8 Confirmed Ways to Prepare Your Home for Post-Eye Surgery Recovery

Recovering from eye surgery, whether it’s LASIK, cataract surgery, or glaucoma treatment, requires physical readiness and a comfortable, safe environment at home. Creating a recovery-friendly space can make the process smoother, reduce the risk of complications, and promote faster healing. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through preparing your home for post-eye surgery recovery, ensuring you have everything you need to rest and recuperate effectively.

1. Create a Comfortable Resting Area

After eye surgery, rest is essential for healing, and you’ll need a space to relax without distractions or disturbances.

a. Set Up a Rest Zone

• Choose a quiet room to lie down and avoid bright lights, as your eyes may be more sensitive post-surgery.

• Ensure you have a comfortable bed or recliner to rest during the day, mainly if your doctor advises limiting screen time or activity in the days following surgery.

b. Use Extra Pillows

• It’s often recommended to keep your head elevated during sleep to reduce eye pressure. Use pillows to prop yourself up slightly while sleeping or resting.

c. Minimise Noise and Distractions

• If possible, set up your recovery area in a room away from high-traffic areas in your home. The quieter your surroundings, the easier it will be to relax and recover.

2. Reduce Eye Strain

Protecting your eyes from strain during recovery is crucial. Bright lights, screens, and reading can aggravate healing eyes.

a. Control Lighting

• Keep the lighting soft in your recovery area. If you’re recovering from surgery that leaves your eyes sensitive to light, consider dimmable lights or soft lamps rather than harsh overhead lighting.

b. Avoid Excessive Screen Time

• After surgery, avoid extended screen time (TV, phone, or computer) to reduce eye strain. If you need to look at screens, consider using a blue light filter or wearing sunglasses indoors if your eyes are susceptible to light.

c. Prepare Audiobooks and Podcasts

• Reading can be challenging after eye surgery, especially if you experience blurry vision or light sensitivity. Audiobooks or podcasts can be a great alternative to keep yourself entertained without putting strain on your eyes.

3. Stock Up on Essential Supplies

Everything you need within easy reach will make your recovery smoother and more comfortable. Here are some essentials you should have ready:

a. Prescription Eye Drops and Medication

• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding post-operative eye drops and medications. Have all necessary prescriptions filled before surgery, and set alarms or reminders to use them on schedule.

b. Sunglasses and Eye Shields

• Protecting your eyes from light and accidental rubbing is critical after eye surgery. Sunglasses with UV protection are necessary outdoors, while eye shields or goggles are often recommended while sleeping to prevent unintentional rubbing or pressure on the eyes.

c. Tissues and Cleaning Supplies

• After eye surgery, your eyes may produce more tears or experience mild discharge. Keep soft tissues or sterile wipes nearby to clean your eyes gently, as directed by your doctor.

4. Avoid Household Hazards

Your vision may be blurry, or your eyes may be sensitive to light in the first few days following surgery. It’s important to ensure your home is free of potential hazards to prevent accidents.

a. Clear Pathways

• Remove clutter, rugs, and tripping hazards from the rooms where you’ll recover. Clear pathways to the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom to reduce the risk of falls.

b. Arrange for Assistance

• If possible, arrange for a family member, friend, or caregiver to assist you in the first few days after surgery. Simple tasks like preparing meals, cleaning, or driving may be complex, and having someone to help can make your recovery much easier.

5. Prepare Meals in Advance

Healthy eating is key to recovery, but cooking might not be possible in the days immediately following surgery. Prepare meals in advance to avoid straining your eyes or exerting yourself in the kitchen.

a. Stock Your Kitchen with Easy-to-Prepare Meals

• Before your surgery, make or purchase pre-cooked meals that can be quickly reheated. Choose nutritious options like soups, salads, and pre-chopped fruits and vegetables.

b. Stay Hydrated

• Keep a water bottle near your recovery area to stay hydrated, which is important for healing. Avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages, which can dehydrate you and affect your recovery.

6. Follow Your Post-Surgery Instructions

Your doctor will give you specific instructions for aftercare, including how to use your medications, what activities to avoid, and when to schedule follow-up appointments. It’s essential to follow these guidelines carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.

a. Keep a List of Instructions Nearby

• Write down or print your doctor’s post-surgery instructions and keep them visible near your resting area. It will ensure you can easily refer to them and follow the recommended aftercare steps.

b. Set Alarms for Medication and Eye Drops

• It’s easy to forget medication schedules, especially if you’re feeling tired or dizzy after surgery. Set alarms or phone reminders for when to take medications or apply eye drops to ensure you stay on track.

7. Prepare for Limited Mobility

Depending on the type of eye surgery, you may need to limit physical activity in the days following the procedure.

a. Avoid Heavy Lifting and Bending

• You may be advised to avoid bending over, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in vigorous physical activity for several days to weeks after eye surgery. Plan by placing commonly used items at waist height to reduce the need to bend down.

b. Arrange for Transportation

• You will likely need someone to drive you home after surgery, as your vision may be temporarily impaired. Arrange for transportation in advance for follow-up appointments or any errands.

8. Be Patient with Your Recovery

Every surgery is different, and recovery times can vary. It’s important to be patient and allow your body the time it needs to heal fully. Follow your doctor’s timeline for resuming normal activities and avoid rushing the process.

By preparing your home ahead of time, you can make the recovery process after eye surgery much easier. From creating a comfortable space to ensuring you have the necessary supplies, these small steps can make a big difference in how smoothly your recovery goes.

If you’re preparing for eye surgery and need guidance on how to set up your home or have questions about post-operative care, reach out to us for personalised advice. We’re here to support you through every step of your recovery.