Within Ophthalmology eye infections are taken very seriously, this is because any infections around the time of surgery can lead to loss of vision following eye surgery.
For this reason, it is very important that you observe a strict hand and eyelid hygiene regime as directed below:
• We advise that you wash your hands and face with an antibacterial soap for two weeks before your operation to reduce the risk of infection.
• We recommend that you wash your hair and take a bath/ shower the day before your surgery and that you wear clean footwear.
• We recommend that you wear loose fitting clothing for your comfort.
• If you normally wear, contact lenses please do not wear these for 1 week prior to surgery.
• Please refrain from wearing make up for a week prior to surgery, also on the day of surgery please ensure all traces of make up have been removed.
Blepharitis is a chronic condition that occurs due to inflammation of the edges of the eyelids. Blepharitis can cause a build up of skin deposits on your eye lashes, causing an infection. Infections can lead to your operation being cancelled/ postponed. Therefore please follow the below guidance:
This must be done daily for 2 weeks ahead of your planned surgery.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after cleaning your eyelids.
• Mix one teaspoon of mild baby shampoo (any brand) into a mug of boiled water that has cooled down.
• Use cotton wool pads and dip this into the solution. Gently rub the cotton pad over the eyelids moving from the nose over towards the ear. This will help to remove any deposits from the lashes.
• Be careful not to touch your eye.
• Rinse your eye lids thoroughly after cleaning with the baby shampoo solution.
If your GP or other health care professional starts you on any antibiotics for an infection anywhere in your body or you start to feel unwell in the days immediately before your planned surgery, such as:
• A cough, cold or runny nose
• Urinary tract infection
• Wound with suspected infection
• Chest infection
• Diarrhoea or vomiting
• A red, sore, sticky eye
• Skin infection
Please contact the waiting list department on 01253 955522, 01253 955996 or 01253 955995, as we will not be able to proceed with your operation until the infection has resolved.
Uncontrolled Blood glucose levels influences infection and can lead to cancellation of your surgical procedure. Please ensure your readings are within normal parameters.
