After cataract surgery, which sleeping position should be avoided the night after surgery?

• A. Avoid lying on side of affected eye the night after surgery
• B. Sleep on the side of the affected eye to promote drainage
• C. Sleep in a prone position with neck hyperextended
• D. Sleep on the opposite side with extra pillow support

Answer: (A)

After cataract surgery the eye needs protection from pressure to allow the incision to heal properly and prevent pressure-related complications. Lying on the side of the operated eye directly presses on the healing wound, increasing the risk of wound disruption and spikes in intraocular pressure. That’s why this sleeping position should be avoided the first night.

Sleeping on the opposite side with pillow support keeps the operated eye off the pillow and avoids direct pressure, making it a safer choice. A prone position with the neck hyperextended can still put unwanted strain and pressure on the eye, so it isn’t recommended. The idea of sleeping on the affected-eye side to promote drainage isn’t appropriate, since external pressure on the wound doesn’t aid drainage and can hinder healing.