When Can You Wear Makeup After Cataract Surgery: Practical Timing & Tips

You've just had cataract surgery in Sydney and the first thing on your mind is, "Can I put on my mascara again?" I get it—your routine feels a bit broken, and the thought of staring at a blurry mirror while trying to blend eyeshadow is stressful.

First, let's acknowledge the anxiety. The eyes are still healing, the drops are still running, and you worry about anything touching the delicate surface. That's normal. The good news? Most patients can safely return to their makeup routine within a week to ten days, but it depends on a few simple factors.

Here’s what we look at in our clinic:

• Incision type:A tiny, self‑sealing incision (often used in laser‑assisted cataract surgery) heals faster than a larger stitch‑requiring cut.

• Post‑op eye drops:If you’re still using anti‑inflammatory drops, they’ll keep the eye calm while you reintroduce cosmetics.

• Personal comfort:Some people feel ready sooner; others prefer a bit more caution.

In practice, many of our Sydney patients start with a light, water‑based eyeliner after three days—just enough to define the lash line without tugging. By day five, a gentle, hypoallergenic mascara is usually fine, as long as you avoid the inner rim of the eye and use a clean brush.

But don't just take my word for it. Think about Jenna, a 58‑year‑old who loves bold colors. She waited seven days, applied a single coat of fragrance‑free mascara, and reported no irritation. Contrast that with Mark, who tried to reapply his full eye‑makeup kit on day two and experienced mild redness—he learned to give his eye a little more grace.

Practical steps to make the transition smooth:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching any product.

2. Use brand‑new applicators or clean your brushes with a mild soap and let them air‑dry.

3. Choose water‑based, fragrance‑free formulas; they’re less likely to cause irritation.

4. Avoid heavy, waterproof mascara for the first two weeks; these can be tougher to remove and may pull at the healing tissue.

5. Pay attention to any burning or tearing—if it happens, pause and give your eye another day.

And remember, if you’re unsure about timing, you can always check our guide on other post‑surgery activities, like how soon you can drive after cataract surgery , which walks through similar recovery milestones.

Bottom line: most people feel comfortable re‑applying makeup around day 7, but listen to your own eye. When in doubt, give it an extra day and enjoy the anticipation of looking and feeling your best again.

TL;DR

You can usually start gentle, water‑based mascara around day 5‑7 after cataract surgery in Sydney, as long as your incision is fully sealed and you avoid tugging.

Just wash your hands, use a fresh brush, and stop if you feel burning or redness—listen to your eye and give it a day extra if needed.

Step 1: Follow Your Surgeon’s Post‑Op Instructions

Right after your cataract surgery, the first thing you hear from Dr. Dubey is simple:listen to the post‑op plan.It can feel like a lot of “do‑this, do‑that” instructions, but each one is a tiny safeguard for that fresh incision.

So, what does “follow the surgeon’s instructions” really look like when you’re wonderingwhen can you wear makeup after cataract surgery? Think of it as a checklist that protects the eye while you gradually get back to your routine.

Check the incision seal

Most modern cataract procedures use a self‑sealing micro‑incision. Your surgeon will ask you to look at the eye with a bright light and report any leaking fluid or persistent redness. If anything feels off, pause the makeup plan and give the eye another day.

In our clinic, we usually tell patients to wait until the day‑after‑surgery drop schedule is stable – that means no new redness after the third anti‑inflammatory drop.

Stick to the drop schedule

Those eye drops aren’t just a habit; they keep inflammation down and help the wound close faster. Missing a dose is like leaving a door slightly ajar – the eye is more vulnerable to irritation from a mascara brush.

Set a reminder on your phone. If you’re already checking your phone for the next appointment, you might as well set a “drop” alarm.

Hand hygiene is non‑negotiable

Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before you even think about touching a brush or eyeliner. A quick rinse isn’t enough – you want to scrub away any lingering microbes that could hitch a ride to the eye.

And here’s a tiny tip: keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer at the vanity. It’s not a replacement for washing, but it’s a good backup if you’re in a rush.

Choose the right tools

Use a brand‑new mascara wand or thoroughly clean your existing one with mild soap and let it air‑dry. No shared brushes, no “just a quick swipe” – you want a pristine applicator.

When you finally reach for that water‑based, fragrance‑free mascara, apply a single thin coat away from the inner rim of the eye. If you feel any tugging, stop immediately.

