![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/1-13-2-1024x559.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOne of the most common concerns people have is whether you need to actively keep your eyes open during RLE surgery. In reality, you do not have to do anything at all. The surgical team takes full control of this aspect for you. You can simply relax and follow any basic instructions given during the procedure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A small instrument called an eyelid speculum is gently placed to keep your eyelids open throughout the surgery. This means you physically cannot blink, even if you feel the natural urge to do so. It may sound unusual, but it is completely safe and designed to keep your eye stable. This also removes any pressure on you to \u201cstay still\u201d or manage your blinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because of this setup, the process is entirely passive from your side. You are not expected to consciously control your eye movements or keep your eye open. Even if your body reacts automatically, the device ensures everything remains in position. This helps your surgeon work with precision while keeping you comfortable and reassured.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What Happens If You Try to Blink?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you try to blink during RLE surgery, nothing harmful happens at all. Your eyelids are gently held open by a small device, so the blink cannot actually take place. You might feel a slight urge or sensation, but it does not affect what your surgeon is doing. The procedure continues safely without interruption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is one of the most reassuring parts of the surgery for many people. Your natural reflexes, like blinking, are fully expected and planned for in advance. The entire setup is designed with these automatic reactions in mind. You are not required to suppress or control them yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your surgeon knows that blinking is a completely normal response, especially when your eye is being worked on. The equipment used during the procedure ensures that this reflex does not create any risk. This allows everything to move forward smoothly and with precision. You can stay relaxed, knowing that your body\u2019s natural reactions are already taken care of.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can You Actually Open or Move Your Eye Voluntarily?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
While your eyelids are gently held open during RLE surgery, your eye itself can still make small, natural movements. This is completely normal and something your surgeon fully expects. You are not responsible for keeping your eye perfectly still throughout the procedure. The process is designed so that you do not need to consciously control every movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the surgery, you will usually be asked to look at a specific light. This helps guide your eye into a stable position in a natural and comfortable way. Even if your focus shifts slightly, it is not a problem. Modern surgical equipment is designed to adjust for these small movements automatically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Surgeons are highly trained to work with these natural variations in eye movement. Advanced techniques allow them to maintain precision, even if your eye is not completely motionless. This is a routine part of how the procedure is performed. You can feel reassured knowing that everything is managed safely and effectively without needing effort from your side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How Surgeons Maintain Control During the Procedure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
RLE surgery is carried out under high magnification using specialised microscopes, which allows your surgeon to see the finest details of your eye with exceptional clarity. This level of visibility helps ensure that every step is precise and carefully controlled. Nothing is rushed, and each movement is deliberate. This controlled approach plays a key role in keeping the procedure safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alongside this, the instruments used during surgery are specifically designed for stability and accuracy. Your eye is gently supported throughout the process, which helps minimise the effect of any small, natural movements. Even if your eye shifts slightly, it does not disrupt the procedure. The entire setup is built to maintain control at all times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If needed, your surgeon can pause the procedure immediately. There is no pressure to continue if your eye needs a moment to settle. This flexibility adds an extra layer of safety and reassurance. At every stage, your comfort and safety remain the top priority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What If You Suddenly Move Your Eye?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s completely natural to worry about what might happen if your eye moves during refractive lens exchange (RLE) surgery. The reality is that small movements are expected, and your surgeon is fully prepared for them. You\u2019re not required to keep your eye perfectly still every second. The procedure is designed to be controlled, calm, and adaptable to your natural responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Small eye movements are normal and safely managed<\/strong>: <\/strong>During surgery, tiny shifts in your eye position can happen without you even realising it. Your surgeon is trained to work with these movements and will gently adjust their technique as needed. Advanced equipment also helps maintain precision throughout the procedure. These minor movements do not affect the safety or outcome of your surgery.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The procedure can be paused if needed<\/strong>: <\/strong>If your eye makes a slightly larger or sudden movement, there\u2019s no need to worry. The surgeon can simply pause for a moment and wait for your eye to settle. Nothing is rushed, and every step is performed with care and control. This ensures that your safety always comes first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You\u2019ll receive clear guidance throughout<\/strong>: <\/strong>During the procedure, you\u2019ll be given simple instructions, such as where to look or when to stay still. These directions are easy to follow and help keep your eye in the right position. The surgical team will also reassure you continuously, so you feel supported. This guidance makes it much easier to stay relaxed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Relaxation helps reduce sudden movements<\/strong>:<\/strong> The more comfortable and calm you feel, the less likely you are to make sudden movements. You may be given medication to help you relax, and the overall environment is kept quiet and reassuring. Knowing what to expect also helps you stay at ease. A relaxed patient makes the whole process smoother.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
