One of the commonest eye surgeries is—cataract surgery—which although has a high success rate, still needs some precautions for the best possible outcome. Here are some post-surgical tips according to Eye specialist in Lahore that will help in the recovery:
Avoid Driving
For a few days after the surgery, your vision will not be clear enough to go driving. Depending on the healing of the eye, your surgeon will have to give you the go-ahead before you can take the wheels. Before going for the surgery, be sure to arrange a car!
Avoid Getting Water in the Eyes
You are allowed to take a shower after the surgery, but be sure to take maximum precautions. In the first week after the surgery, the eye wound is susceptible to infection, and bacteria in the water can infest the eye. Therefore, it is better to avoid bathing, swimming and washing the face with the eyes open. In the period immediately after surgery, face wipes and damp cloths are best to wash the face with.
Protect the Eyes
There is a protective shield placed on the eye after the procedure that you can remove, but need to wear while sleeping. The idea of this shield is to protect against pollutants, dirt and rubbing. This shield should be worn for at least a week after the surgery.
Protecting the eyes includes staying away from dusty and polluted areas as the eyes are sensitive to air-borne infectants and allergens.
Avoid Harsh Lighting
During the day, it is recommended to wear dark shades to protect the eye from sunlight and accidental touch. Flashing lights, harsh light, sunlight, light from the television, laptop or any screen can delay healing and irritate the eyes. For the first few weeks after surgery, the eyes are sensitive to light, and it is important to rest them. Even room lights should be dimmed or turned off where possible. Only dim light and soft lamp lights are allowed.
Don’t Do Strenuous Exercises
Heavy exercises, and lifting weights put a strain on the eyes. Therefore, to avoid this strain, be sure not to perform any strenuous activities immediately after the surgery. If you need to return to the gym, be sure to ask your healthcare provider.
Don’t Rub the Eyes
This one goes without saying! Rubbing the eyes can not only transfer the bacteria and microorganisms from the hand to the eye, but also disrupt the stitches and the lens of the eye. Even for healthy eyes, rubbing is a bad idea.
Go for the Follow-up Appointment
Your healthcare provider will schedule appointments to check-up on the eye a few weeks after the surgery. In the visits post-op, the doctor checks the rate of recovery, signs of inflammation and the healing of the eye. During these visits, the doctor may also change or stop certain medication.
Do Not Use Eye Makeup
It is not recommended to wear eye makeup for a week or so after the procedure. Even when your doctor allows you to wear eye-makeup, be sure that the products are not expired. Avoid using eye makeup that is not personally yours.
Symptoms to Watch After Surgery:
The following symptoms warrant an immediate visit to the doctor:
If there is sudden vision loss, there might be an issue that needs to be addressed immediately. This also goes for any distortion in the vision as well, including light flashes and floaters in front of the eye. Excessive coughing, and have severe nausea or vomiting are also warning signs of seriousness. If any of these aforementioned symptoms occur, head to your ophthalmologist or Eye specialist in Karachi.