Postoperative Instructions: Collagen Cross-Linking

Post-Procedure Activities and Restrictions:

1. Read, use the computer and watch TV in moderation for the first few days after surgery. Concentrated visual acuity decreases blinking and causes your eyes to become dry and vision to become unstable.
2. Showers and baths are fine, but try to keep your eyes gently closed and avoid getting water and soap directly in your eyes for 5 days. When drying off, do not directly rub or bump your eye. If you have any crustiness on your lashes from the artificial tears, they are best cleaned with careful use of a clean washcloth soaked in warm water.
3. Do not go swimming, use a hot tub, spa or whirlpool for at least 10 days to reduce the risk of infection.
4. Resume driving only when advised by your doctor and when you feel confident and safe.
5. Most people can return to work with light workload after four or five days.
6. Do not use eye makeup, colognes, or aftershave for 5 days. Do not use mascara for 2 weeks. Use care when removing makeup. Avoid rubbing your eyelids aggressively. A magnifying mirror will make it easier to apply your makeup. Using fresh mascara or liquid eyeliner after surgery will reduce the risk of infection from the product being contaminated.
7. Wear sunglasses for comfort as needed. You may be slightly more light sensitive in the first couple weeks after surgery.
8. Avoid dirty, dusty and smoky environments for 1 week. The first reflex might be to rub the eye which we do not want you to do.
9. Remember that you should wear safety glasses if you are doing anything during which you might get hit in the eye, poked in the eye or have anything splash in your eye after surgery. Industrial grade, wrap-around safety glasses may be obtained at any hardware store or home center.
10. Do not rigorously rub your eye for 1 to 2 months after the surgery.
11. Use recommended artificial tears on a regular basis the first month after surgery even if you do not feel as though you need them.
12. Please do not hesitate to call with any questions that you might have about your procedure or post-procedure restrictions.