Dos and Don'ts after cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is a quick and highly successful procedure, but the way you look after your eye afterwards is just as important as the surgery itself. Most complications are preventable, and the right habits in the first few weeks can make the difference between a good result and an excellent one. Here are the dos and don'ts I recommend to every patient after cataract surgery.

Do use your eye drops exactly as prescribed

Your drops are there to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Missing doses, stopping early, or using them incorrectly can lead to inflammation, infection or a slower recovery. If you are unsure about the schedule, ask the team to write it down clearly. Wash your hands before using drops, and do not let the bottle tip touch the eye or eyelid.

Do wear your eye shield at night

You will be given a clear plastic shield to wear over the operated eye while sleeping, usually for the first few nights. The shield protects the eye from accidental rubbing or pressure during sleep. Keep it on until your surgeon tells you it is no longer needed.

Do keep your follow-up appointments

Post-operative checks are not optional. The first appointment, usually the day after surgery, confirms that the eye is settling well and the pressure is normal. Later appointments check the healing and the final prescription. If you cannot attend, rearrange rather than skip it.

Do protect your eye from dust and wind

Sunglasses help with light sensitivity and also reduce the chance of dust or wind irritating the healing eye. This is especially useful on bright days, windy days or in dusty environments.

Do ask questions

No question is too small. If your vision feels different, your eye becomes uncomfortable, or you are unsure whether a symptom is normal, contact the clinic. It is always better to ask early than to wait and worry.

Don't rub your eye

Rubbing is the most important thing to avoid. The wound at the front of the eye is tiny, but it needs time to seal. Rubbing can open the wound, introduce infection, or displace the lens. If the eye feels itchy or gritty, use your prescribed lubricating drops instead.

Don't get water in your eye

For the first week or two, avoid getting tap water, shower spray, soap, shampoo or swimming pool water into the eye. Water is not sterile and can introduce bacteria while the surface is healing. You can shower normally, but keep your face away from direct spray and gently pat the area dry.

Don't wear eye make-up

Avoid eye make-up for at least one week after surgery, and preferably two. Mascara, eyeliner and eyeshadow can harbour bacteria and small particles that irritate the healing surface. If you want to wear face make-up, keep it away from the eye area.

Don't lift heavy objects or strain

Heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, bending double and straining can raise pressure in the eye and stress the healing wound. For the first week, avoid lifting anything heavier than a kettle, and avoid vigorous gym work, gardening, or household tasks that require heavy lifting or bending.

Don't swim or use hot tubs

Swimming pools, hot tubs and saunas should be avoided for at least two weeks, and sometimes longer. The water is not sterile and can introduce infection. Saunas and very hot environments can also increase eye inflammation.

Driving and returning to work

Most people can resume light activities and desk work within a day or two, provided the vision meets the legal standard and you feel comfortable. Do not drive until your surgeon confirms your vision is good enough, and only drive when you feel safe. Your insurance may not be valid if you drive against medical advice.

When to seek urgent help

Contact the clinic urgently or go to an emergency eye department if you have:

- Severe pain not relieved by simple pain relief

- A sudden drop in vision

- Increasing redness or discharge

- Flashes of light, new floaters or a curtain over vision

- Nausea, headache or vomiting with eye pain

Next steps

If you have recently had cataract surgery, follow the written instructions from your surgical team and attend every review. If you are planning cataract surgery, use this list to prepare your home and schedule so the recovery period is as smooth as possible. Most patients recover quickly and enjoy a dramatic improvement in their vision.