Cataract is a vision problem that occurs with the clouding of the lens. The most common symptom is blurry or foggy vision. The disease progresses gradually and the only treatment is cataract surgery. The procedure involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial lens and is one of the safest and most effective ophthalmic interventions.
Eye drops are essential in the recovery process. Find out:
- Which eye drops should be used after cataract surgery
- How many days should eye drops be used after cataract surgery
- How are eye drops administered
Which eye drops should be used after cataract surgery?
Typically, the eye drops administered after cataract surgery consist of an antibiotic and a steroid anti-inflammatory. However, depending on the patient’s needs, the ophthalmologist may prescribe eye drops for multiple purposes:
- Antibiotic-based eye drops to prevent eye infections.
- Eye drops containing a steroid anti-inflammatory to reduce postoperative inflammation.
- Moisturizing eye drops to prevent dry and irritated eyes after surgery.
- Eye drops designed to relax the eye, reduce discomfort, and promote rapid healing of the eye and its tissues.
How many days should eye drops be used after cataract surgery?
The doctor determines the type of necessary drops and the appropriate time to start the treatment. This usually happens on the day of the surgery or the following day. The duration of using the eye drops also depends on the doctor’s recommendation. In general, they are applied for several weeks or until complete healing.
At Dr. Holhoș clinics, specialists recommend local treatment with eye drops for 45 days after cataract surgery. It is recommended to apply them at intervals of 5-10 minutes, one after another, to ensure effectiveness. They are only applied during the day, at regular intervals.
How are eye drops administered after cataract surgery?
Your vision may be blurry for up to 6 weeks after the surgery.
The prescribed treatment should be followed at home for 45 days. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before applying the eye drops. Avoid touching the tip of the bottle with your eyes or any other surfaces to prevent contamination. Tilt your head back slightly and, gently pulling down the lower eyelid, instill the solution into the conjunctival sac. Close your eyes and gently press the inner corner of the eye with your finger to help distribute the drops evenly.
The operated eye should be washed daily with boiled and cooled water or with saline solution, using makeup remover pads.
Complete healing of the eye can take at least 8 weeks. At 45 days after the surgery, you will be scheduled for an ophthalmological check-up, and if necessary, you will be prescribed glasses for distance vision or for reading.
If you notice any irregularities following cataract surgery, contact your ophthalmologist.
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