In the end, occasional eye movement is something your surgeon expects and plans for. You\u2019re not expected to be perfectly still, and you won\u2019t cause harm by moving slightly. With expert care, clear communication, and a controlled approach, the procedure remains safe and precise. This should give you confidence as you prepare for surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Role of Anaesthetic Eye Drops<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/images-1024x559.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAnaesthetic eye drops play an important role in making your RLE surgery as comfortable as possible. They gently numb the surface of your eye so you do not feel pain during the procedure. This also helps reduce natural reflexes such as blinking or squeezing your eyelids. As a result, you can stay calm without needing to control these reactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because your eye is numbed, any sensations you notice are usually very mild. You might feel slight pressure or a sense of movement, but it should not be uncomfortable. Most people are surprised by how manageable the experience feels. This helps you remain relaxed throughout the surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The drops also contribute to keeping your eye stable during the procedure. When your eye is relaxed, it is less likely to make sudden or strong movements. This makes it easier for your surgeon to work with precision. Overall, this added stability supports a safe and smooth surgical experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why You Won\u2019t Feel the Need to Close Your Eye<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
One of the most common worries I hear is the fear of a strong, uncontrollable urge to shut the eye during surgery. In reality, that sensation is far milder than most people expect. The anaesthetic eye drops used at the beginning of the procedure significantly reduce sensitivity, which means the usual triggers for blinking are largely diminished.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your eye is also continuously kept moist throughout the surgery. Dryness is one of the main reasons we instinctively blink, so by maintaining proper lubrication, that natural reflex is greatly reduced. You are not left in a situation where your eye feels irritated or uncomfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because of this combination numbing and constant hydration most patients are genuinely surprised by how easy the experience feels. The urge to blink or close the eye becomes minimal, allowing the procedure to take place in a calm and controlled environment without added stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What You Will See During Surgery<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re feeling curious or slightly nervous about what you might see during RLE surgery, you\u2019re not alone. It\u2019s a very common concern, and understanding the experience beforehand can really help put your mind at ease. The key thing to know is that your vision won\u2019t be clear or detailed during the procedure. What you see is usually quite abstract and not something that feels threatening or uncomfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Your vision will appear blurred and unfocused: <\/strong>During surgery, your eye is numbed, and your natural focusing ability is temporarily altered. Because of this, you won\u2019t see sharp or recognisable images. Instead, everything will look soft, hazy, or out of focus. This actually works in your favour, as it prevents you from seeing anything that might make you feel uneasy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You may notice bright lights and shifting colours: <\/strong>The surgical microscope produces a strong, bright light that helps your surgeon see clearly. From your perspective, this can appear as a glowing light or even changing colours. Some patients describe it as similar to looking through a kaleidoscope. These visual effects are completely normal and nothing to be concerned about.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Movement and shadow-like shapes can appear: <\/strong>As the surgeon works, you might notice gentle movement or vague shadowy patterns. These are simply reflections of the instruments and activity inside your eye. They don\u2019t represent anything sharp or detailed. Most patients find these sensations interesting rather than alarming.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You won\u2019t see instruments coming towards your eye: <\/strong>One of the biggest worries people have is seeing surgical tools up close. In reality, this doesn\u2019t happen. Because your vision is blurred and the focus is altered, you won\u2019t see clear shapes or objects approaching you. The experience remains abstract, which helps reduce anxiety throughout the procedure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Overall, what you see during surgery is quite different from normal vision. It\u2019s more like a series of lights, colours, and soft movements rather than anything precise or defined. Knowing this in advance can make the experience feel much less intimidating. With this understanding, you can go into your procedure feeling calmer and more prepared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychological Concerns About Losing Control<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
