What not to do after cataract surgery?

Asked by: Thaddeus Lindgren  |  Last update: December 12, 2023
Score: 4.1/5 (34 votes)

Don't:
  • do not rub your eyes.
  • do not allow soap or shampoo to get into your eye.
  • do not drive until you get the all-clear from your doctor.
  • do not do any strenuous exercise or housework.
  • do not wear eye make-up for at least 4 weeks.
  • do not fly without seeking advice from your doctor.

How many days rest is needed after cataract surgery?

Plan on taking one to three days off of work to be sure you have enough time to rest, but it is normal to resume most normal activities within a couple of days.

What happens if you accidentally bend over after cataract surgery?

There are several things people should avoid after eye surgery. Avoid bending over for the first 48 hours after the surgery, as this can cause pressure to build up in the eyes and interfere with healing.

What I can and Cannot do after cataract surgery?

Cataract Surgery Recovery: 5 Tips From an Expert
  • Limit Strenuous Activity. ...
  • Shield Yourself from Irritants or Trauma. ...
  • Keep Out of the Pool, and Shower Carefully. ...
  • Avoid Driving. ...
  • Follow Doctor's Orders.

What are the limitations after cataract surgery?

Now, let's take a look at some of the things you shouldn't do after your cataract surgery:
  • Don't rub your eye.
  • Don't get soap or shampoo in your eye.
  • Don't drive until your doctor allows it.
  • Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting.
  • Avoid swimming and hot tubs to prevent infection.

A definitive list of what not to do after cataract surgery.

39 related questions found

How long to wear eye shield at night after cataract surgery?

take it easy for the first 2 to 3 days. use your eye shield at night for at least a week.

How do I know if my lens has moved after cataract surgery?

Patients with a dislocated IOL may experience a decrease or change in vision, diplopia, and/or glare. Additionally, they may report ocular pain or headaches from intermittent angle-closure and/or inflammation. Some patients also report seeing the edge of the IOL.

Can I do dishes after cataract surgery?

Additionally, try not to do any housework or cooking after cataract surgery for the first two weeks. If you cannot avoid this, wear your eye shield to reduce the risk of irritation and infection.

How soon can you sleep on your side after cataract surgery?

People should try to avoid sleeping on the same side of the operated eye for 1 week.

What is avoided in a post cataract patient?

Do not do any rigorous exercise and/or heavy lifting. Avoid driving until your eye doctor examines and say it is safe to resume driving. Follow your ophthalmologist's orders related to administration of any antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops or medications. Try to stay away from dirt and dusty areas.

How long should you avoid bending after cataract surgery?

How long after cataract surgery can you bend over? While it may seem an odd question, bending over or leaning forward for any length of time can put pressure on your eye. This can affect the healing process. Try to avoid bending over for the first two weeks after surgery.

Can I bend over to brush my teeth after cataract surgery?

Try not to be bend over for at least 2 weeks following cataract surgery. Whilst there are some tasks that require bending, such as putting on shoes or pants, try to avoid bending your back. In addition, try not to sneeze or vomit following cataract surgery, and avoid excessive coughing.

How long should you avoid bending over after cataract surgery?

It is generally recommended to avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects for the first 24 hours to a week (prolonged bending) after cataract surgery to reduce the risk of complications. Your surgeon will advise you about what activities you will be able to do.

Is it OK to watch TV after cataract surgery?

You can read or watch TV right away, but things may look blurry. Most people are able to return to work or their normal routine in 1 to 3 days. After your eye heals, you may still need to wear glasses, especially for reading.

Can I go for a walk the day after cataract surgery?

Most people can do very light exercise the day after surgery, including walking. For activities like biking, running, tennis, golf and sex, wait one week after your procedure. If you are a swimmer, doctors advise you to wait two weeks before going in the water to minimize your risk of infection and irritation.

Can I drive 2 days after cataract surgery?

For driving, the minimal amount of time before you should be OK to drive is 24 hours after the fact, though you are strongly advised to wait for confirmation from your doctor based on your follow-up examination. Everyone reacts differently to cataract surgery, so some people might recover more quickly than others.

Does night vision get worse after cataract surgery?

Yes, cataract surgery improves your night vision to a larger extent. Night vision improvement will enable you to drive, walk in low lights too. As the cataract advances the vision loss worsens, surgery might help restore your vision back.

What is the best position after cataract surgery?

Sleeping on your back for a few nights after the cataract eye procedure will help prevent you from rubbing and putting pressure on your eyes. If your eye doctor recommends or provides you with a protective shield to wear while sleeping post-surgery, use it.

When can I shower after cataract surgery?

You can take a shower or bath 24 hours after your surgery. Do not get water or soap in your eye. Keep your eye closed while you shower. Use a clean washcloth every time and normal tap water to clean secretions from your lashes or the corner of your eye.

How many pounds can I lift after cataract surgery?

Avoid bending over or lifting anything that weighs more than 10 to 15 pounds, including groceries and laundry. Your eyes may become more stressed as a result, which might prevent appropriate recovery.

Do I need to wear sunglasses indoors after cataract surgery?

Wear sunglasses outdoors for one week after surgery. It is optional to wear them indoors.

Why can't you eat before cataract surgery?

While under sedation, there is a chance of stomach acid going into your lungs, which can cause damage. You will need to fast for about 12 hours before surgery to ensure you are safe from this effect. You should also check with your primary care doctor about any medications you are on that could cause bleeding.

Do people's eyes look different after cataract surgery?

For the first few days after your surgery, it's normal to have blurred or double vision and watery/gritty eyes. Your eyes may also look red or bloodshot. These side effects will normally subside within a few days, but it can take four-six weeks for your eye to fully heal.

Does your eyesight stay the same after cataract surgery?

No, your vision generally doesn't deteriorate after cataract surgery unless other problems arise, such as macular degeneration or glaucoma. In cataract surgery, the eye doctor (ophthalmologist) removes the clouded lens from your eye and replaces it with a clear, artificial lens.

What does an eye look like immediately after cataract surgery?

Your eye may look pinkish after cataract surgery and there may even be some bright red localised bruising. This is more likely if you are taking asprin or warfarin. This is normal. Your eye may feel a little bit achy for a few days.