgery.

The Day Before or Morning of Surgery

We recommend washing your hair, as you will need to wait 2 days after surgery before washing it again.

On the Day of Surgery

• Apply your pre-operative eye drops on the morning of surgery;
• Bring a list of all your medications, both pills and drops, even if they are not for your eyes;
• Take your medications as usual;
• Dress comfortably, as you will not need to change into a hospital gown;
• Do not wear jewelry or makeup;
• Eat a normal breakfast or lunch, depending on your appointment time, but avoid overeating;
• You will be asked to sign a consent form before surgery. You may also receive a copy in advance;
• A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have before surgery.

After Surgery

A nurse will give you post-operative instructions after your surgery. It is best to have a companion with you for these instructions. You will have a clear shield over your eye, which you will need to keep on until you get home.

Usually, you will not have stitches. If you do, the nurse or your surgeon will let you know.

Post-Surgery Care

• You will have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon 24-48 hours after surgery;
• Bring your eye drops and appointment calendar to all follow-up visits;
• Your return to work will depend on the nature of your job and your work environment;
• It is normal to have blurry vision;
• You can read, watch television, and use a computer, but take breaks to reduce dry eye;
• You should wear the eye shield while sleeping for one week;
• Start using your post-operative eye drops 4 hours after surgery, once you are home;
• Wearing sunglasses is recommended for comfort when you go outdoors.
• For 1-2 weeks, do not:
  • Rub your eyes;
  • Lift heavy objects;
  • Play contact sports;
  • Exercise strenuously;
  • Make sudden movements;
  • Bend your head below your waist;
  • Wear makeup.
• For 1 month, do not:
  • Work with soil;
  • Submerge your head in a pool, lake, or ocean.