Postoperative Eye Care
Post-Operative Eye Care
When it comes to surgery, eye care is of particular importance. Post-operative eye care involves taking special precautions and following certain instructions in order to ensure the best possible outcome. Whether you’ve had major eye surgery such as a cataract removal or a minor one such as for a scratched cornea, it is important to follow the right post-operative eye care plan.
Five Things to Know for Post-Operative Eye Care
The following five tips are recommended for post-operative eye care:
- Take medications as prescribed by your doctor.
- Wear protective eyewear (sunglasses or other glasses) when outside.
- Avoid contact sports, swimming, baths or hot tubs, or any activity that increases your risk of infection.
- Keep your eye area clean and dry, and follow your doctor’s instructions for eye hygiene and care.
- Attend all follow-up visits as directed by your healthcare provider.
Eye Protection
Protecting your eyes from further damage is an important part of post-operative eye care. Wear sunglasses or other protective eyewear when outside, as UV rays from the sun can increase the risk of eye complications or infection. Additionally, avoid contact sports or any activities which may put your eyes at risk of further injury.
Eye Care Routine
It is important to clean your operated eye area regularly as part of your post-operative eye care routine. Use a mild, non-abrasive soap and warm water to gently clean the area. When applying soap, be sure to avoid getting any soap in your eyes. When rinsing, make sure to use warm and not hot water, as the heat from the water can potentially cause irritation.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions for care after surgery. However, there may still be some questions regarding post-operative eye care that you would like to ask them. These may include:
- How long should I wear protective eyewear?
- What activity restrictions should I be aware of?
- Are there any activities I should avoid, such as swimming or contact sports?
- What are signs and symptoms of infection that I should look for?
- Are there any dietary restrictions I should follow?
It is essential to adhere to the instructions given to you by your medical provider to ensure the best possible outcome after your surgery. Knowing how to properly care for your eyes after surgery is a necessary part of the healing process.