It is completely normal to feel uneasy about not being in control of your eye during surgery. For many people, this is one of the biggest worries before RLE. However, the procedure is specifically designed so that you do not need to control anything yourself. Every aspect is carefully managed by the surgical team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you understand this, it can make a big difference to how you feel going into the procedure. You are not expected to \u201cperform\u201d or keep your eye still through effort. Your only role is to stay relaxed and follow simple guidance, such as looking at a light. This takes a lot of pressure off you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Surgeons and clinical teams are very experienced in helping patients feel comfortable and reassured. They will talk you through each step and check that you are doing well throughout. Clear communication is a routine part of your care. You are supported from start to finish, which helps you feel more at ease during the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What If You Panic During the Procedure?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s completely understandable to wonder how you might feel during RLE surgery, especially if you\u2019re someone who gets anxious in medical settings. The reassuring thing is that true panic during the procedure is very rare. You\u2019re carefully looked after from start to finish, and there\u2019s always someone focused on your comfort. You\u2019re never left alone, and support is always within reach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- You\u2019ll be closely monitored throughout the procedure<\/strong>:<\/strong> From the moment your surgery begins, the surgical team keeps a constant eye on how you\u2019re doing. They\u2019re not just focused on the technical side they\u2019re also paying attention to your comfort and wellbeing. If you show any signs of discomfort or anxiety, they\u2019ll respond straight away. This continuous monitoring helps keep everything calm and controlled.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You can communicate at any time<\/strong>:<\/strong> Even during the procedure, you\u2019re able to speak and let the team know how you\u2019re feeling. If something doesn\u2019t feel right or you start to feel uneasy, you can say so. The team is used to guiding patients through these moments and will reassure you immediately. Knowing you have a voice during surgery can make a big difference to how relaxed you feel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The procedure can be paused if needed<\/strong>:<\/strong> If you do feel overwhelmed, the surgeon can pause the procedure safely. There\u2019s no pressure to rush, and everything is done at a steady, controlled pace. Taking a brief pause allows you to settle and regain your comfort before continuing. Your safety and peace of mind always come first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mild sedation can help you feel more relaxed<\/strong>:<\/strong> In some cases, you may be offered a light sedative to help you stay calm. This doesn\u2019t put you fully to sleep but simply takes the edge off any anxiety. Many patients find this helpful, especially if they\u2019re feeling particularly nervous beforehand. That said, most people go through the procedure comfortably without needing it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
In reality, the environment during RLE surgery is calm, supportive, and carefully managed. The team is experienced in helping patients feel at ease, even if they\u2019re initially nervous. With clear communication and the option for extra support if needed, you\u2019re in very safe hands. Understanding this can help you approach the procedure with much more confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How Long You Need to Stay Still<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
RLE surgery is relatively quick, which can make the idea of staying still feel much less overwhelming. In most cases, the procedure takes less than 20 minutes per eye. Because it is over in a short amount of time, you are not left in one position for long. This helps make the whole experience feel more manageable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You are also not expected to stay completely motionless throughout the procedure. Small, natural movements are normal and fully anticipated by your surgeon. The surgical setup is designed to account for these tiny shifts without affecting the outcome. This means you do not need to worry about being perfectly still.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the procedure, you will be given simple and clear instructions to follow. These are usually easy to manage, such as focusing on a light or staying relaxed. You do not need to overthink your movements or try too hard. Keeping things simple helps you stay comfortable and confident throughout the surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why Modern Technology Makes This Safe<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Advancements in eye surgery technology have made RLE procedures safer and more precise than ever. Modern instruments and high-resolution imaging systems allow your surgeon to work with exceptional accuracy. This means the procedure is carefully controlled at every stage. As a result, there is much less reliance on you needing to stay perfectly still.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Today\u2019s techniques are designed with natural human responses in mind. Small eye movements and reflexes, such as the urge to blink, are expected and accounted for. The technology used during surgery helps maintain stability even if these reactions occur. Safety features are built into every step to support a smooth and controlled experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is one of the reasons why RLE surgery has such a strong safety profile. It does not depend on perfect patient behaviour to be successful. Instead, the entire system is designed to work alongside your natural responses. This allows you to relax, knowing that the procedure is structured to keep you safe without requiring effort from your side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Common Myths About Opening Your Eyes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
