Six Things to Avoid After Refractive Cataract Surgery
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Since cataracts affect thousands of people each year, it is common to have them removed. In fact, cataract surgery is one of the safest procedures in the U.S. However, it is still important to take your recovery seriously. At Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center, we hope to prepare you with a list of the best dos and don'ts after cataract surgery.
Learn more about your vision correction options by scheduling a cataracts evaluation near Birmingham, AL. You are in good hands with board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Young H. Choi.
Dos and don'ts after cataract surgery
When getting home from refractive cataract surgery, patients should spend the rest of the day sleeping. This will prevent you from unnecessarily rubbing or scratching your eyes. Avoid the following activities below and be sure to take all medications as prescribed, including antibiotics and lubricating eye drops.
1. Dusty environments
Dust aggravates your eyes and makes you want to rub them. After cataract treatment, avoid outdoor areas with a lot of dust. You may also want to put off cleaning your house for a few days, especially in places where dust tends to accumulate. If you cannot avoid dusty environments, try wearing protective goggles that shield your eyes.
2. Swimming
Pools and hot tubs are usually treated with harsh chemicals like chlorine. These chemicals can irritate or burn your eyes if you decide to go swimming too soon. They can even cause an infection that makes your cataract surgery recovery time even longer. To be safe, Dr. Choi recommends avoiding going swimming for at least a few weeks.
3. Strenuous activities
You might be excited about working out and playing your favorite sports after refractive cataract surgery. However, patients should give their eyes enough time to heal before participating in these activities. Not only can sweating lead to eye irritation, but you also risk physical trauma to the eyes.
4. Applying eye makeup
Eye makeup sometimes contains bacteria, which can lead to eye infections. Instead, it is best to go all-natural with your makeup until your eyes have a chance to heal. After cataract surgery recovery, remember to clean your makeup tools frequently. This can prevent future eye irritation and sensitivity!
5. Ultraviolet rays
It is always a good idea to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. It is even more crucial after cataract treatment and vision correction. This is because surgery can make your eyes sensitive and vulnerable to damage. When going outside, remember to wear a good pair of sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection.
6. Driving
Patients should not drive for at least 24 hours following cataract treatment. Depending on your condition and side effects, you may even want to wait even longer. When you visit Dr. Choi for a follow-up appointment near Birmingham, AL we can let you know when it is safe to drive again.
Learn more about cataract surgery recovery
When choosing a healthcare provider, you want someone who is experienced and passionate about what they do. At Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center, we work hard to teach you the dos and don'ts after cataract surgery to ensure your success. To learn about your vision correction options near Birmingham, AL, contact Dr. Young H. Choi for a consultation.