Discharge Instructions for Cataract Surgery
A surgeon removed the cloudy lens in your eye and replaced it with a clear manmade lens. Be sure to have an adult family member or friend drive you home after surgery. Here’s what you can expect following surgery and tips for a healthy recovery.
It is normal to have the following:
-
Bruised or bloodshot eye for
7 days -
Scratchy, sandlike feeling in the eye for
2 weeks -
Tired feeling, especially during the first
24 hours
Activity
-
Do not drive for
2 day(s). -
Do not drink alcohol for at least
24 hours. -
Avoid heavy lifting for
2 day(s). -
Relax for the first
24 hours after surgery. Watching TV and reading are OK and won’t harm your eye.
Eye Protection
-
Do not rub your eye.
-
Sleep on your back or on your unoperated side for
2 night(s). -
If instructed, wear a bandage over your eye for
2 day(s) and2 night(s). -
If instructed, wear a shield to protect your eye for
2 day(s) and2 night(s).
Using Eyedrops
You may be given special eyedrops or ointment. Here is one way to use eyedrops:
-
Tilt your head back.
-
Pull your bottom eyelid down.
-
Squeeze one drop into your eye. Do not touch your eye with the bottle tip.
-
Close your eyes for a few seconds.
-
If you need more than one drop, wait a few minutes before adding the next one.
Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following:
-
Bleeding or discharge from the eye
-
Your vision suddenly becomes worse
-
Pain not relieved by the pain reliever you’re told to take
-
Nausea or vomiting
-
Chills or fever over
100.4 °F
