What to Expect Before Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful eye procedures performed today. A little preparation goes a long way in making your experience smooth and stress-free. On this page, you will find step-by-step instructions on contact lens use, eye drops, fasting, personal care, and transportation so you can arrive on surgery day feeling ready and confident.
Key facts about your surgery day
- Your surgery is performed at Specialty Surgery Center, 9001 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 100 (Ground Floor), Beverly Hills, CA 90211
- Parking is available in the garage under the building (paid) or on nearby side streets (free and metered)
- You will receive a kit with after-care instructions and your 1-day post-op appointment immediately after 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. Our office uses the ZEISS IOL Master, a highly precise, non-contact scanning device that measures your eye with exceptional accuracy to ensure the best possible results for your surgery. Contact lenses can temporarily change the shape of the cornea, so they need to be stopped in advance.
Safety 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.
- Please inform us if you are taking any GLP-1 or semaglutide(s).
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
- 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.
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.
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/vaping and drinking alcohol on the day of your procedure.
Night-before checklist
- Confirm your arrival time and location.
- Lay out comfortable, loose-fitting clothes for the morning.
- Bring your eyedrops along with you to the surgery center.
- Arrange your ride to and from Specialty Surgery Center.
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 (or same 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:
- Specialty Surgery Center: (310) 275-2339
- Khanna Vision Institute: (805) 230-2126
- Counselor: (818) 857-1735
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 About Preparing for Cataract Surgery
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.