Cataract surgery is one of the most performed surgeries in the United States because it is such an easy and effective way to correct vision that has become hazy due to cataracts. Another reason for cataract surgery’s popularity is that the recovery period is relatively manageable for most patients. If you plan to have cataract surgery soon, the eye doctors at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute have some helpful tips to make your recovery as easy as possible.
Rest Your Eyes
You can expect to feel fatigued when you return home from cataract surgery. Prioritizing sleep on the first day is good for your recuperation. Even when awake, it is a good idea to rest your eyes rather than engaging in potentially eye-straining activities like watching television or reading. Entertain yourself by listening to music or a podcast instead.
Do Not Touch or Rub Your Eye
Many people instinctively touch or rub their eyes when they experience discomfort. While it is never a good idea to touch your eye, particularly because it can transfer bacteria into your eye, this is especially true while your eye is actively healing. Putting pressure on your eye will only prolong your recovery, or even increase your risk for a post-surgical complication.
Use the Prescription Eye Drops as Directed
The eye drops your doctor prescribes are formulated to both accelerate the healing process and prevent infection. Pick them up prior to your surgery so that you do not need to worry about making a trip during your recovery. Since remembering to use them many times a day can be hard for some people, consider setting alarms throughout the day to keep you on track.
Limit Your Activity for a Couple Weeks
You may feel and see well enough within a day or two of your surgery to want to resume all normal activity, but keep in mind that your eye is still recovering. Stay out of swimming pools and other bodies of water to avoid infection. Additionally, avoid strenuous activity, especially exercise that requires bending over, since that may increase ocular pressure, until you have been cleared by your doctor.
Choose the Best Doctors for Your Cataract Surgery
At St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute, our doctors care about the wellbeing of our patients, which is why we schedule follow-up appointments to check the progress of your healing. If you are ready to restore clear vision with cataract surgery, choose our ophthalmologists for an optimal surgery and recovery process. For a consultation, please call (727) 585-2200.