Anaesthesia
Anaesthesia During your Eye Surgery
Prior to the operation, your Anaesthetist will ask you about any previous anaesthetic history and check your heart and blood pressure. A painless local anaesthetic may be applied to your eye, and drops will be inserted to dilate the pupil. The skin around your eye will be cleaned.
During the operation, you are likely to feel drowsy due to the sedation. You will hear what is going on around you and the surgeon’s hands on your face. In fact, your surgeon will usually explain to you what is going on, whilst the procedure is being performed.
Your face and head will be protected by sterile material. Your Anaesthetist will be on hand at all times to monitor your progress. If you feel any discomfort, you should let the Anaesthetists or surgeon know. For most people, all they feel is a slight pressure.
Once the operation is complete, you will need to rest for a little while.
Most patients are able to leave within an hour. However, please remember that you will not be able to drive yourself. It is recommended that a friend, colleague or family member stay with you, and transport you home. Avoid public transport, i.e. buses, trains, etc.
Anaesthesia
This can be an anxious time so we would like to reassure patients that they are in good hands. Anaesthetists in Australia are specialized Doctors who are highly trained in administering anaesthesia, as well as pain control, resuscitation and managing any medical emergency. Your anaesthetist will see you before your procedure, allowing you the opportunity to discuss any concerns.
It is important that you disclose everything that you think is relevant, and to follow your medical and fasting instructions.
Your anaesthetist will monitor you during the procedure and after surgery is finished to ensure a smooth and trouble-free recovery. Developments in new surgical techniques combined with modern anaesthesia results in a more rapid recovery.
Important Message
Although the drugs administered are given in the smallest effective doses, they may take a while to be eliminated from your body due to different rates of metabolism. It is therefore imperative that you do not drive, work machinery or sign important documents for 24 hours following the procedure.
Anaesthesia
The following anaesthesia options may be used in day surgery depending your procedure:
Topical Anaesthesia
Eye drops that numb the surface of the eye may be used. Sedative drugs may or may not be administered according to need. You will be awake and recovery is quick.
Local Anaesthesia
A local anaesthesia is administered prior to surgery to cause numbness. You will be awake, but comfortable and not feel pain.
Regional Anaesthesia
A nerve block numbs part of your body where the surgeon operates and this avoids the use of general anaesthetic. Like the above methods, you will be awake but comfortable and not feel any pain.
Intravenous Sedation
To make things more pleasant during your stay, your anaesthetist may intravenously administer a drug to make you relaxed and drowsy.
The advantage of using any of the above methods of anaesthesia is that as soon as the operation is finished the patient is usually ready for something to eat and drink and discharge can generally takes place within the hour.