Need a visual guide?

Now that you’ve got the basics down, remember that recovery isn’t just about the eye. You’ll be sleeping more, and the way you rest can influence how quickly you’re ready for makeup.

For tips on picking a mattress that supports side sleepers – a common position after eye surgery – check out this practical guide: Mattress for Side Sleepers Australia: A Practical Buying Guide . A comfortable surface reduces pressure on the face and helps you keep your head elevated.

And if you’re considering a quick hair‑cover solution while you’re still cautious about eye contact, the Wear‑and‑Go Wig Essentials guide can help you choose a low‑maintenance style that won’t interfere with your post‑op routine: Wear‑and‑Go Wig Essentials .

One more thing – you might wonder how all this fits into the bigger picture of post‑op care. Our own guide on sleeping after surgery walks you through positioning and pillow tricks: Can You Sleep on Your Side After Cataract Surgery? It’s the only internal link in this section.

Step 2: Wait the Recommended Healing Period

Now that you’ve got your drops schedule down and the shield is still on at night, the real question is: how long do you actually wait before touching any makeup? The short answer is “until your eye feels sealed and calm,” but the details matter.

Why the waiting period matters

After cataract surgery the incision—usually a self‑sealing, sub‑millimetre cut—needs time to form a firm bond. During the first few days the tissue is still fragile, and even a gentle brush can pull on the wound edge. That’s why we always tell our Sydney patients to give the eye at least five to seven days of uninterrupted healing before any product reaches the lid margin.

Think about it like a fresh scab on a cut. You wouldn’t scrape it off on day two, right? The same principle applies to the tiny incision inside your eye.

Typical timeline you can trust

• Days 1‑3:Focus on drops, keep the protective shield on, and avoid any facial wipes near the eye.

• Days 4‑6:If your surgeon says the eye looks clear and there’s no redness, you may start using a brand‑new, soft eyeliner on the skin side only—never the lash line.

• Days 7‑10:With the green light, a single coat of hypoallergenic, water‑based mascara is usually safe. Use a fresh brush, stay away from the inner rim, and stop immediately if you feel any sting.

These milestones line up with the recovery guidance from Healthwise, which notes that most people feel better within a few days but full visual stability can take up to 10 weeks according to post‑operative care guidelines . That’s why we stress patience; a small delay now prevents a costly setback later.

How to know you’re ready

Look for these signs before you reach for that mascara wand:

• No new redness or swelling around the incision.

• Comfortable with drops—no burning or tearing.

• Vision is stable; you’re not seeing new haziness.

• You can keep the shield on for a full night without irritation.

If any of those checks fail, give yourself another 24‑48 hours and keep the shield on. A quick call to our clinic can give you peace of mind and a revised schedule.

Practical tips while you wait

Keep a dedicated “post‑op” makeup kit. Throw away old brushes; they can harbour bacteria.

Set a reminder on your phone to log each drop—missing a dose can extend the healing window.

Use a clean, soft towel to pat the eye dry; never rub.

Stay hydrated and get plenty of sleep; your body heals faster when rested.

And if you’re the type who likes a visual guide, here’s a quick video that walks you through the safe timeline for re‑introducing makeup after cataract surgery.

Remember, the goal isn’t to rush the process but to give your eye the best chance to heal without complications. A little patience now means you’ll be able to enjoy flawless eye‑makeup for years to come.

If you ever feel unsure, jot down the time you notice any discomfort and share it with us at the next follow‑up. We’ll review the healing progress and adjust the timeline, ensuring you return to your favourite mascara without risking infection or blurred vision.

Step 3: Test Eye Sensitivity with Gentle Makeup

Okay, you’ve cleared the waiting period and you’ve got a brand‑new, clean brush in hand. Before you dive into a full‑on mascara marathon, let’s do a quick “sensitivity test.” Think of it as a gentle audition for your eye – you want to know if it’s ready for the spotlight or still needs a curtain call.

Why a test matters

Even after the incision seals, the tissue around the eyelid can stay a little tender for days. A tiny amount of product can trigger redness, a sting, or even a low‑grade infection if bacteria hitch a ride. By applying a super‑light layer first, you catch any warning signs before they become a full‑blown problem.

