I can relate to your concerns. At some point I will likely need cataract surgery. I have had the narrow angles procedure done (Iridotomy) making cataract surgery very important just as soon as needed. But like you I could not skip my airway clearance. I have about 3 ounces of mucus a day. But since almost all of that comes up during my first airway clearance late morning, I wonder if doing the cataract surgery after that would make it safer to do. I could skip the evening "cough up" but would need to resume the next day late morning. Wonder if that would be enough time after the surgery. Let us know if you find any solutions to your issue or if doing your clearance prior to surgery would allow you to do it?