Intraocular Lens Placement

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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Intraocular lens (IOL) placement is a procedure to put a new lens in your eye. Your lens is a clear disc located on the front part of your eye. It directs light to the back of your eye. This procedure is used as treatment for cataracts.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You cannot see at all.

Call your doctor if:

• Your vision suddenly gets worse.
• You feel a sharp pain in your eye that does not go away.
• You have redness or swelling in or around your eyes.
• You scratch or bump your eye.
• You feel nauseated or you vomit.
• You have a fever or chills.
• You feel weak and achy, or have a cough..
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Medicines:

You may need any of the following:

• NSAIDs help decrease swelling and pain or fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
• Antibiotics help prevent a bacterial infection.
• Steroids help decrease inflammation.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Self-care:

• Avoid bright sunlight. Wear sunglasses that protect your eyes from ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Wear a hat with a brim when you go outside in the sun.
• Do not remove your eye patch or shield until your healthcare provider says it is okay.
• Try not to cough, sneeze, or vomit. These actions can cause the pressure in your eye to increase.
• Do not strain (push hard) when you have a bowel movement. This can cause the pressure in your eye to increase. You may feel like you need to strain if you have constipation. Ask for information on how to prevent constipation.
• Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can cause lung damage. They can also increase your risk for getting cataracts. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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