Post-Operative Eye Care
Patient Resources

Your roadmap to rapid recovery.

Even the most flawless surgery relies on strict post-operative compliance. Follow these clinical guidelines meticulously to protect your healing eye and secure your final visual outcome.

The Universal Golden Rules

Regardless of whether you had Cataract, LASIK, or Glaucoma surgery, these foundational rules apply to absolutely every patient.

Do NOT rub your eye.

The incisions on your eye are microscopic and highly delicate. Rubbing or pressing hard on your eye can disrupt the healing tissue, dislodge a corneal graft, or shift a newly implanted premium lens. You must wear your provided protective plastic shield while sleeping for the first week to prevent accidental rubbing during the night.

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Water Safety

Avoid splashing tap water directly into the eye for at least two weeks. Use sterile wipes provided to clean around the eye. Absolutely no swimming or hot tubs for one month to prevent severe bacterial infections.

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Medication Timing

Instill your prescribed steroid and antibiotic eye drops exactly as scheduled. Do not stop drops early just because your eye "feels fine." If taking multiple drops, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between each medication.

How to properly instill eye drops.

Improper application is the most common cause of post-operative complications. A contaminated bottle tip can cause a sight-threatening infection.

  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before ever touching the bottle or your face.
  • Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small "pocket."
  • Never let the bottle tip touch your eye or your eyelashes. Hold it an inch above the eye.
  • Squeeze one single drop into the pocket. Close your eye gently (do not squeeze it shut tight) for 1 minute to allow the medication to absorb.

Procedure-Specific Instructions

Vitreoretinal Surgery

  • If a gas bubble was used, you MUST maintain the strict "Face-Down" or prescribed head positioning 24/7 until cleared by the doctor.
  • Absolutely no flying in airplanes or traveling to high altitudes until the gas bubble dissolves.
  • Expect vision to be very blurry initially as you look through the gas/oil.

LASIK / SMILE / Contoura

  • Keep your eyes closed as much as possible for the first 4-6 hours to accelerate epithelial healing.
  • Avoid heavy screen time (phones, laptops) for 24-48 hours.
  • Wear 100% UV protective sunglasses whenever outdoors for the first month.

Cataract Extraction

  • Avoid heavy lifting (over 10 lbs) or strenuous exercise that increases chest pressure for 1-2 weeks.
  • Avoid bending over at the waist so your head falls below your heart.
  • Mild grittiness or a "sand in the eye" feeling is normal as the microscopic incision heals.

Recovery FAQ

Answers to the most common questions our patients have upon returning home.

When can I wash my face or take a shower?

You can take a below-the-neck shower the day after surgery. However, you must avoid splashing water directly on your face or eyes for at least 7 to 10 days. Use a clean, damp washcloth to wipe your face gently, avoiding the immediate eye area.

Is it normal for my vision to be blurry immediately after surgery?

Yes, mild to moderate blurriness is completely normal for the first 24 to 48 hours as the eye adjusts, inflammation subsides, and the dilated pupil returns to normal. Note: Retinal surgeries utilizing gas bubbles will cause blurriness for several weeks.

When can I resume watching TV, reading, or using my phone?

You can usually resume light screen time and reading within 24 to 48 hours after procedures like Cataract or LASIK surgery. However, remember to blink frequently and use your prescribed lubricating drops, as screens naturally reduce blink rates and can cause severe dry eyes.

Can I sleep on my side?

For the first week, it is highly recommended to sleep on your back or on your non-operated side. Regardless of your sleep position, you must always wear the hard protective plastic eye shield taped over your eye while sleeping to prevent accidental rubbing or pressure against the pillow.

When can I start driving again?

Do not drive until you are explicitly cleared by your surgeon during your first follow-up appointment (usually within 1 to 3 days). Your vision must meet legal driving standards, and your depth perception needs time to fully stabilize.

Red Flag Symptoms

Mild scratchiness, tearing, and light sensitivity are completely normal as your eye heals. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, do not wait for your next scheduled appointment. Contact the hospital immediately.

Sudden, severe loss of vision
Deep, throbbing, unmanageable pain
A sudden "curtain" or shadow over your vision
A massive increase in flashes of light
Excessive yellowish or green discharge

24/7 Clinical Emergency Line

+91 86909 99449