Before your operation
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.
How to clean your eyelids
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.
In the days immediately prior to your surgery
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.
Diabetic patients
Uncontrolled Blood glucose levels influences infection and can
lead to cancellation of your surgical procedure. Please ensure your
readings are within normal parameters.
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Author Ophthalmology Department
Approved by Ophthalmology Directorate Meeting
Date of Publication 13/10/2025
Reference No PL/1448 (v2)
Review Date 01/10/2028
