Eye Surgery Post-Operative Instructions
Your Guide to Safe and Comfortable Healing
Congratulations on taking a significant step towards clearer vision! The success of your eye surgery (such as Cataract, Refractive, or Vitreo-Retinal procedures) depends heavily on the care you take during the post-operative period. At Vijay Eye Care Hospital, we are committed to supporting your quick and comfortable recovery. Please follow these instructions carefully. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us immediately.
Care at Home: The First 24-48 Hours
1. Medication and Drops
Strict Schedule: Use all prescribed eye drops exactly as directed by your surgeon (e.g., antibiotic drops, anti-inflammatory drops). Follow the specified sequence and timing.
Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes or administering drops.
Technique: Do not let the tip of the dropper touch your eye or lashes. Pull down your lower eyelid gently and place the drop into the pocket. Close your eye slowly.
2. Protection
Wear the Eye Shield: You must wear the plastic eye shield (or protective glasses) provided by the hospital continuously for the first 24 hours, and every night while sleeping for at least the first week. This prevents accidental rubbing or pressure on the eye.
Glasses: Wear your non-prescription protective eyewear (if provided) during the day to prevent dust or wind exposure.
3. Rest and Activity
Rest: Get plenty of rest. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting (over $5 \text{ kg}$), and bending over sharply for the first week, as this increases pressure in the eye.
Sleeping: Sleep on your back or the side opposite the operated eye. Do not sleep on the operated side.
Vision: Your vision may be blurry or hazy immediately after surgery. This is normal and will improve daily.
Do’s and Don’ts for the First Week
DO’s (Actions to Take)
✅ Cleanliness: Keep the area around your eye clean. Use a clean cloth to gently wipe the area outside the shield, if necessary.
✅ Follow-up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments at Vijay Eye Care Hospital. The first post-operative check-up is critical.
✅ Diet: Maintain a normal, healthy diet.
DON’Ts (Actions to Avoid)
❌ No Rubbing: ABSOLUTELY DO NOT rub or press the operated eye for at least one month.
❌ No Water Entry: AVOID getting soap, water, or shampoo directly into the eye for the first week. When showering, tilt your head backward.
❌ No Makeup: Do not use eye makeup (mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow) for at least two weeks.
❌ No Contaminants: Avoid dusty environments, swimming, hot tubs, and garden work for at least one month to prevent infection.
❌ No Driving: Do not drive until your surgeon confirms your vision meets the legal standard and you feel completely comfortable.
Warning Signs: When to Contact Us Immediately
It is rare to experience complications, but if you notice any of the following symptoms, contact Vijay Eye Care Hospital immediately—do not wait for your next appointment:
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Sudden Severe Pain: Sharp, intense pain that is not relieved by prescribed painkillers.
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Significant Decrease in Vision: A sudden, noticeable worsening of vision.
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Excessive Redness: The white of the eye becomes intensely red or bloodshot.
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Pus/Discharge: Any thick, yellowish, or greenish discharge coming from the eye.
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Swelling: Severe or increasing swelling around the eye or eyelid.
Vijay Eye Care Hospital Emergency Contact: +91 93848 16487