Eye Care After Surgery: Important Guidelines
Essential eye care after surgery — Phaco, LASIK, and ReLEx SMILE. Learn recovery tips, follow-up schedules, and how to protect your vision
Table of Contents
Modern eye surgery techniques are increasingly advanced, but without proper care, complications may occur — even affecting long-term vision. This article from Everwell Magazine shares essential tips on caring for your eyes after surgery, including Phaco, LASIK, and ReLEx SMILE procedures.
1. Post-Phaco (Cataract Surgery) Care
After cataract surgery (Phaco), patients are prescribed eye drops for about a month to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Follow the doctor’s instructions carefully:
- Wash hands thoroughly before applying drops. Use only one drop at a time, waiting 5 minutes before applying the next.
- Use saline eye wash and sterile soap for at least one month. Afterward, switch to cooled boiled water and sterile gauze.
- For mild pain, paracetamol may be used. If discomfort persists, consult your doctor.
- During the first week, wear an eye shield while sleeping to prevent accidental rubbing.
- Maintain a normal diet; no food restrictions are required.
- Attend follow-up visits as scheduled: the next day, after one week, and after one month.
2. Post-LASIK Eye Care
LASIK uses excimer laser technology to reshape the cornea, correcting vision issues such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Postoperative care is crucial:
Immediately After Surgery
- Eyes may feel gritty, sensitive to light, or uncomfortable. Rest with eyes closed.
- Avoid rubbing eyes.
- Blink and open eyes gently.
Within the First Week
- Temporary blurry near vision may occur when reading; it improves in a few weeks.
- Avoid strong light exposure (sunlight, bright lamps).
- Limit screen time (TV, computer, phone).
- Use prescribed eye drops correctly — wash hands first, and avoid touching eyelashes with the dropper.
- Wear protective eye shields while sleeping.
- Attend follow-up appointments as directed.
After One Month
- Light activities like walking or yoga are safe. Avoid intense sports for at least three months, unless approved by your doctor.
- Avoid eye makeup in the first month.
- Keep soap and shampoo out of the eyes.
After Six Months
- Keep a safe 50–65 cm distance from computer screens.
- Adjust screen brightness and lighting appropriately.
- Take regular breaks from screen use.
- Use artificial tears to maintain eye moisture.
3. Post-ReLEx SMILE Eye Care
ReLEx SMILE is the most advanced vision correction surgery currently available in Vietnam. Proper postoperative care ensures safety and recovery:
First Days
- Wear protective glasses for 1–3 days.
- Take prescribed medications and eye drops as directed.
- Clean eyes with 0.9% saline solution.
- Mandatory follow-up exam one day after surgery.
After One Week
- Avoid eye makeup.
- Prevent soap, shampoo, or sweat from entering the eyes.
- Limit screen exposure (TV, phone, computer).
After Two Weeks
- Avoid vigorous sports and swimming.
- Follow a regular diet but avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and smoking.
Always attend scheduled follow-up visits to monitor healing. If unusual symptoms occur, consult your doctor immediately.
Quick tip when eyes feel irritated after surgery:
- Apply artificial tears and rest for 15 minutes.
- If discomfort persists, contact your ophthalmologist.
Eye surgery can restore vision and improve quality of life, but only with proper aftercare. Following these guidelines will help protect your eyes, prevent complications, and ensure long-lasting results.