Cataract removal is among the safest and most performed of all surgical procedures. More than 3 million Americans have cataract surgery each year, with most experiencing fast healing and dramatically improved vision.
That being said, every cataract patient needs a little help during the first day or two after surgery. Here are some steps that you can take to care for your loved one and ensure that their recovery is as fast and easy as possible.
Before the Surgery
Your family member’s doctor will prescribe antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drops, and a mild pain reliever like acetaminophen. Pick these up from the pharmacy ahead of time. Make sure you understand dosages and other instructions in case your loved one needs help.
Help your relative prepare their home to make it a comfortable place in which to recuperate. Objects (like medications, toiletries, remote controls, phones and phone numbers) should be easy to find and use. Stock up on supplies. Make sure that any bright lights can be dimmed. If anything heavy needs to be lifted or moved, do it now before the surgery is performed.
After the Surgery
The first thing your family member will need is a ride home. Cataract surgery is usually done without a general anesthetic, but the patient will be groggy from the sedation and unable to drive safely. Make sure they don’t need to lift anything heavy. Your loved one won’t be able to do anything strenuous for at least a couple of weeks. Arrange for someone else (or a team of volunteers) to be available for chores around the house and yard.
Offer to help apply eye drops. Your loved one will need anti-inflammatory eye drops several times a day for up to a month. Be available to be “the second set of eyes” around the house. (This is especially helpful if your family member has limited vision in their “good” eye.) Visit and spend time with them. Recuperation is a lot more pleasant with good company.
Help your relative remember the guidelines for good postoperative self-care:
- No strenuous activity for 2-4 weeks.
- No bending over for the first couple of days (to avoid putting pressure on the healing eye.)
- Don’t use makeup or face creams until your doctor tells you it’s safe.
- Clean your eye gently twice a day following the steps your doctor gives you.
- Be careful not to bump into doors or other objects as you move around.
- To reduce the risk of infection, avoid swimming and hot tubs during the first week.
- Protect your eye from irritants like dust, wind, sand, and allergens for several weeks after surgery. (Remember your protective eyewear whenever you’re outside. Wear your eye-shield for sleeping.)
- Avoid rubbing the healing eye.
Offer to come along for their first checkup the day after the surgery. Help your relative remember to ask the doctor any questions they may have in mind. If you have more questions about how to take care of a relative after cataract surgery, contact Ellis Eye!
