Myopia surgery is a popular choice for those who want to correct their vision and get rid of glasses and contact lenses. However, like any surgery, there are risks involved, and one of them is glaucoma.

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can cause irreversible damage to your vision if left untreated. Here are 30 tips for avoiding glaucoma after myopia surgery:.

1. Choose the right surgeon

One of the most important things you can do to avoid glaucoma after myopia surgery is to choose the right surgeon. Look for a highly qualified and experienced surgeon who has a proven track record of success.

2. Follow pre-op instructions carefully

Before your surgery, your surgeon will give you specific instructions to follow. Make sure you follow them carefully to avoid complications like glaucoma.

3. Choose the right type of surgery

There are several types of myopia surgery available, each with its own risks and benefits. Work with your surgeon to choose the right type of surgery for your needs and to minimize your risk of glaucoma.

4. Monitor your eye pressure

One of the key indicators of glaucoma is high eye pressure. Make sure you get your eye pressure checked regularly after surgery and report any changes to your surgeon immediately.

5. Take all medications as prescribed

If your surgeon prescribes medications after your surgery, make sure you take them exactly as directed. Skipping doses or stopping medication prematurely can increase your risk of complications like glaucoma.

6. Avoid rubbing your eyes

After surgery, your eyes may be sensitive and itchy. However, rubbing your eyes can increase your risk of glaucoma by increasing eye pressure. Use eye drops or other remedies prescribed by your surgeon to soothe your eyes instead.

7. Avoid strenuous activity

Strenuous physical activity can increase your eye pressure, which can increase your risk of glaucoma. Avoid high-intensity workouts or activities that require bending over or lifting heavy objects for a few weeks after surgery.

8. Follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions

Your surgeon will give you specific post-op instructions to follow. Make sure you follow them closely to avoid complications like glaucoma.

9. Wear eye protection when necessary

If you engage in any activities that could cause eye trauma, such as playing sports, wear protective eyewear to reduce your risk of glaucoma.

10. Eat a healthy, balanced diet

A healthy diet can help support overall eye health and reduce your risk of glaucoma. Aim for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats.

11. Quit smoking

Smoking can increase your risk of glaucoma and other eye-related complications. Quitting smoking can mitigate this risk and support overall eye health.

12. Manage chronic medical conditions

If you have any chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, make sure you manage them effectively. These conditions can increase your risk of glaucoma.

13. Get regular eye exams

Regular eye exams can help detect any changes in your eye health and catch conditions like glaucoma early, when they are easier to treat. Speak to your surgeon about how often you should get your eyes checked post-surgery.

14. Know your family history

Some types of glaucoma can be hereditary. If you have a family history of glaucoma, make sure you inform your surgeon so they can take appropriate precautions.

15. Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake

Caffeine and alcohol can increase your eye pressure and increase your risk of complications like glaucoma. Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol post-surgery to minimize your risk.

16. Use eye drops as prescribed

If your surgeon prescribes eye drops after surgery, make sure you use them exactly as directed. Eye drops can help reduce your risk of complications like glaucoma.

17. Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help maintain healthy eye pressure and reduce your risk of glaucoma. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.

18. Rest your eyes frequently

After surgery, your eyes may feel tired and strained. Take frequent breaks to rest your eyes and avoid putting additional strain on them.

19. Practice good hygiene

Good hygiene can help prevent infections that can increase your risk of complications like glaucoma. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes unnecessarily.

20. Avoid exposure to bright lights and glare

Bright lights and glare can be hard on your eyes post-surgery. Avoid exposure as much as possible. If you need to be out in bright light, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.

21. Avoid polluted environments

Polluted environments can cause eye irritation and increase your risk of complications like glaucoma. Avoid smoke-filled rooms or other environments with high levels of pollution.

22. Practice good posture

Good posture can help reduce strain on your eyes and reduce your risk of complications like glaucoma. Sit up straight and avoid hunching over your computer or other devices for extended periods of time.

23. Use prescribed eyeglasses or contact lenses if needed

If your surgeon prescribes eyeglasses or contact lenses post-surgery, make sure you use them exactly as directed. These aids can help reduce your risk of complications like glaucoma.

24. Avoid swimming and other water sports

Swimming and other water sports should be avoided for a few weeks after surgery to reduce your risk of complications like glaucoma.

25. Get enough sleep

Sleep is important for overall eye health. Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night to support healthy eye pressure and reduce your risk of glaucoma.

26. Reduce stress

Stress can increase your eye pressure and increase your risk of complications like glaucoma. Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises to minimize your risk.

27. Consider vision therapy

Vision therapy can help improve eye function and reduce your risk of complications like glaucoma. Speak to your surgeon about whether vision therapy could be beneficial for you.

28. Get regular exercise

Regular exercise can help maintain healthy eye pressure and reduce your risk of glaucoma. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes per day, five days per week.

29. Avoid eye strain

Eye strain can increase your eye pressure and increase your risk of complications like glaucoma. Take frequent breaks if you work at a computer or engage in activities that require extended periods of close-up work.

30. Speak to your surgeon about any concerns

If you have any concerns or questions about your recovery after surgery, don’t hesitate to speak to your surgeon. They can provide you with additional guidance and support to minimize your risk of complications like glaucoma.