What Precautions Should Be Taken After Eye Surgery?

Individuals who experience eye conditions or vision problems like retinal detachment, glaucoma, or cataracts may have to get eye surgery as a necessary procedure. It can enhance your quality of life by improving your vision. 

However, it is also vital to understand that this medical procedure requires precautions and proper care after surgery. Read on to learn what precautions to take during the postoperative period. 

Eye Protection From Trauma

Eye protection is vital after eye surgery. It helps prevent injury or trauma. It includes avoiding activities that can injure the eyes, like heavy lifting or contact sports. You must also avoid rubbing your eyes. 

Doing so can dislodge the protective shield that your specialist places over your eyes during surgery. Wear protective eyewear like sunglasses to shield your eyes from environmental factors like the wind and sun that can damage or irritate your eyes.

Follow the Instructions Your Doctor Gives

Patients must follow their doctor's instructions carefully after eye surgery to avoid complications. Your eye specialist will instruct you on the ideal way to care for your eyes and what to use during recovery, like the particular ointments or eyedrops to use and how often to do it. 

Avoid Strenuous Activities

Avoid strenuous activities that can increase blood pressure after eye surgery. They include exercising, running, and heavy lifting. It is also vital to avoid activities that cause excessive sweating. They can delay healing or irritate your eyes. Speak to your eye doctor if you have to participate in a particular activity. They will determine its level of safety.

Maintain Proper Hygiene for Your Eyes

Infection after eye surgery can be detrimental. Thus, it is vital to keep your eye clean. Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes to prevent introducing bacteria and other pathogens into your eyes. Use a sterile saline solution and a cloth to clean your eyes. Avoid products like makeup around your eyes for about two weeks postsurgery or until your eye doctor approves.

Get Adequate Rest

Rest is crucial after eye surgery. Plenty of it allows your eyes to heal and your body to recover properly. Avoid activities that can strain your eye, like using a computer, watching television, or reading. They can delay your healing and cause strain on your eyes. But if you must do any of these activities, make a conscious effort to take frequent breaks. Soothe and hydrate your eyes using artificial tears.

Manage Your Pain

Pain and discomfort are normal after eye surgery. Your eye specialist will give you some pain medications to help manage such symptoms. Avoid side effects or delaying your healing by not taking an overdose of the medicine. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience excessive pain or unusual symptoms.

Follow up Appointments

Ensure you’re on top of your progress by following up with your eye specialist after surgery. Report any symptoms or changes you may experience immediately to your eye doctor to ensure you get the help you need.

For more about eye surgery, visit Custom Eyes Optical at our office in Selden, New York. Call (631) 230-6230 to book an appointment today.