What are the postoperative care instructions for cataract and glaucoma surgery?

Generally, postoperative care following cataract and glaucoma surgery usually includes enhanced eye protection, strict intraocular pressure management, adherence to medication guidelines, proper dietary adjustments, and regular follow-up monitoring. Observing these measures can effectively reduce the risk of complications and promote eye recovery. The details are as follows:

1. Enhanced Eye Protection: Avoid any external impact or trauma to the eye during the first month after surgery. When washing your face, gently wipe with a damp towel while avoiding the area around the eyes to prevent contaminated water from entering the eye and causing infection. Do not rub or press on the eye, and avoid strenuous exercise, bending over, or lifting heavy objects, which could lead to dislocation of the intraocular lens or wound dehiscence.

2. Strict Intraocular Pressure Management: Close monitoring of intraocular pressure is essential after surgery. Avoid prolonged head-down positions, breath-holding, or forceful coughing—actions that increase abdominal pressure—as they may cause transient elevation in eye pressure and compromise surgical outcomes. If symptoms such as eye discomfort, headache, or worsening blurred vision occur, promptly inform medical staff.

3. Adherence to Medication Guidelines: Use prescribed medications such as antibiotic and corticosteroid eye drops exactly as directed by your doctor, both in dosage and timing, to control inflammation and prevent infection. Wash hands thoroughly before administering eye drops, and ensure the bottle tip does not touch the eye or eyelashes to avoid contaminating the solution.

4. Proper Dietary Adjustments: Maintain a light and easily digestible diet. Increase intake of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin A and vitamin C—such as carrots, spinach, and oranges—to support corneal and lens healing. Consume adequate dietary fiber to prevent constipation, thereby avoiding excessive straining during bowel movements that could elevate intraocular pressure.

5. Regular Follow-Up Monitoring: It is crucial to attend all scheduled postoperative checkups as instructed. The first follow-up visit typically occurs 1–3 days after surgery, with subsequent appointments determined based on individual recovery progress.

Postoperative care plays a vital role in surgical success and visual recovery. Patients should take these precautions seriously, strictly adhere to all recommendations, maintain healthy lifestyle habits, and create optimal conditions for eye healing.