In our clinic in Sydney, we’ve seen patients like Maya (who prefers to stay anonymous) who did a “one‑stroke” test on day 6 and felt absolutely fine. Contrast that with Sam, who skipped the test and noticed a gritty feeling after his first coat of mascara – he had to pause and let the eye settle an extra 24 hours.

Step‑by‑step sensitivity checklist

1. Wash your hands, again.Use soap, rinse, and dry with a lint‑free towel. This isn’t the time to be lazy.

2. Pick a hypoallergenic, water‑based mascara.Look for “fragrance‑free” and “ophthalmologist‑tested” on the label. Avoid waterproof formulas for at least the first two weeks.

3. Use a brand‑new brush.Even if you clean your old one, a fresh tip eliminates hidden microbes.

4. Apply a single, thin swipe.Start at the outer half of the lash line, avoiding the inner rim where the incision sits.

5. Step back and observe.Wait 15‑20 minutes. If you notice any burning, tearing, or new redness, rinse gently with sterile saline and stop.

6. Document the outcome.Jot down the time, product name, and how your eye feels. This record helps your surgeon fine‑tune the next steps.

If everything feels normal, you’ve earned the green light to add a second coat or try a soft eyeliner. If you experienced any irritation, give your eye another day and repeat the test with the same product before moving on.

Real‑world scenarios

Emily, a 62‑year‑old Sydney teacher, waited seven days, did the single‑stroke test, and felt a faint tickle. She rinsed with sterile saline, waited another 12 hours, and tried again – this time no reaction. She now enjoys a daily coat of mascara without a hitch.

James, a 55‑year‑old accountant, tried the test on day 5 with a brand‑new eyeliner instead of mascara. He felt immediate stinging. His surgeon advised a short extension of the drop regimen and suggested a different brand. After day 8, the same eyeliner was painless.

Pro tip from the clinic

Keep a tiny “test kit” in your bathroom: a disposable mascara wand, a sealed packet of sterile saline, and a small notepad. When you’re ready, pull out the kit, perform the test, and note the results. It’s a low‑effort habit that saves you from a potential infection.

Also, remember that even the cleanest brush can pick up particles from the surrounding air. If you live in a dusty environment, consider applying your test makeup in a bathroom with the fan on – it reduces airborne irritants.

When to pause and call us

Any of the following warrants a quick phone call:

• Persistent burning after the test.

• New redness that doesn’t fade within an hour.

• Sudden increase in tearing or a feeling of something “stuck” in the eye.

We’ll review your notes, maybe adjust your drop schedule, and give you a personalized go‑ahead.

And just in case you’re wondering how this fits into the bigger recovery picture, you can also check out our guide on sleeping positions after cataract surgery – a comfortable night’s rest helps your eye stay calm for those makeup trials.

Bottom line: a tiny, controlled test is the smartest way to re‑introduce makeup. It lets you spot irritation early, keeps your healing on track, and gets you back to feeling confident in front of the mirror without risking infection.

Step 4: Choose Safe Makeup Products and Techniques

Alright, you’ve survived the waiting period and the sensitivity test. Now the real fun begins – picking the right products that won’t turn your healing eye into a battlefield. The key is to think of your post‑op eye like a fresh garden: you want gentle, nourishing tools, not heavy‑duty equipment that rips the soil.

First, steer clear of anything that smells strong or feels gritty. Fragrance‑free, water‑based formulas are your best friends. They break down quickly with tears and won’t leave a residue that could trap bacteria. Look for labels that say “ophthalmologist‑tested” or “hypoallergenic” – those little badges aren’t just marketing fluff; they’re a sign the product has passed a higher safety bar.

Here’s a quick checklist you can print and tape to your bathroom mirror:

• Water‑based, fragrance‑free mascara or eyeliner.

• New or freshly sterilised brush – think disposable wand or a brush you’ve boiled for three minutes.

• No waterproof formulas for the first two weeks – they require oil‑based removers that can tug at the incision.

• Avoid glitter, shimmer, and any product with mica particles until you’re fully comfortable.

Does that feel like a lot? It isn’t. It’s just the same routine you’d use for a clean kitchen countertop – wipe, sanitize, then use a fresh sponge.

