Post Operative Instructions For Cataract Surgery

A cataract is in the lens of your eye.  During surgery, the lens has been removed and replaced with an intraocular implant lens.  A pad is over the eye and should remain in place until removed for you.  You may experience some pain.  Please take Panadol, Panadeine or equivalent.  Please take your other medications as usual.

Please bring your drops with you to your first post operative appointment.  After the eye pad is removed, eye drops are to be placed in the eye four times a day.  The usual drops are 1.  Voltaren, 2.  Chlorsig and 3.  Prednefrin Forte.  Please use them in this order with 5 minutes between each drop.  If you take glaucoma drops, continue with a fresh bottle.

To put in eye drops, wash hands, then, with chin up, look up, pull the lower lid down and allow a drop to fall inside the lower lid.  Close the eye for 30 seconds.  Gently dab away any excess.  If you miss, try again or try lying down.

Please be gentle with your eye.  Do not push on it.  Wear the shield on the operative day and at night for 5-10 nights.  If necessary, clean the eye with cool boiled water.  Keep it dry and closed in the shower for the first few days.  Do not lift heavy things, garden, play sport, or wet your face swimming for 2-4 weeks. 

You will be seen again by the doctor a week later, when the drops are usually gradually reduced over 3 or 4 weeks.  It is 3 or 4 weeks after surgery until the wound is stable enough to prescribe a change in glasses.  In the meantime, you can wear your own glasses if they help you to see.  Please check when it is safe to drive.  It is recommended to wear sunglasses outside, particularly for the first 8 weeks after surgery.

If you have persistent pain or sudden change in your vision, report this to the doctor immediately via the Surgery, the Hospital or the Sydney Eye Hospital.

If you have concerns or questions, please call.