No. Cataract surgery is performed under ‘twilight sedation’. You will be very relaxed and comfortable and have no memory of your surgery. A general anaesthetic, where a breathing tube is inserted and a ventilator is used, is not needed. In fact, a general anaesthetic has significantly more risks associated with it compared to twilight sedation.
It is completely normal to feel apprehensive or nervous about an operation. You will be provided with the details of your anaesthetist prior to your surgery and are encouraged to contact them for discussion if you wish.