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Best Eye Drops After Cataract Surgery

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Eye drops are critical after cataract surgery. Antibiotic drops prevent infection. Steroid drops ease inflammation. And both keep tissues lubricated and hydrated. 

If your eyes still feel sticky and sore despite your drops, talk to your doctor. Don’t buy or use over-the-counter lubricating drops without checking first. Some products have been recalled due to contamination concerns.

What Are the Best Eye Drops to Use After Cataract Surgery?

The best eye drops after cataract surgery are those your doctor prescribes. Typically, your doctor will recommend one drop to prevent infection and another to reduce inflammation. 

Every year, about 1 million cataract surgeries are performed. The procedure is safe, effective, and the only way to address eyes clouded by cataracts. But your aftercare is critical for the best results. 

During cataract surgery, your doctor will make a small incision and remove the clouded lens. An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) replaces it. You’re sent home the same day to heal and rest. Your doctor will provide eye drops and a schedule for their use.

Antibiotic Eye Drops

man using eyedrop

During cataract surgery, your doctor makes a tiny incision in your eye. That cut can allow bacteria to enter your eye.

Infections are serious complications. Thankfully, they’re very rare, occurring in less than 1% of patients. Antibiotic eye drops can help keep you safe.

NVISION doctors use two types of antibiotic medications. One is a combination therapy, and the other is a standalone antibiotic. Your doctor will choose which version is right for you.

Medication Medication TypeAverage Price Side Effects 
Ofloxacin (Floxin and Ocuflox)Antibiotic $12Stinging, blurry vision, watery eyes, light sensitivity
Pred-Moxi (prednisolone acetate and moxifloxacin)Antibiotic/steroid combination $25Blurry vision, dry eyes, broken blood vessels in the eyes, eye tenderness 

Steroid Eye Drops

Your body reacts to injuries with swelling. Puffy tissues immobilize wounds and speed healing. But too much inflammation can harm your recovery and cause more problems. Steroid eye drops ensure your eyes don’t swell too much. 

Steroid eye drops can also reduce pain after surgery. Using them can keep you comfortable as you heal. 

NVISION doctors use two medications in this class. One is a combination product that contains an antibiotic too. The other is a standalone steroid. Your doctor will help you decide which is best for you.

Medication Medication TypeAverage Price Side Effects 
PrednisoloneSteroid$12Itchy eyes, change in vision, difficulty focusing, drooping of the eyelids
Pred-Moxi  (prednisolone acetate and moxifloxacin)Antibiotic/steroid combination $25Blurry vision, dry eyes, broken blood vessels in the eyes, eye tenderness 

How to Apply Eye Drops After Surgery

family with happy kids

Post-cataract surgery care is important. Your doctor will provide detailed instructions to follow after surgery. Ensure you understand those recommendations before you go home so you know what to do. 

To use your eye drops, follow these steps:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly. You will be touching parts of your eyes in the process.
  • Sit down and tilt your head back, or lie down instead.
  • Pull your lower eyelid down gently. 
  • Use your nose or forehead to brace your hand and keep it steady.
  • Squeeze a drop into your eye, taking care not to touch the surface with the bottle’s tip.
  • Close your eyes for a moment. Blink, and then close your eyes again.
  • Blot excess drops with tissues. 
  • Wait a few minutes before applying drops of a second type (if applicable).

Keep track of when you use each drop by writing down the time or marking the dose on your phone. If you’re worried you might forget your doses, set timers with your phone to stay on track. 

Most people use eye drops for several weeks after surgery. Don’t stop using them until your doctor tells you it’s safe to do so.

Should You Use Lubricating Eye Drops After Cataract Surgery?

Photo of an elderly couple, who still enjoy in each other, is on a hiking trip together

Itchiness and dryness are common symptoms after eye surgery. Before you reach for over-the-counter lubricating drops, ask your doctor. 

In early 2023, several eye drop products sold in the United States were recalled due to associated illness. Some people who used these drops developed severe infections that put their vision at risk.

Complications with cataract surgery are very rare. But putting a contaminated product into an eye healing from surgery could lead to serious problems. To stay safe, ask your doctor before putting anything in your eyes.

Eye Drops After Cataract Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need to use eye drops after a cataract surgery?

Yes. Eye drops can help keep you comfortable as tissues heal. Some can reduce the risk of infection too.

What can happen if you don’t use eye drops after cataract surgery?

Your risk of complications, including infections and poor tissue healing, can rise if you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions. This can also be very painful.

Do you start eye drops immediately after cataract surgery?

Yes. Your doctor might apply your first dose before you go home after surgery. But you’ll start using the products when you get home.

How long do you continue eye drops after cataract surgery?

Most people use eye drops for several weeks after cataract surgery. Your doctor will create a plan just for you and your eyes.

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