Post-Operation Advice

Complete healing of your eye may take several months, during this period observe these precautions until advised by your doctor.

• Avoid rubbing or pressing on the eye.
  
• Moderate physical activity is allowed, do not lift heavy weights. Avoid straining and take care not to become constipated.
  
• Use only the prescribed eye drops as directed. You will be instructed as to what drops and when they are to be administered. It is preferable that someone else could instill these drops for you. Nursing staff will demonstrate to your relative how best to administer drops to the operated eye. Continue using these drops until told to stop.
  
• Dark glasses may be worn during the day if necessary for comfort.
• The eye shield provided should be worn at night for the first two weeks.
  
• Reading and watching television is allowed. You may wear your glasses if they help.
• Driving may be resumed when you feel confident your vision is adequate for it. If in any doubt please check with your doctor.
  
• You may bathe or shower and wash your hair. Do not splash water in your face or rub briskly with a towel. Sponge your face gently and dry it and your hair gently. Avoid getting water in your eye for two weeks. You may also go to the hairdresser who should be aware that eye has been operated on and take extra care.
  
• Some minor discomfort is normal and may be relieved by taking two panadol or panadeine tablets.
• Contact your doctor if there is any increase of pain or discomfort, or your eye becomes excessively red. If unable to contact your doctor ring Dalcross Hospital on 9932 6600 (24 hours). There should also not be any sudden change for the worse in the vision of your eye.
• Check with your doctor when you can return to work.
• Your glasses will require changing after your operation, however you may continue to use your old glasses until then. No harm will be done.