How to Clean Your Eye After Surgery (At Home)

Supplies Needed

1. Sterile saline solution (for eye cleansing)
2. Sterile cotton balls
3. Plastic eye shield
4. Thin medical tape
5. Eye drops/ointment (as prescribed)

Step-by-Step Eye Cleaning Instructions

1. Prepare all supplies and place them within easy reach on a clean surface.
2. Remove the eye shield. Wash with soap, then rinse with clean water. Dry with a clean cloth.
3. Wash hands thoroughly before starting the eye cleaning process.
4. Open the sterile saline bottle and pour a small amount onto the cotton ball. Keep the bottle tip slightly away from the cotton pad, then squeeze out to remove excess solution until damp.
5. Wipe the eye in the following order (use a new cotton ball for each step):
   • Step 1: With the eye closed, gently wipe eyelid from inner corner of the eye towards outer corner.
   • Step 2: Look downward, gently wipe the upper eyelid from nose side outward.
   • Step 3: Wipe the skin above the upper eyelid, from the nose side outward.
   • Step 4: Look upward, gently wipe the lower eyelid from nose side outward.
   • Step 5: Wipe the skin under the lower eyelid, from the nose side outward.
   • Step 6: Gently wipe from the inner brow down the side of the nose to remove any tear stains or discharge.

Notes

1. Use a new cotton ball for each step. Never reuse.
2. Be gentle. Avoid rubbing or applying pressure directly on the eye.
3. Reapply the eye shield after cleaning.

How to Clean Your Eye After Surgery (At Home)