How Many Days to Stop Wearing Contacts Before Cataract Surgery?

Before cataract surgery, it is necessary to stop wearing contact lenses?

Hello, doctor: I am currently wearing soft daily disposable contact lenses.
I am scheduled to undergo cataract surgery soon.
How many days before the surgery should I stop wearing my contact lenses?

len, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/21

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

To avoid affecting corneal health, it is best to stop wearing them for more than two weeks.

Reply Date: 2016/09/21

More Info

When preparing for cataract surgery, it is essential to follow specific guidelines regarding the use of contact lenses, particularly soft daily disposable lenses. Generally, it is recommended to stop wearing soft contact lenses at least one week (7 days) before the surgery. This timeframe allows your cornea to return to its natural shape and ensures that the eye is in the best condition for the surgeon to perform the procedure.
The reason for this recommendation is that contact lenses can alter the shape of the cornea, which may affect the measurements taken for the intraocular lens (IOL) that will be implanted during the surgery. Accurate measurements are crucial for determining the correct power of the IOL, which directly influences the visual outcome after surgery. If the cornea is not in its natural shape, it could lead to inaccurate measurements, potentially resulting in suboptimal vision correction post-surgery.

If you are using rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses, the recommendation is typically to stop wearing them for a longer period, often around two to three weeks before the surgery. This is because RGP lenses can have a more significant impact on the corneal shape compared to soft lenses.

In addition to stopping contact lens wear, it is also advisable to have a pre-operative consultation with your ophthalmologist. During this visit, your doctor will assess your eye health, discuss the surgical procedure, and answer any questions you may have. They will also confirm the exact timeline for stopping contact lens use based on your specific situation.

After the surgery, you will likely be advised to avoid wearing contact lenses for a period of time as well, typically for at least a few weeks, to allow your eyes to heal properly. During this recovery period, you may be prescribed eye drops to help with healing and to prevent infection.

In summary, for soft daily disposable contact lenses, you should stop wearing them at least one week before your cataract surgery. For RGP lenses, aim for a two to three-week cessation. Always consult with your ophthalmologist for personalized advice and to ensure the best possible outcome from your cataract surgery.

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