Important Points To Remember When Recovering From Eye Surgery In Melbourne
A cataract is when the naturally clear lens in our eyes become cloudy and begins to affects our vision. The lens in our eyes is vital for focusing light rays onto the back part of the eye called the retina. This allows us to clearly see images and shapes that are in front of us. Most cataracts occur due to ageing, as the lens in our eyes starts to deteriorate and become increasingly cloudy and dense. However, other life-style and health factors including diabetes, smoking and exposure to UV light can also increase the risk of developing cataract. In fact, among Australians over the age of 55, cataract is the primary cause of vision loss in 40% of cases.
Fortunately, cataract is easily treated with routine day surgery and recovery rates are very good. But like any surgery, how you take care of yourself afterwards plays a big role in how well you recover.
To ensure you have the best outcome after undergoing a cataract operation, here are some important points to remember when recovering from eye surgery in Melbourne.
Going Back to Work
Even though some people can return to work the following day after cataract surgery, you may need to have a week or more of recovery time before you can return to work. This is because it is recommended that you avoid any tasks that may put too much strain on the eyes, such as focusing on a computer screen for a long period of time and reading. If you work outside it is also important to protect your eyes from things like dust, water and UV light for several weeks after surgery. Your surgeon will be able to have this discussion with you in regards to your specific situation.
Driving
Depending on your circumstance, you may be able to drive the day after your eye surgery in Melbourne if you feel confident in your vision. However, you may need to either take a few days off to fully recover or arrange alternative transport until you are confident enough to resume driving. Always discuss any decisions to start driving with your doctor after your surgery.
Contact with Eyes
One of the most important things to remember after having cataract surgery is to not aggravate, rub or touch the eye. It can be very tempting and easy to forget as you may feel a tingling or itchy sensation, but it’s important to not to make contact with the eye as this sensation will eventually disappear. This is because it is possible to undo some of the work from the cataract surgery due to heavy or continuous contact with the eyes.
Showering
It is very important to avoid any water coming into direct contact with the eyes. It is possible to shower after the surgery, but switching to having baths until the eyes have healed is recommended. Because of this, you are also advised against any swimming in the first 2 weeks after surgery.
Medications
Your doctor with prescribe medicated eye drops for you to use during your recovery. It is important to follow the directions given to you and to continue using the drops until your surgeon tells you to stop. Even if your eyes start to feel better immediately, using the prescribed eye drops will reduce the chance of developing an infection or inflammation in the eye.
After Surgery
Even though cataract surgery is a very common and routine procedure, it is crucial to report any problems you are still experiencing to your surgeon, even if you only feel that something may be wrong. This could be in the form of an ache or pain in your eyes or if you think your vision is deteriorating again.
Keep these points in mind after having eye surgery Melbourne and ensure that you are getting the most out of your recovery time. Cataract is very treatable and results are generally permanent but if you are experiencing any symptoms or discomfort in your eyes, book an appointment with one of our eye specialists immediately. Contact Northern Eye Centre on (03) 9459 5133 and book an appointment with an eye specialist in Melbourne today.