Post-Operative Instructions

Immediately After Surgery

Do not place pressure directly on the eye. If the eye is watering, blot gently over the eyelid to absorb fluid.
Do not lift more than 10 lbs for the first week.
Do not bend down for extended periods of time for the first week. Keep your head above your heart.
Wear your eyeglasses or sunglasses for physical protection of the eye. If you cannot see out of the lens it is okay to remove the lens itself.
Take your medication as instructed. If the drop gets in but runs down your cheek do not put another drop in (this will waste medication). If the drops burn or sting it is okay to put in a drop of artificial tears a few minutes before your medication.
Do not get water directly in the eye for the first week. No swimming in hot tubs, pools, or lakes for 4 weeks.
Wear the plastic shield over the operative eye for 3 nights (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday) and whenever you take a nap.
Vision should steadily improve over the next 6 – 8 weeks (about 2 months). We will check your new prescription 3 weeks after your final surgery.
See list below for common symptoms that are normal and abnormal after surgery.

Normal And Abnormal Symptoms Following Cataract Surgery

NORMAL SYMPTOMS

ABNORMAL SYMPTOMS

Blurred Vision intermittently
Watering
Mild irritation; sandy or gritty-feeling
Mild double vision due to anesthesia
Mild lid drooping due to anesthesia
Mild light sensitivity
Tenderness of eyelid from speculum used during surgery
Intermittent mucus production
Dilated pupil following surgery including the morning after surgery

These symptoms are considered normal and will taper off as your eye heals. Make sure to take your post-operative drops as instructed.

Vision that suddenly gets worse
Vision loss
Bleeding that does not stop
Worsening pain
Continued double vision
Flashes of light that are consistent
Many new floaters
Veil or shade that blocks vision
Dilated pupil that does not react to light
Headache on operative side accompanied by nausea and rainbows around lights

If you experience any of these symptoms please call the office at 425-778-2500 . If you are experiencing an after-hours emergency please call the office to be directed to Dr. Swedberg.