When should topical anesthetics primarily be used?

Topical anesthetics are primarily used in surgical procedures due to their ability to provide localized pain relief. During surgery, whether it's a minor procedure or a more invasive intervention, these anesthetics facilitate the process by numbing the surface of the eye and surrounding tissues. This helps to keep the patient comfortable and reduces anxiety, allowing the surgeon to perform necessary tasks without causing pain.

While topical anesthetics may have applications during patient examinations to enhance comfort, their primary and more effective use is in surgical settings where precise, controlled management of pain is crucial. They are not utilized for chronic eye conditions, as these typically require different therapeutic approaches aimed at managing underlying issues or providing longer-term relief. Additionally, topical anesthetics are not indicated for treating infections, as they do not have any antimicrobial properties and therefore cannot address the root cause of infectious concerns.