Real‑world product picks

We’ve seen patients in Sydney swear by a few brands that consistently pass the test. For example,Clinique High Impact Mascara(the original, not the waterproof version) is water‑based and comes in a sterile, single‑use tube. Another favourite isMaybelline Fresh Effectsliner – it’s thin, easy to control, and doesn’t contain added pigments that can irritate.

On the flip side, a patient named Tara tried a popular waterproof mascara on day 6 and woke up with a gritty sensation and mild redness. She switched to a water‑based alternative, waited another 24 hours, and the irritation vanished. The lesson? Even the most beloved products can be a bad fit for a healing eye.

When you’re shopping, ask yourself: “Can I rinse this off with sterile saline without any effort?” If the answer is no, stash it for later.

Application technique – treat it like a gentle brushstroke

Even the safest product can cause trouble if you apply it wrong. Here’s how to keep the process as painless as possible:

1. Wash your hands again – yes, we said it twice because it matters.

2. Snap a brand‑new mascara wand or a clean brush. If you’re re‑using a brush, soak it in boiling water for three minutes, let it air‑dry, and store it in a sealed container.

3. Load the brush lightly – you want a thin line, not a paint‑roller coat.

4. Start at the outer corner of the lash line, moving inward but stopping just short of the inner rim where the incision sits.

5. Step back, blink a few times, and watch for any sting. If you feel anything, rinse with sterile saline immediately.

Pro tip: Do this in a low‑humidity bathroom with the fan on. The air circulation reduces airborne dust that could land on your brush.

Need a deeper dive into why timing matters? Check out our guide on how soon you can drive after cataract surgery – the same principles of tissue stability apply.

Table: Safe vs. Risky Makeup Choices

Product Type	Key Feature	Why It’s Safe
Water‑based mascara	Fragrance‑free, easy rinse	Leaves no oily residue; less likely to trap bacteria.
Disposable eyeliner wand	Eliminates brush‑borne microbes entirely.
Glitter eye shadow	Contains mica particles	Particles can scratch the incision and harbor microbes – avoid for at least 2 weeks.

Notice how each safe option shares the theme of “easy to clean” and “minimal contact.” That’s the formula you want.

And here’s a tiny habit that makes a huge difference: keep a tiny “makeup‑test kit” in your bathroom drawer. Include a disposable wand, a sealed packet of sterile saline, and a notepad. When you feel ready, pull it out, do the single‑stroke test, and jot down any sensation. It turns a vague fear into concrete data you can share with us.

Finally, don’t forget your glasses. A smudge on the lens can make you rub your eye more than you should. If you need a quick refresher on keeping them crystal clear, this guide on how to clean glasses without streaks is a lifesaver.

Bottom line: choose water‑based, fragrance‑free products, use brand‑new or sterilised tools, apply with a light touch, and always have a backup plan to rinse and record any reaction. Follow these steps, and you’ll be back to your favourite eye‑makeup routine without compromising your healing eye.

Step 5: Long‑Term Eye Care After Resuming Makeup

Congratulations, you’ve gotten past the sensitivity test and you’re back to adding a swipe of mascara. But the work doesn’t stop there—your eye still needs gentle, ongoing care to stay healthy for months to come.

So, what should you do once you’re comfortably wearing makeup again? Think of it like tending a garden: you water, prune, and watch for weeds, not just plant the seed and walk away.

Keep your tools spotless

Every brush, wand, or spoolie is a potential carrier for bacteria. Even a brand‑new brush can pick up dust from the air, so we recommend a clean‑up routine after each use.

• Rinse the bristles in warm, mild soap immediately after you’re done.

• Boil the brush head for three minutes (or run it through the dishwasher’s sterilise cycle) once a week.

• Air‑dry on a clean towel, then store in a sealed zip‑lock bag.

• Replace any brush that shows fraying, shedding, or a lingering odor – usually every 2–3 months for daily users.

Imagine you’ve just finished a night out and you’re about to toss the wand into the junk drawer. Instead, give it a quick rinse and let it dry. That tiny habit can cut infection risk dramatically.

Stick to gentle, hypoallergenic formulas

Water‑based, fragrance‑free mascara and eyeliner are still the safest choice weeks after surgery. Waterproof formulas contain oils and polymers that cling to lashes and demand vigorous rubbing for removal – exactly the motion you want to avoid.

Look for label cues like “ophthalmologist‑tested,” “hypoallergenic,” or “safe for sensitive eyes.” If a product lists “micas,” “glitters,” or “silicone beads,” hold off until you’ve had at least eight weeks of steady healing.