One common myth is that suddenly opening your eye during RLE surgery could disrupt or ruin the procedure. In reality, your eye is already gently held open and stabilised from the very beginning. There is no moment where your eye can suddenly \u201copen\u201d in a way that causes a problem. Everything is carefully controlled to keep your eye in the correct position throughout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another misconception is that blinking could cause damage during surgery. As explained earlier, blinking is physically prevented using a small device that keeps your eyelids open. This means the risk is completely removed. Even if you feel the natural urge to blink, it will not interfere with the procedure at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you understand these myths, it becomes much easier to let go of unnecessary worry. Most concerns come from not knowing how the procedure actually works. Once you have accurate information, the process feels far less intimidating. This clarity can help you feel more relaxed and confident about your surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How Surgeons Are Trained for These Situations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Eye surgeons go through extensive training to manage every aspect of procedures like RLE surgery. This includes understanding and handling natural patient movements, such as small eye shifts or reflex responses. These situations are not unexpected or unusual. In fact, they are a routine part of what surgeons prepare for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your surgeon is trained to maintain control even if conditions change slightly during the procedure. They know when to pause, adjust their approach, and continue safely. This ability to adapt is a key part of their skill set. It ensures that the procedure remains controlled and precise at all times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Experience also plays a major role in your overall safety and outcome. When you choose a qualified specialist, you are placing yourself in capable and experienced hands. This can make a big difference to how confident and reassured you feel. Trust in your surgeon helps reduce anxiety and makes the entire experience more comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Preparing Yourself Mentally for Surgery<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1-93-1024x559.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPreparing yourself mentally can make a real difference to how you experience RLE surgery. When you understand what is going to happen, the fear of the unknown naturally reduces. Knowing the steps involved helps you feel more in control, even though the procedure itself is managed by your surgeon. This kind of clarity often builds confidence before the day of surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Simple relaxation techniques, such as slow and controlled breathing, can also help you stay calm. Focusing on steady breathing helps reduce tension and keeps your mind relaxed during the procedure. Most people find that once they are in the chair, the experience feels smoother and less intimidating than they expected. The anticipation is often worse than the reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Trusting the process is an important part of mental preparation. The entire procedure is designed with your comfort and safety in mind from start to finish. You are continuously supported by the clinical team throughout. When you allow yourself to rely on that support, the experience often feels more manageable and reassuring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FAQs:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Can I accidentally close my eyes during RLE surgery?<\/strong>
No, you cannot. A small device called an eyelid speculum gently keeps your eye open throughout the procedure, so blinking or closing your eye is physically prevented.<\/p>\n\n\n\n2. What happens if I try to blink during the surgery?<\/strong>
If you try to blink, nothing harmful happens. The speculum stops your eyelids from closing, so the procedure continues safely without interruption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Will I feel pain if my eye moves or if I try to blink?<\/strong>
No, you will not feel pain. Anaesthetic eye drops numb the surface of your eye, so even if you feel slight pressure or movement, it is not painful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Can my eye movement affect the outcome of the surgery?<\/strong>
Small, natural eye movements are completely normal and expected. Surgeons are trained to manage them, and modern technology compensates for minor shifts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n5. What if I suddenly move my eye too much?<\/strong>
If there is a larger movement, the surgeon can pause instantly and wait for your eye to stabilise. The procedure is controlled and never rushed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n6. Do I need to keep staring at one point the entire time?<\/strong>
You will usually be asked to look at a light, but you do not need to maintain perfect focus. Minor shifts are acceptable and safely managed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n7. Will I see surgical instruments coming towards my eye?<\/strong>
No, you will not see detailed instruments. Most patients only notice bright lights, colours, or blurred shapes during the procedure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n8. What if I panic during RLE surgery?<\/strong>
If you feel anxious, you can communicate with the surgical team at any time. They can pause the procedure and help you relax. Mild sedation may also be available if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n9. How long do I need to stay still during the procedure?<\/strong>
RLE surgery is quick, usually around 15\u201320 minutes per eye. You do not need to stay perfectly still natural micro-movements are expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n10. Is it dangerous if I try to open my eyes wider during surgery?<\/strong>
