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Guidelines following Strabismus Repair

Following Strabismus Repair   Après la correction d’un strabisme

It may take up to 24 hours for you to have fully recovered from the effects of the sedation given to you during the surgery.

Despite the fact that you will be awake prior to discharge your reactions and judgements may be impaired, therefore:

  • A responsible adult must accompany you when leaving the hospital and stay with you for the first night after surgery
  • You are advised not to drive a vehicle, operate machinery or make any important decisions for 24 hours following surgery
  • The use of bus service is also not permitted.

After Surgery

  • You may have a patch over the eye.
  • The white part of the eye may be quite red (blood-tinged). This will last for about 2 – 3 weeks.
  • There will be blood-tinged tearing from the eye. Tears may also drip through the nose for up to 8 hours after surgery. Increased tearing may last for the first 2 or 3 days.
  • The eyelids maybe swollen.
  • Light may bother you causing blinking or squinting.
  • You may have double vision. This is normal and can last for 2 – 3 weeks.
  • You may vomit small amounts and quite often for 24 hours. Do not be alarmed if you see specks of blood in your vomit. This is from the blood-tinged tears dripping into the nose and throat.

The Next Morning

  • If you have an eye patch, remove it the next morning.
  • Remove the crusting or stickiness from around the eye by gently dabbing it with warm water and a clean washcloth.
  • Keep your hands away from the eye. Rubbing can cause an infection or cause the stitches to come out before they should.

Medication

  • Use drops or ointments only if ordered by your doctor. Clean the eyes well before giving the drops.
  • Mild pain may be relieved with medication such as Tylenol or extra-strength Tylenol.

Diet

  • If you have had a general anaesthetic your stomach may be queasy for the first few hours after surgery and you may prefer to have a fluid diet.
  • If you vomit take sips of clear fluids often, rather than large amounts all at once.
  • Increase to a regular diet when feeling better.

Activities

  • You may resume your usual activities including bathing.
  • Avoid any vigorous physical activities for 2 weeks
  • Avoid dusty environments.
  • Avoid swimming.

Call the Doctor if

  • You have severe eye pain not relieved by Tylenol.
  • You notice a sudden change in your vision.
  • You notice an increasing redness or swelling of the eye or lining of the eye.

If you are unable to reach the eye doctor, please return to Misericordia Health Centre, which is open 24/7 for emergency eye care. Enter at the 99 Cornish Avenue entrance and present at patient registration. If you live outside Winnipeg, please visit the nearest health centre.

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