Oral Sedation: A Stress-Free Approach to Advanced Eye Surgery

At SightTrust Eye Institute, patient comfort isn’t just a bonus—it’s part of the care plan. That’s why our patients receive oral sedation to ensure a smooth, relaxing experience during advanced eye procedures like Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) and custom cataract surgery.

What Is Oral Sedation?

Oral sedation involves taking a pill before your procedure to help you relax. It’s a simple, low-risk method that puts patients at ease without the need for IVs or general anesthesia. You remain responsive, but your body is calm, and your mind is at ease. The best part is that you don’t have much recollection of the procedure after it is over!

Why SightTrust Recommends Oral Sedation

Dr. Andrew Shatz and the team at SightTrust have performed thousands of successful eye surgeries using oral sedation. Here’s why it’s a trusted choice:

1. Stress-Free, Start to Finish

Eye surgery — no matter how advanced — can cause anxiety. Oral sedation takes the edge off. You won’t be tense or nervous. Most patients describe the experience as peaceful, even enjoyable.

2. No Needles, No IVs

Many people are more anxious about needles than the surgery itself. Oral sedation eliminates that concern. Just a pill and a few minutes of waiting is all it takes to feel calm and ready.

3. Fast Recovery

Unlike general anesthesia, oral sedation wears off quickly. You’ll be alert shortly after the procedure, with minimal downtime. Most patients return home with a companion and feel back to normal within hours.

4. Safe and Effective

Oral sedation is a safe option for the vast majority of patients. It’s carefully prescribed and monitored by our team to match your health profile and needs. The goal is always a comfortable, low-risk experience with the highest standard of surgical care.

5. A Better Surgical Experience

SightTrust specializes in advanced, lens-based procedures. These surgeries require precision, and your comfort contributes to a smooth process. When you’re relaxed, your eyes are steady and cooperative, helping the surgeon deliver the best results possible.

6. No Need for Fasting

Because you are essentially taking a sleeping pill, you do not have to fast before the procedure and can have a full meal. Just avoid caffeinated products so you can get sleepy easier!

Patients Choose It—Again and Again

All of our patients receive oral sedation. The feedback is consistent: “It was easy,” “I felt calm,” and “I wish I had done this sooner.”

At SightTrust, we believe great vision care shouldn’t come with unnecessary stress. If you’re considering a procedure like RLE or custom cataract surgery, ask us about sedation options. You might be surprised how easy it can be.