Recovery Tips After Cornea Surgery
Recovery is a critical phase for optimal visual outcomes and long-term graft success after any corneal transplant, whether it is penetrating keratoplasty (PK), Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK), or deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK). The healing process involves donor tissue integration, surgical wound repair, and gradual visual rehabilitation.
At Eye & Cornea Surgeons, we provide personalised aftercare and follow-up support tailored to each patient's condition and procedure, ensuring the best possible recovery.
Cornea Surgery Recovery Tips and Aftercare
To promote graft survival and minimise complications like rejection or infection, patients must follow a strict post-transplant care regimen. This includes medication compliance, scheduled follow-up visits, and adherence to activity restrictions.
1. Adhere to Medication Regimen
After surgery, patients are prescribed a strict course of topical steroid and antibiotic eye drops. These medications are crucial for minimising inflammation and preventing infection. Dosages will be gradually reduced under clinical supervision, as non-compliance significantly increases the risk of graft rejection.
2. Use an Eye Shield After Surgery
Patients are advised to wear an eye shield after surgery, particularly during sleep, for the first few weeks. This prevents accidental rubbing or pressure on the eye, especially for patients recovering from full-thickness transplants.
Your ophthalmologist may also advise you to avoid sleeping on the operated side and consider elevating your head slightly to reduce swelling.
3. Attend All Follow-Up Eye Appointments
Regular follow-up eye appointments are critical to monitor intraocular pressure, graft clarity, and signs of healing. Depending on your case, visits may be weekly initially and then monthly. At Eye & Cornea Surgeons, ophthalmologists' post-op visits are customised to match each patient's recovery timeline and risk profile.
4. Monitor Graft Rejection Symptoms
Monitoring graft rejection is essential throughout the healing phase. Signs may appear suddenly and include:
- Increased redness
- Light sensitivity
- Decreased vision
- Eye pain
Early detection allows for reversal in most cases. Contact your eye care provider immediately if you notice any of these signs.
5. Protect Your Eyes from Strain and Injury
Protecting your healing graft is crucial. Physical exertion, water exposure, and direct trauma can all cause harm. For the first few weeks, avoid strenuous activities, bending forward, or heavy lifting. If you experience light sensitivity, limit screen time. Always wear sunglasses outdoors to protect from UV exposure and reduce glare. Furthermore, patients recovering from corneal surgery should also avoid swimming or contact sports for at least 4–6 weeks.
6. Be Patient with Vision Recovery
The vision recovery timeline varies significantly based on the surgical technique. Patients undergoing endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK/DSAEK) might notice improvements within 4–6 weeks, whereas those recovering from penetrating keratoplasty (PK) may take a year or more to achieve stable vision. Discuss any need for temporary visual aids with your surgeon during follow-up appointments, especially if returning to work or school is a concern.
Get Personalised Recovery Guidance
Each patient's recovery journey after cornea surgery is unique, and timely medical attention is vital for a successful outcome. Seek urgent review if you experience sudden eye pain, vision loss, increasing redness or swelling, or unusual discharge and discomfort. These signs may indicate graft rejection, infection, or other complications requiring prompt intervention.
To ensure optimal healing and long-term graft success, a structured aftercare plan, guided by an experienced corneal specialist, is crucial. At Eye & Cornea Surgeons, our ophthalmologists provide personalised recovery support tailored to your condition and specific surgery. Contact us to schedule a consultation.