What care is needed after cataract surgery?
Published on
Do you know what postoperative care is needed after cataract surgery? Following a series of recommendations is essential for optimal recovery without complications. Although this is a minimally invasive day-case procedure, certain aspects of care need attention during the following weeks. The most important measures are detailed below:
1. Avoid rubbing or touching the eye
This helps prevent infection and protects the incision from potential damage.
2. Wear an eye shield at night
During the first week, wearing a protective shield while sleeping is recommended to prevent accidental knocks or rubbing.
3. Apply postoperative eye drops
Antibiotics are generally prescribed to prevent infection, and anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce inflammation and promote healing. It is crucial to wash your hands thoroughly before applying the drops and to apply them correctly: pull down the lower eyelid to form a pocket for the drop, avoiding lifting the upper eyelid so as not to put pressure on the eye.
4. Avoid strenuous physical activity
During the first two or three weeks, do not lift heavy objects, exercise vigorously or make sudden movements such as bending down quickly, to protect the eye while it heals.
5. Protect the eye from contact with water
Avoid tap water, swimming pools and the sea, as they may contain germs that could infect the eye through the surgical incisions.
6. Wear sunglasses in the immediate postoperative period
If the eye is uncovered, sunglasses can help reduce light sensitivity, as the pupil may still be dilated after surgery, which can increase glare.
Postoperative check-ups usually take place the day after surgery and then a week or a month later. Blurred vision in the first few days is normal because of inflammation after surgery, but vision should improve progressively over the first 5–7 days.
Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram to learn much more about your vision. You can also read our latest articles on the blog, where we discuss different eye conditions, symptoms and treatments.