Artist's impression of endocapsular phacoemulsification surgery.

A 77-year-old artist having endocapsular phacoemulsification surgery and intraocular lens implantation illustrated her visual impressions of the procedure in 6 stages, from draping to lens implantation. Her illustrations and commentary indicate that she experienced clear visualization of instruments and colorful abstract imagery. These paintings were shown to 30 consecutive patients to assess their usefulness in preoperatively informing and preparing patients for surgery. With the widespread use of local and topical anesthesia, it is pertinent to the ophthalmic surgeon to understand what patients may seen when vision is retained during the procedure.