Most ophthalmologists impose no long-term activity restrictions for pediatric eye surgery patients
A recent survey of ophthalmologists found significant variation in postoperative activity recommendations for pediatric patients following cataract and glaucoma surgeries. The study surveyed 49 ophthalmologists regarding their long-term guidelines for water-based activities, sports, and other high-risk activities after the first-month post-surgery.
Most ophthalmologists impose few or no restrictions on participation in these activities, according to survey results. Most respondents (72%-88%) reported no long-term limitations, regardless of the type of surgery performed, which included primary cataract extraction with or without intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, and various glaucoma surgeries. Factors such as surgical technique, eye pressure, and lens type did not significantly influence postoperative activity guidelines.
Pediatric patients undergoing cataract surgery without an IOL were more likely to be advised to wear protective eyewear, but the guidelines showed that complete activity restrictions were less common for these patients compared to those with IOLs.
Reference
Ngo AM, Kraus CL. Postoperative guidelines following pediatric cataract and glaucoma surgeries: a survey of preferred surgeon instructions. J AAPOS. 2025;104112. doi: 10.1016/j.jaapos.2025.104112. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39863265.
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