4 Things To Expect After Laser Cataract Surgery

If your eye doctor has suggested laser cataract surgery, they may have also told you that it's a procedure that doesn't require you to take time off work to recover from. This confuses many patients because you aren't quite sure what to expect. Although it will take some time to adjust to your eyesight, you should also take some precautions, even if you are returning to work the next day. Here are four things to expect: 

1. Avoid Water: After having laser cataract surgery, you definitely should not be swimming. This will only irritate your eyes. Plus, there is bacteria in the water that can infect your eyes, which are going to be sensitive after surgery. On top of this, you need to be cautious when showering for the same reason. Tap water also contains bacteria that can infect the eyes. It's best not to run water over your face when showering. You also shouldn't be washing your hair for at least a few days. Water will easily fall into your eyes when doing this, even if you attempt to keep it away. 
2. Don't Go to the Gym: Even though your doctor likely said you are able to return to life as normal after surgery, if you are an avid gym goer, you need to avoid this for a few days. This is because you are going to have stitches after having laser cataract surgery done. If you over-exert yourself, the stitches can tear, which can cause complications. On top of this, many people often rub their eyes when they sweat while working out. You definitely want to avoid this.
3. Avoid Housework: If you absolutely need your house cleaned, clean it before the surgery or hire maids to do it for you. You shouldn't do any housework after having the surgery done. All the dust and debris that flies around in the air while cleaning can irritate your sensitive eyes during this time. It's definitely best to avoid this and not do any heavy cleaning, such as dusting, vacuuming, mowing the lawn, and more. 
4. Don't Itch Your Eyes: It's common for your eyes to feel itchy after the surgery and dry. Do not rub at them or itch them during this time. Your eye doctor will likely prescribe you special eye drops that you will use instead whenever your eyes start to feel uncomfortable. If the pain becomes unbearable, be sure to see your eye doctor right away since it can be a sign of infection. 

When you know these four things to expect, you can be sure that you are thoroughly prepared for life after the surgery is done. For more information and tips, talk with an eye doctor, such as those at Country Hills Eye Center, directly.