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Meds Used in Eye Surgery

Most eye surgery is done on an outpatient basis, under local anesthesia. Medications are given for comfort, to make it easier for the physician to visualize the eye, and to prevent infection after surgery.

  1. Topical Numbing Drugs

    • Eye drops are given to numb the surface of the eye; tetracaine, proparacaine or cocaine are commonly used.

    Local and Regional Anesthesia

    • Local anesthesia such as lidocaine is injected around the eye to give a deeper numbing effect. A retrobulbar block, consisting of several different anesthetics, is given through the lower lid into the muscles behind the eye to prevent any eye movement.

    Dilating Drops

    • Drops that dilate the eye are given so the ophthalmologist has a better view into the eye. Long-lasting drops, such as atropine, may be given to keep the eye dilated up to two weeks, to reduce pain and pressure.

    Sedating Drugs

    • Intravenous sedation is often given to keep patients comfortable but still able to respond to instructions. Versed, fentanyl or other short-acting narcotic or amnesiac drugs may be given.

    Antibiotics

    • Antibiotics are given after every invasive eye procedure, to prevent infection. Topical antibiotics are usually given for several days or longer, depending on the surgery.

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