At avalonweb.com.au, all members of the Equal-Eyes team have undergone strabismus surgery as part of their initial treatment journey to correct strabismus and lazy eye. We know firsthand that ensuring a smooth recovery is crucial for achieving the best possible aesthetics outcomes. Therefore, we've prepared a comprehensive guide on what not to do after strabismus surgery, along with other considerations to enhance your post-surgery recovery.
Strabismus surgery, commonly referred to as squint surgery, is a common procedure to correct the alignment of the eyes. Its primary purpose is to improve the aesthetic appearance of the patient with strabismus.
Activities to Avoid After Eye Muscle Surgery
In the following lines, we will compile common activities to avoid, using exaggerated reference images to make our point clear.
1. Strenuous Activities
- Why: Engaging in activities like swimming, contact sports, or heavy lifting can strain your eyes and lead to complications.
- Duration: Refrain from strenuous activities for one to four weeks, or as advised by your healthcare provider.
2. Dusty Environments
- Why: Dust can irritate your eyes and increase the risk of infection.
- Duration: Avoid dusty areas for at least two weeks.
3. Getting Water in Your Eyes
- Why: Water can introduce bacteria, leading to infections.
- Precaution: Be cautious while washing your hair or face to avoid getting water in your eyes.
4. Driving
- Why: Your vision might be blurred, and your reaction times could be affected post-surgery.
- Advice: Do not drive until your healthcare provider clears you.
5. Alcohol Consumption
- Why: Alcohol can increase swelling, bruising, and thin your blood, leading to negative effects.
- Advice: Avoid drinking alcohol during your recovery period.
6. Rubbing Your Eyes
- Why: Rubbing your eyes can cause infections or dislodge stitches prematurely.
- Advice: Keep your hands away from your eyes, especially in the early stages of recovery.
7. Using Unprescribed Eye Drops or Ointments
- Why: Only use medications prescribed by your doctor to avoid adverse effects.
- Advice: Follow your doctor's instructions on eye care meticulously.
8. Vigorous Physical Activities
- Why: Simple vigorous physical Activities such as e.g. stretching can increase eye pressure and lead to complications.
- Duration: Avoid vigorous activities for at least two weeks or until your doctor advises otherwise.
Additional Recovery Considerations
- Rest Well: Adequate rest is crucial for healing. Take it easy for a few days to weeks post-surgery.
- Manage Discomfort: Mild pain can be relieved with medications like Tylenol. Follow your doctor's guidelines for pain management.
- Dietary Adjustments: If you had general anesthesia, your stomach might feel queasy. Start with a fluid diet and gradually return to regular foods.
- Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to your orthoptist's instructions on wearing glasses, doing close work, watching TV, using computers, and performing eye exercises.
For more detailed information on recovery tips, check out our post on Things to Do to Improve Recovery After Strabismus Surgery.
After your successful surgery recovery, consider recovering Binocular Vision
Alternative Non-Surgical Treatments and New Strabismus Therapies
At AvalonWeb.com.au, we offer Equal-Eyes, an innovative VR vision therapy program designed for adults with binocular vision dysfunctions and lazy eye. This program uses virtual reality technology to provide engaging and effective vision therapy exercises that can be done at home. Equal-Eyes offers a promising approach to improving visual alignment and binocular vision, even in adults.
Conclusion
In conclusion, by following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth and effective recovery after your strabismus surgery. Remember to always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and follow their instructions closely. At AvalonWeb.com.au, we are committed to supporting you on your journey to improved vision and aesthetics. Explore our innovative VR vision therapy program, Equal-Eyes, for continued progress in visual alignment and binocular vision, even in adults. Your road to recovery and better vision goes beyond strabismus surgery.
FAQs
In short, you should avoid any vigorous activity, and touching your eyes, as well as stick to your Doctor post-surgery instructions in terms of diet and prescribed medicines.
It's generally advised to avoid looking at screens for the first day after surgery due to discomfort and potential eye strain. However, you can gradually start using your phone for short periods (5-10 minutes at a time) from days 1-3, and increase the duration as you feel comfortable1. It's important to listen to your body and not overdo it. Remember to always to keep communicating with your Doctor about the things you're doing.
According to Cleveland Clinic, factors that can worsen strabismus include uncorrected farsightedness, certain neurological conditions (like cerebral palsy or hydrocephalus), and physical trauma. Additionally, prolonged screen time and eye strain can contribute to the condition3.ome factors that can worsen strabismus include uncorrected farsightedness, certain neurological conditions (like cerebral palsy or hydrocephalus), and physical trauma. Additionally, prolonged screen time and eye strain can contribute to the condition.
According to an official strabismus surgery patient's guide from the McMaster Children's Hospital, you can watch TV after strabismus surgery, but it's recommended to start with short periods and gradually increase the duration as your eyes heal. It's important to avoid straining your eyes and to take breaks as needed.