How to Care for Your Eyes After Surgery

In many cases, surgery is the primary treatment to preserve vision for serious conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment, and severe refractive errors. While modern eye procedures are often minimally invasive, they remain delicate operations that require careful aftercare.

Proper recovery is vital to promote healing, protect the eye, and achieve the best possible visual outcome. Without it, complications such as infection, delayed healing, scarring, prolonged discomfort, or even permanent vision loss may occur. Whether you are preparing for eye surgery or helping someone during their recovery, this article provides a general guide to help you achieve a smooth and successful healing process.

Immediate Aftercare Instructions

The first 24–72 hours after surgery are crucial for protecting your eyes and promoting proper healing. During this period, follow these essential steps:

Eye Protection

• Wear your eye shield or patch as directed, especially while sleeping, to prevent accidental rubbing or pressure.
• Use sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from UV light and reduce sensitivity.
• Avoid dusty, smoky, or windy environments to minimise irritation and infection risk.

Resting Your Eyes

• Limit screen use (phones, computers, TV) to prevent eye strain.
• Take regular naps or short breaks to support natural healing.
• Stay in dimly lit rooms, as light sensitivity is common in the first few days. Soft lighting can help your eyes recover more comfortably.

Safe Sleeping Positions

• Sleep on your back or on the side opposite the operated eye to avoid pressure.
• Keep your head elevated with 1–2 pillows to reduce swelling and fluid buildup.
• Avoid sleeping face-down or turning toward the operated side for at least one week.

Using Prescribed Eye Drops

• Apply your prescribed eye drops exactly as instructed to prevent infection and control inflammation.
• Do not skip doses, as consistent use is key to a smooth recovery.

Things to Avoid During the Healing Period

After eye surgery, protecting your eyes from strain, injury, or infection is just as important as following your aftercare routine. Certain activities can interfere with healing, increase the risk of complications, or delay your recovery. Here are key things to remember during this period:

Do Not Rub or Touch Your Eyes

Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, as this can dislodge stitches, damage the surgical site and introduce bacteria, potentially leading to infection.

Keep Water Out of Your Eyes

Refrain from swimming, using hot tubs or exposing your eyes to unclean water for at least 2–4 weeks. Water exposure can increase the risk of infection and cause irritation.

Avoid Eye Makeup

Skip eyeliner, mascara and other eye cosmetics for at least 1–2 weeks after surgery. These products can irritate the eyes or introduce harmful bacteria.

Limit Strenuous Activities

Avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, bending over, or any activity that puts strain on your body for at least 1–2 weeks or longer if advised by your doctor.

Do Not Drive Too Soon

Wait a few days before driving, as your vision may remain blurry or unstable in the initial recovery period. Always follow your ophthalmologist’s guidance before getting behind the wheel.

When to Resume Work & Screen Time

Most patients can return to work within 3–7 days after eye surgery, particularly if their job is not physically demanding. However, recovery speed varies for each individual. Factors like age, overall health, the complexity of the surgery, and adherence to aftercare instructions all influence the timeline.

When resuming work, especially in roles that require extended screen time, take these steps to reduce eye strain:

• Schedule regular breaks to rest the eyes.
• Adjust screen brightness to a comfortable level.
• Monitor for discomfort such as dryness, blurred vision, or eye fatigue and address symptoms promptly.

Follow-Up Appointments

Follow-up appointments after eye surgery are essential for a safe and smooth recovery. These visits allow your ophthalmologist to monitor healing, detect early signs of complications and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Regular check-ups help prevent issues such as infection, increased eye pressure or delayed healing.

In addition to attending follow-up check-ups, it is important to watch for warning signs that may indicate complications. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden vision loss
• Severe or worsening eye pain
• Increasing redness or swelling
• Heightened sensitivity to light
• Flashes of light in your vision
• A sudden increase in floaters
• Any discharge from the eye

Skipping follow-up appointments or ignoring these symptoms can put your vision and long-term eye health at serious risk. If you have concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.