If you enjoy wearing makeup and are considering cataract surgery, you’re probably wondering how much time you have to wait after your procedure before you can safely get back to your regular routine. The good news is that you won’t need to wait long, and you’ll likely find applying makeup much easier after restoring your vision with cataract surgery!
Keep reading to learn more about how soon you can wear makeup after cataract surgery.
What are Cataracts?
A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens of your eye. They form when proteins in your lens break down and clump together, creating cloudy patches.
Over time, as cataracts progress and cover more of your lens, you may experience symptoms such as:
- Blurred vision
- Halos and glare
- Trouble seeing at night
- Double vision in one eye
- Sensitivity to light
- Colors appearing yellow or muted
- Needing brighter lighting for up-close activities
What is Cataract Surgery?
When the symptoms of cataracts make it increasingly difficult to cook, read, enjoy your favorite pastimes, drive, see yourself clearly in the mirror, apply makeup, and perform other activities, your ophthalmologist may recommend cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is the only way to permanently eliminate cataracts.
During the quick outpatient procedure, your cataract surgeon will make an incision in the cornea, the transparent layer at the front of your eye. They’ll then remove the cataract-affected lens and replace it with an intraocular lens (IOL), which can restore the sharpness and clarity lost due to cataracts.
The incision created in your cornea heals on its own without needing sutures or stitches. Finally, your cataract surgeon will place a shield over the operated eye to protect it as it heals.
What is Recovery Like After Cataract Surgery?
After cataract surgery, you’ll be taken to the recovery area, where you’ll be monitored for 15 to 30 minutes before heading home. Your cataract surgeon will provide post-operative care instructions, including how long you’ll need to abstain from using makeup.
It’s crucial to follow your eye doctor’s advice for a smooth recovery. While you’ll notice an improvement in your vision within a couple of days, full recovery may take several weeks.
How Soon Can You Wear Makeup Post-Cataract Surgery?
Your eye requires time to heal after cataract surgery, and applying makeup too soon could lead to complications. Although you may be eager to resume your beauty routine, waiting before applying makeup can help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results from your cataract procedure.
Cataract surgeons usually recommend skipping eye makeup for at least a week post-op. This includes eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara.
Likewise, you’ll need to abstain from using skincare products such as cleansers, toners, eye creams, serums, moisturizers, and masks around or near your eyes. For face makeup, such as blush, foundation, contour, or concealer, it’s generally safe to apply a few days post-surgery, typically around 3 to 4 days.
However, you’ll want to avoid applying these products close to the eye area, which will still be sensitive. Eye creams and moisturizers applied around your eyes should be avoided for up to 2 weeks.
The aim is to prevent products from entering your eye and to avoid rubbing your eyes during the healing period. If faux lashes or lash extensions are your go-to, it’s best to wait at least a month after your cataract procedure before using them.
Applying and removing them can exert pressure on your operated eye, increasing the risk of complications.
What are the Risks of Wearing Makeup Too Soon Following Cataract Surgery?
Using makeup right after your cataract procedure may lead to:
Irritation
The first few days after surgery are crucial for healing. During this time, your eyes are especially prone to irritation, including from makeup.
Eye makeup can flake off into your eye and cause irritation, prolonging recovery.
Infection
Until the incision made during cataract surgery fully heals, you run the risk of infection if liquids and small particles from makeup get into your eye. Avoid using makeup and sponges, brushes, and other makeup applicators near your eyes.
They may harbor bacteria that can cause infection and disrupt healing. Eye infections can be serious and even lead to vision loss.
Eye Rubbing
Tiny particles in makeup may enter your eye when applying eye shadow, mascara, or other products and give you the urge to rub your healing eye. Additionally, waterproof or long-lasting products may be hard to remove without rubbing on the eye area.
Eye rubbing could damage healing tissues. It may also potentially displace your new IOL, which might require additional surgery to reposition.
Should You Consult Your Ophthalmologist Before Resuming Your Makeup Routine?
It’s best to consult your ophthalmologist before reintroducing makeup to ensure your eye has healed adequately. While the recommended wait time is 7 days, this timeline may vary from patient to patient, and you may need to wait longer than that.
Your ophthalmologist can give you advice tailored to your specific case. Following their suggestions can substantially lower your risk of complications, protect your vision, and promote a stress-free recovery.
What Precautions Should You Take When Wearing Makeup After Cataract Surgery?
Once your ophthalmologist clears you to use makeup again, the following tips can help ensure the health and safety of your eyes:
Out with the Old, In with the New
Old makeup can be an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. When it’s safe to begin wearing makeup again, consider discarding old makeup and investing in new products.
This will minimize the risk of introducing bacteria to your eyes.
Opt for Hypoallergenic Products
Your eye could still be sensitive for some time. Therefore, when shopping for makeup, look for words like hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested, or safe for sensitive eyes and skin to lower the risk of irritation.
Be Gentle
To reduce the risk of irritation and avoid putting pressure on your eyes, apply makeup with a gentle touch. Also, use gentle motions and be patient when removing your makeup.
Avoid any tugging or pulling at the skin around your eyes.
Get on the Path to Clearer, Healthier Vision
Cataract surgery at Jacksonville Eye Center can get rid of cataracts, dramatically improve your vision, and free you from the hassles of visual aids, depending on the IOL you select. Post-surgery care is just as important, and our expert ophthalmologists will guide you through the process to ensure optimal healing and lasting results.
Are cataracts getting in the way of your daily life? Schedule your appointment at Jacksonville Eye Center in Jacksonville, FL, today to determine if it’s time for cataract surgery.