Eye Surgery

Cataract is an eye disease where the lens of the eye becomes clouded. This disease is prevalent among elderly people. The vision becomes blurred or hazy and gradually there may lead to a complete loss of vision. Cataracts are usually treated with an eye surgery in which the lens of the eye is changed. The procedure has become very easy with the introduction of laser eye surgery. The patient can go back home within a few hours after the lasik surgery. However, to prevent any complications, a few post-operative precautions have to be followed.

Following are some of the precautions that should be taken after cataract eye surgery:

• Follow the doctor's instructions

The doctors prescribe medicines and eye drops after surgery. The patient should take the prescribed medicines and use the eye drops as suggested. Always clean the hands before using eye drops and refrain from putting the bottle too close to the eye.

• Keep your eyes away from water

Water should not enter the eyes for a few weeks after eye surgery. While bathing and washing hair, the patient should take utmost precautions. Also, instead of washing the face with water, it should be cleaned with a moist sponge.

• Protect eyes

Post operation, the patient should protect the eyes. Dark-colored glasses that are ultraviolet-protected should be used, which will protect the eyes from bright sunlight while outside. These glasses are to be worn even when the person is indoors too.

• Avoid dust

No foreign particle should enter the eye after surgery. This may cause infection in the eyes. Hence, it is advised to remain indoors, if possible. Though the patient can resume to his or her work in a few days, use of glasses is a must.

• Don't drive

A person should not drive for at least one week after an eye surgery. The eye needs some time to heal and should not be stressed.

• Avoid rubbing eyes

The eyes should not be rubbed. No stress should be put on the eyes like pressing the eyes and so on.

• Avoid strenuous activities

Strenuous activities like lifting objects, exercising or playing outdoor games should be avoided for a month after an eye surgery.

After cataract surgery, it takes around six to eight weeks for the eye to completely heal, and therefore proper precautions should be taken during this period. Though mild discomfort may be experienced after the eye surgery, if the patient experiences severe pain or redness, it is best to consult the doctor.