Do’s and Don’ts After ICL Surgery

Do’s and Don’ts After ICL Surgery: Complete Recovery Guide

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You’ve just undergone ICL surgery or are preparing for it, and naturally, you want to ensure a smooth recovery. Congratulations on taking this step toward clear and hassle-free vision! But as with any surgical procedure, what you do after can make all the difference to your healing process and long-term results.

This guide will walk you through what to do (and what not to do) after your surgery, timeline expectations, and everything you need to care for your eyes. With simple steps and practical tips, you’ll feel confident navigating your recovery.

1. Immediate Aftercare (First 24–48 Hours)

The first two days after ICL surgery are crucial. Your eyes are healing, and they need extra protection to recover properly.

⇒Do’s

✅ Rest your eyes as much as possible. Avoid unnecessary strain, even if everything seems normal.

✅ Use the prescribed eye drops and medications exactly as directed by your doctor. These help prevent infections and reduce swelling.

✅ Keep your head elevated while sleeping or resting to minimize pressure on your eyes.

✅ Wear protective eyewear, especially at night or whenever you’re at risk of accidentally touching your eyes.

✅ Stay in a clean, dust-free environment to lower the risk of infections.

⇒Don’ts

❌ Don’t rub your eyes, even if they feel itchy or irritated. This can disrupt the healing process.

❌ Avoid washing your face with water initially. Use a damp washcloth to clean around your eyes if necessary.

❌ No heavy lifting or sudden movements. Strain can interfere with recovery.

❌ Avoid bright lights, screens, or places with harsh lighting as they may increase discomfort.

🔹 Pro Tip: If your eyes feel dry or tired, use preservative-free artificial tears (ask your doctor for recommendations). They provide relief without introducing irritation.

2. Detailed Recovery Timeline (Day 1 to Week 6)

Recovery after ICL surgery doesn’t happen all at once. Here’s a week-by-week breakdown of what you can expect and how to make the process as smooth as possible.

⇒First Week

Do: Stick to light activities. Use your protective eye shields at night.
Don’t: Drive during this period. Avoid dusty or windy environments and heavy physical efforts.

⇒Weeks 2–3

Do: Resume mild screen time but take frequent breaks (use the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
Don’t: Go swimming or participate in rigorous exercise. It’s still too soon for activities that can strain the eye.

⇒Week 4 and Beyond

Do: Gradually return to your normal routine, including exercise and screen work, with your doctor’s approval.
Don’t: Ignore strange symptoms like persistent halos, light sensitivity, or pain. If anything doesn’t feel right, consult your doctor immediately.

3. Nutrition for Faster Healing

Believe it or not, what you eat plays a significant role in helping your eyes recover faster and stay healthy.

⇒Best Foods for Eye Recovery

Carrots and sweet potatoes (rich in Vitamin A for eye health).
Leafy greens like spinach and kale (full of antioxidants that reduce inflammation).
Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits (high in Vitamin C for faster tissue repair).
Nuts and seeds like almonds and sunflower seeds (great sources of Vitamin E).

⇒Foods to Avoid

Excess sugar and processed foods (can cause inflammation and slow healing).
Alcohol, as it dehydrates your body and affects eye moisture.

🔹 Quick Tip: For optimal healing, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and maintain healthy tear production.

4. Managing Common Concerns & Emotional Well-being

Recovery isn’t always just physical; it can come with emotional ups and downs, too. Here’s how to handle common concerns.

Blurry vision in the first few days: This is completely normal and usually resolves quickly.
Dry eyes: Use lubricating eye drops and avoid areas with dry air, like air-conditioned rooms.
Mood shifts or anxiety: It’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Try activities like light meditation or listening to music to ease your mind.

🔹 Pro Tip: Focus on the long-term benefits of your surgery when feeling anxious about temporary setbacks.

5. Hygiene & Safe Practices

Keeping your eyes safe and clean is a critical part of healing. But how do you manage day-to-day hygiene?

Washing Your Hair: Lean your head back while washing so no water or shampoo gets into your eyes.
Cleansing Your Face: Use a soft cloth or cotton pads to gently clean the skin around your eyes.
Wearing Sunglasses Outdoors: Protect your eyes from UV damage and environmental irritants like dust or pollen.

6. Screen Time & Digital Devices

With so much screen time in our lives, you’re probably wondering when and how to get back to using devices.

Start Slowly: Avoid screens entirely for the first few days. After that, use them sparingly.
Follow Eye-Friendly Habits: Use blue light filters, take regular breaks, and blink frequently to keep eyes moist.

🔹 Bonus: Practice eye exercises like gentle circular movements or focusing on far and near objects to reduce strain.

7. Post-op Medications & Follow-ups

Post-surgery care includes a strict medication schedule and follow-up visits with your doctor.

Follow the Eye Drop Routine: Skipping doses may lead to infections or delays in healing.
Be Aware of Side Effects: Redness or minor discomfort is common, but report increased sensitivity, excessive tearing, or unusual pain.
Attend All Follow-up Appointments: These visits allow your eye doctor to track healing progress and catch complications early.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I exercise after ICL surgery?

A: Yes, but only light activities like walking during the first few weeks. Avoid strenuous workouts until your doctor gives the green light.

Q: When will my vision stabilize?

A: Most people see significant improvement within a week, but full stability can take around six weeks.

Q: When can I drive?

A: Only after your doctor confirms your vision is clear and safe for driving, generally after the first follow-up visit.

Q: What happens if I experience halos around lights?

A: Halos are normal in the early days but usually diminish over a few weeks. Contact your doctor if they persist.

9. Final Thoughts

Taking the time to care for your eyes after ICL surgery will ensure you achieve the best results. Stick to the do’s and don’ts, eat foods that boost healing, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor if you have concerns.

Your vision is worth it!