Postoperative Eye Care Tips | SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi

Dr Ss on
Postoperative Eye Care Tips | SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi

By Dr. Deborah Oparaji (OD)

Successful eye surgery depends as much on meticulous postoperative care as on the skill of the surgeon. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi, we stress that following recovery protocols is essential to prevent complications and achieve the best visual outcomes.

Why Aftercare Matters

After eye surgery, your eye is vulnerable to infection, inflammation, elevated pressure, trauma, and poor healing. Proper care reduces these risks and supports stable recovery.

Immediate Postoperative Expectations

Common Symptoms

  • Blurred or fluctuating vision

  • Mild discomfort or grittiness

  • Light sensitivity and tearing

Essential Care Steps

Medication Compliance

  • Use prescribed eye drops as directed. Missing doses or incorrect technique is a leading cause of complications.

  • Types include antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and lubricating drops.

  • Proper technique: Wash hands, gently pull down the lower lid, instil one drop, close eye gently, and apply light pressure to the inner corner for 1–2 minutes.

Physical Protection

  • Wear a protective eye shield while sleeping for 1–2 weeks to prevent rubbing.

  • Use sunglasses outdoors to reduce irritation and light sensitivity.

Activity & Environmental Restrictions

Activities to Avoid

  • Heavy lifting, strenuous exercise (risk of elevated eye pressure and wound issues).

  • Bending over repeatedly.

  • Rubbing or pressing the eye.

  • Swimming, hot tubs, or steam rooms (risk of infection).

  • Eye makeup or artificial lashes (bacteria risk).

  • Exposure to smoke, dust, harsh chemicals, or strong perfumes.

  • Driving until cleared by your eye doctor.

Rest and Recovery

  • Rest for the first 2–3 days.

  • Limit close work and screen time; take frequent breaks.

The Importance of Follow-Up Appointments

Follow-up visits are crucial for:

  • Monitoring intraocular pressure (IOP).

  • Checking wound healing and stability.

  • Assessing inflammation and adjusting medication.

  • Confirming visual stability and finalizing prescriptions.

Warning Signs: When to Seek Urgent Care

Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi immediately if you experience:

  • Severe, worsening pain

  • Sudden vision loss

  • Increasing redness

  • Thick yellow or green discharge

  • New floaters or light flashes

  • Persistent nausea or vomiting

Conclusion: Partnering for Recovery

The success of your eye surgery is a partnership between you and the SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi team. By strictly following postoperative instructions, you protect your vision and ensure the best possible outcome.

📍Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi

Ikoyi plaza, Keffi Street, Ikoyi, Lagos.
📞 0701 820 7486

📍Learn More

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References

  1. Fiscella, R. G., et al. (2020). Improving adherence to topical ophthalmic medications.

  2. Chang, D. F., et al. (2007). Postoperative use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in cataract surgery.

  3. Kiser, D. (2018). The importance of post-operative follow-up care in cataract surgery.