No, it is not dangerous. Your eye is already safely held open, and trying to open it further does not affect the procedure in any way.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFinal Thoughts: You Are Supported Every Step of the Way<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If there is one thing I want you to take away from this, it is that you are never expected to control your eye during RLE surgery. The entire procedure is designed around your natural reactions, not against them. Blinking, small movements, or even moments of uncertainty are all anticipated and safely managed by the surgical team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In reality, what feels like a loss of control is actually a carefully controlled environment where every detail has been thought through in advance. Your eyelids are gently stabilised, your eye is numbed, and your surgeon is constantly monitoring and adjusting as needed. You are not responsible for keeping things \u201cperfect\u201d that is entirely the role of the professionals around you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most patients go into the procedure feeling anxious about what might happen, but come out surprised by how calm and manageable the experience actually was. Understanding the process removes much of the fear and replaces it with confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re considering RLE surgery in London<\/a>, you can get in touch with us at London Cataract Centre. Ultimately, RLE is not about testing your ability to stay still it is about giving you better vision through a procedure that is designed to be as safe, controlled, and comfortable as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
References:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Lee, C.Y., Yang, S.F., Chen, H.C., Lian, I.B., Huang, J.Y. and Chang, C.K., 2024. Comparison of visual and refractive outcomes between refractive lens exchange and keratorefractive lenticule extraction surgery in moderate to high myopia. Diagnostics, 15(1), 43. Available at: https:\/\/www.mdpi.com\/2075-4418\/15\/1\/43<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Baur, I.D., M\u00fcller, A., Labuz, G., Naujokaitis, T., Auffarth, G.U. and Khoramnia, R., 2024. Refractive lens exchange: a review. Klinische Monatsbl\u00e4tter f\u00fcr Augenheilkunde, 241(8), pp.893\u2013904. Available at: https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/39146574\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ali\u00f3, J.L., Grzybowski, A., Romaniuk, D. and El Aswad, A., 2014. Refractive lens exchange. Survey of Ophthalmology, 59(6), pp.579\u2013598. Available at: https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/25127929\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Sun, E. and Kraus, C.L., 2023. Clear lens extraction and refractive lens exchange for the treatment of amblyopia. Saudi Journal of Ophthalmology, 38(3), pp.195\u2013200. Available at: https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC11503977\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Jha, R.K. and Kurumkattil, R. (2022) Can lubrication of the eyelid speculum reduce overall pain perception associated with cataract surgery by phacoemulsification performed under topical anesthesia? Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, 70(5), pp. 1606\u20131611. Available at: https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC9332952\/<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
If you are preparing for refractive lens exchange, one of the most common concerns is losing control of your eye during the procedure. You may wonder what happens if you blink, move, or try to open your eyes at the wrong moment. These fears are completely normal, especially when you are not used to eye […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":5268,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5260","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5260","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5260"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5260\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5269,"href":"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5260\/revisions\/5269"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5268"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5260"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5260"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.londoncataractcentre.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5260"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
- Baur, I.D., M\u00fcller, A., Labuz, G., Naujokaitis, T., Auffarth, G.U. and Khoramnia, R., 2024. Refractive lens exchange: a review. Klinische Monatsbl\u00e4tter f\u00fcr Augenheilkunde, 241(8), pp.893\u2013904. Available at: https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/39146574\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You can communicate at any time<\/strong>:<\/strong> Even during the procedure, you\u2019re able to speak and let the team know how you\u2019re feeling. If something doesn\u2019t feel right or you start to feel uneasy, you can say so. The team is used to guiding patients through these moments and will reassure you immediately. Knowing you have a voice during surgery can make a big difference to how relaxed you feel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You may notice bright lights and shifting colours: <\/strong>The surgical microscope produces a strong, bright light that helps your surgeon see clearly. From your perspective, this can appear as a glowing light or even changing colours. Some patients describe it as similar to looking through a kaleidoscope. These visual effects are completely normal and nothing to be concerned about.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The procedure can be paused if needed<\/strong>: <\/strong>If your eye makes a slightly larger or sudden movement, there\u2019s no need to worry. The surgeon can simply pause for a moment and wait for your eye to settle. Nothing is rushed, and every step is performed with care and control. This ensures that your safety always comes first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n