Cataract surgery: How to take care of your eyes for a safe recovery

Cataracts are a common occurence with age. It creates a cloudy film in the lens of the eyes and impacts the clarity of your vision. Objects may begin to seem hazy or blurred, affecting the way you read, spend screne time or engage in other daily activities. With time, cataracts can grow worse and even lead to vision loss. This is why experts recommend timely cataract surgery. However, the ordeal doesn’t end there. You must know how to take care of your eyes after a cataract surgery to have a safer recovery.

“After cataract surgery, it is important to take proper care of your eyes to ensure a smooth recovery and minimize the risk of complications,” Dr Neha Sawant, Senior Consultant, Opthalmology, Pristyn Care, tells Health Shots.

Sometimes, cataracts can be managed at home, but in advanced stages, it needs to be operated. Before deciding a date for your cataract surgery, the surgeon will check on your health parameters and comorbidities such as heart problems or diabetes. A cataract surgery is usually considered painless and may finish as quicky as under an hour. Your cloudy eye lens is replaced by an artificial lens that helps you with clearer vision. Thanks to advancement in science and technology, the procedure has become quicker and safer, but you’ve got to know how to take care of your eyes after a cataract surgery. Your smooth recovery after cataract removal is in your hands.

Also read: Is it safe for diabetics to undergo cataract surgery?

Safety tips to follow after a cataract surgery

1. Follow instructions given by your eye surgeon

Your surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions based on your individual circumstances. It is crucial to follow these instructions closely for optimal healing. Make sure you have a head bath one day prior to the day of surgery and eat light food before going for your surgery.

2. Use prescribed eye drops

Your surgeon will likely prescribe several eye drops, including antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops. Use them as directed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Shake the vial before instilling any eye drop. This insures proper dosage. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before applying the eye drops.

3. Avoid strenuous activities

Refrain from activities that may strain your eyes or increase eye pressure, such as heavy lifting, bending over, straining over stools or engaging in intense exercise.

4. Prevent eye contamination

Keep your eyes clean and avoid exposing them to potentially contaminated environments. Avoid swimming in pools or hot tubs, and try to minimize exposure to dust, dirt, or other irritants.

Also read: Indians are at a higher risk of getting cataract, tips to mitigate the risk

5. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes

It is crucial to resist the urge to touch or rub your eyes, as this can increase the risk of infection or displacing the intraocular lens (IOL) that was implanted during surgery.

6. Continue your routine medications

Any medicines which have been prescribed for diabetes, blood pressure and other disease by your physician should be taken even on the day of surgery unless specifically contraindicated by your surgeon.

7. Protect your eyes from bright lights and inadvertent injury

Wear dark glasses in the post-operative period, especially when you go outside to protect your eyes from bright lights and accidental injuries. Do this till at least in the first few weeks after the cataract surgery.

8. Attend follow-up appointments

Don’t miss the scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon. These visits allow your doctor to monitor your healing progress and modulate your treatment accordingly.

Follow these do’s ad don’ts after a cataract surgery to get back your clear vision safely!