Free tool · No sign-up · Nothing stored

Eye drop schedule after cataract surgery

Turn the drop sheet you were sent home with into a clear, dated, tickable plan. Enter your surgery date and your drops — the planner spreads each dose across the day, lays out the taper week by week, and prints onto one page so you never lose track.

Follow YOUR surgeon's sheet — the presets are only a common example. Drop names, strengths, how many times a day and how long all vary by surgeon and by eye. This tool only organises the schedule you were given; it does not set or change your doses. If your sheet differs, follow your sheet.

Quick answer

Most people use eye drops for about 4 weeks after cataract surgery: commonly an antibiotic drop for the first week and a steroid drop tapering over roughly 4 weeks (often 4× a day in week 1, then 3, 2, then 1), sometimes with an NSAID drop for 2–4 weeks. Wait about 5 minutes between different drops, and don't stop the steroid early just because the eye feels fine. Your surgeon's printed sheet sets your exact drops and length — it always wins over this example.

Your drops

Add each drop exactly as on your sheet. Leave a row blank to skip it. The taper lets a drop change how many times a day, week by week.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Saurabh Shukla, MBBS, DNB Anesthesiology · Last updated June 2026

Frequently asked questions

How long do I use eye drops after cataract surgery?

Most people use drops for about 4 weeks. A common pattern is an antibiotic drop for the first week, an anti-inflammatory steroid drop on a tapering schedule over roughly 4 weeks (often 4 times a day in week 1, then 3, 2, then 1), and sometimes an NSAID drop for 2–4 weeks. Your surgeon's printed sheet sets your exact drops and length — always follow it over any general example.

In what order do I put in different eye drops?

The order usually doesn't matter, but the gap does: put in one drop, then wait about 5 minutes before the next so the first isn't washed out. One drop per eye is enough — the eye can't hold more. Wash your hands first, don't let the bottle tip touch your eye or lashes, and gently close the eye for a minute after each drop.

When can I stop my eye drops after cataract surgery?

Only stop when your surgeon's schedule says to — usually at the end of the taper, around 4 weeks. Don't stop the steroid early just because the eye feels fine; stopping inflammation drops too soon can cause swelling at the back of the eye. If you're unsure, finish the course on your sheet and check at your follow-up.

Is my information saved?

No. Your schedule is generated entirely on your own device and nothing you enter is stored or sent anywhere. You can print it or save it as a PDF to stick on the fridge or share with whoever helps with your drops.