Are You Put to Sleep for Lens Replacement Surgery?
Lens replacement surgery, also known as clear lens exchange (CLE) or refractive lens exchange (RLE), is a modern eye procedure designed to restore clear vision and reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses. Many people wonder if they’ll be “put to sleep” for this surgery. The short answer is no, you’ll be awake but completely comfortable.
Local anaesthesia, not general
Unlike major surgeries that require general anaesthesia, lens replacement is performed under local anaesthetic eye drops. These numbing drops prevent pain and discomfort during the procedure. You won’t feel the instruments or laser at work, but you will be aware of light and movement.
Patients remain awake because general anaesthesia isn’t necessary for such a gentle and quick procedure. This also allows for faster recovery and minimal risk.
What you’ll feel during surgery
During the operation, your surgeon will gently remove your natural lens and replace it with a small, clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). This lens restores your focusing ability and can correct vision problems like presbyopia, myopia, or hyperopia.
Most patients describe the experience as painless and surprisingly quick, typically around 10 to 15 minutes per eye. You may feel a bit of pressure or see lights and colours, but no pain.
Sedation for relaxation
If you feel anxious, a mild sedative can be given to help you relax. This is sometimes called “conscious sedation”. You remain awake and able to respond, but calm and at ease throughout the procedure.
What happens after the procedure
You’ll rest briefly after surgery and return home the same day. Because no general anaesthetic is used, recovery is faster and smoother. Most people can see well within 24–48 hours, with vision continuing to sharpen over the following weeks.
Why being awake is beneficial
Being awake during surgery allows your surgeon to communicate with you if needed and ensures that your eyes remain positioned correctly throughout the procedure. It’s also safer for your overall health, especially for older patients or those with underlying conditions.
Reassurance for nervous patients
It’s perfectly natural to feel nervous about eye surgery. However, modern lens replacement procedures are designed for comfort, safety, and precision. The combination of numbing drops, gentle technique, and skilled surgical care ensures a positive experience.
Conclusion
You are not “put to sleep” for lens replacement surgery and that’s a good thing. The procedure is quick, painless, and highly effective at restoring clear vision.
If you want to know whether you’re suitable for lens replacement, take our quick suitability self-test. today.
POUVEZ-VOUS BÉNÉFICIER D’UNE CORRECTION DE LA VUE AU LASER?
It isn’t suitable for everyone.
The first step is to book an assessment so you can find out whether you can benefit.
NOS PROCÉDURES LES PLUS POPULAIRES
Ce que disent nos patients…
“Very good experience; everything went well for me. Warm welcome, clear explanations, and impeccable work—there's nothing to complain about except to encourage you to go there if you want to have an operation!!”
iMiGo11“”Très bon centre.
À chacune de mes visites, le personnel était très rassurant, accueillant, professionnel et à l’écoute. Je suis ravi des résultats 3 mois après l’opération et ne peut que les recommander.””
KIRAN SINGH“”Excellente prise en charge tout au long des RDV, de la 1ère consultation jusqu’à l’opération et aux contrôles post-opératoires. Personnel très accueillants et donnant des explications claires. Un grand merci”.”
Raphael StrgarNous avons remplacé les images des patients réels qui ont fourni ces témoignages afin de protéger leur vie privée.
