Your cataract surgery is performed using a local anesthetic, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. Before commencing with cataract removal, your doctor will insert powerful numbing eye drops, so even the administration of the anesthetic is completely painless. You may also receive a mild sedative to help ease the natural nervousness that can arise. You don't feel pain but you're aware that there is something happening in a part of the face. The numbing medication will wear off gradually after your treatment, paving the way to post-operative soreness or scratchiness. These side effects are usually well-managed with post-operative eye drops provided by North Suburban Eye Associates.