How to care for your eyes after a cataract surgery

Proper care after cataract surgery helps your eye heal safely and prevents infection.
Immediate Eye Protection
Wear your shield: Use the protective plastic eye shield while sleeping or napping for the first week to prevent accidental rubbing.
Wear sunglasses: Put on sunglasses outdoors or in bright indoor spaces to block glare, dust, and wind.
Do not rub: Avoid touching, pressing, or rubbing your eye, even if it feels itchy.
Using Eye Drops
Wash hands: Clean your hands with soap and water before and after applying any medication.
Follow instructions: Use the prescribed antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops exactly as your doctor directs.
Apply carefully: Pull down your lower lid, put the drop in, and close your eye gently for one minute without squeezing tight.
Activity Restrictions
Avoid heavy lifting: Do not lift items weighing over 10 pounds for the first week.
Skip strenuous exercise: Avoid running, heavy workouts, and contact sports for a couple of weeks.
Do not bend low: Avoid bending your head below your waist or straining during the first 48 hours.
Hold off on driving: Wait until your eye doctor confirms your vision is clear enough to drive safely.
Hygiene and Grooming
Keep water out: Avoid getting soap, shampoo, or direct tap water in your eye during the first week.
Skip swimming: Stay out of swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas for at least two to four weeks.
Avoid makeup: Do not apply eyeliner, mascara, or face creams near the eye for at least one to two weeks.
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your medical provider immediately if you experience:
Sudden or severe eye pain
Worsening vision or total loss of sight
Increased redness or discharge
Flashes of light or new dark floaters in your vision