THE IMPORTANCE OF POST-OPERATIVE MEDICATION

All eye surgery no matter how minor or invasive, increases the risk of infection in the eye and can also cause swelling or inflammation at and around the site of the surgery. This is unrelated to the surgeon’s precision. All eye surgeries involve an incision or puncture entry point through which to operate and it is this entry point where a potential infection may occur. Eye drops are therefore prescribed by the operating surgeon to help reduce the risk of infection and inflammation of the eye.

These usually include:

• An antibiotic drop to fight the risk of infection.
• A drop to limit the degree of inflammation or swelling around the site of surgery.
• A drop to reduce the risk of elevated eye pressures post-operation may or may not be given. You may also be prescribed oral medications to reduce the eye pressure if needed.
• Lubricating eye drops to keep the eye comfortable post-surgery. Preservative-free versions of lubricating drops may cause less irritation.

Immediately after surgery is an important time for recovery. Following your surgeon’s instructions and post-op treatment regime is vital to ensure a successful recovery.¹⁹