According to a recent guide, most surgeons advise a minimum one‑week waiting period before any eye makeup , and many patients continue using only the lightest formulas for the first month.

Watch, note, and act on any irritation

Even with perfect products, a stray particle can cause a sting. Make it a habit to glance in the mirror before you leave the house and ask yourself:

• Is there any redness that wasn’t there yesterday?

• Do my eyes feel gritty or watery after removal?

• Is there a burning sensation when I blink?

If you answer “yes” to any of those, rinse the eye gently with sterile saline and pause makeup for another 24‑48 hours. Jot the date, product name, and symptom in a small notebook – this record helps your surgeon spot patterns.

Daily protection matters

UV exposure can irritate the healing cornea, so wear sunglasses with 100 % UV‑blocking lenses whenever you’re outside, even on cloudy days. Inside, keep the humidity level comfortable; dry air can make the eye feel itchy, tempting you to rub.

And remember: your eyelids are still a bit fragile. Avoid heavy eye rubbing, even when you’re wiping away mascara smudges. Use a soft cotton pad soaked in sterile saline to lift away residue instead of pulling.

Stay connected with your surgeon

Long‑term recovery isn’t a set‑it‑and‑forget‑it timeline. If you notice persistent tearing, new haziness, or any sudden change in vision, call the clinic right away. In our experience, a quick check‑in can prevent a minor irritation from becoming a full‑blown infection.

Most patients, like Sophie – a 62‑year‑old Sydney retiree who resumed makeup on day 8 – find that a brief follow‑up at two weeks confirms everything is on track. She now sticks to a weekly brush‑sterilise schedule and swaps out her mascara tube every three months.

Finally, keep the bigger picture in mind: the first week after surgery is critical, but healing continues for up to eight weeks according to a comprehensive recovery guide that outlines the gradual tissue repair . Treat your eye like a marathon, not a sprint, and you’ll enjoy makeup without compromise for years to come.

Deep Dive: Understanding Cataract Surgery Recovery Timeline

Right after your cataract procedure, the eye is a tiny, fresh wound. It’s not just about vision clearing – the tissue needs time to seal, the inflammation has to settle, and the tear film must regain its balance. That’s why the timeline matters more than you might think.

In our Sydney clinic, we see most patients hit the first milestone – feeling comfortable blinking without a sting – around day 3 to 5. At that point, the incision is typically self‑sealed, but the surrounding eyelid skin and conjunctiva are still tender. Think of it like a new scab: you can see it, but you wouldn’t pick at it.

So, what does “healed enough for makeup” really look like? It’s a checklist, not a calendar. You want:

• No new redness or swelling around the incision.

• Stable vision – no sudden haziness.

• A comfortable eye drop routine without burning.

If any of those flags pop up, give yourself another 24‑48 hours before you even think about a mascara wand.

Week 1: The Critical Window

Days 1‑3 are all about drops, shield protection, and absolute avoidance of anything that could tug the wound. Even a gentle wipe with a cotton pad can transmit microbes if you’re not careful.

By day 4 most patients can start a light, water‑based eyeliner on the skin side of the lid. The key is staying away from the lash line where the incision sits. If you notice a twinge, stop and rinse with sterile saline – then wait.

Day 6‑7 is the sweet spot for a single, thin swipe of hypoallergenic mascara. Use a brand‑new brush, apply only to the outer lashes, and watch for any burning. If all feels good, you’ve passed the “sensitivity test” without a hitch.

Week 2‑3: Consolidating Healing

Even though the incision is sealed, the corneal epithelium continues to remodel for up to three weeks. That’s why we advise sticking with water‑based, fragrance‑free formulas for the first two weeks. Waterproof or heavy‑duty products can pull at the lashes and force you to rub – exactly what you want to avoid.

During this phase, a quick daily self‑check helps. Look for tiny specks of debris, mild tearing, or a vague “gritty” sensation. If something feels off, rinse and give the eye an extra day of rest.

Most of our Sydney patients can safely add a second coat of mascara by day 10, provided the eye feels calm. That’s also a good time to re‑introduce a soft, non‑metallic eyeshadow – just keep the brush clean.

Weeks 4‑8: Fine‑Tuning Long‑Term Care

Full visual stability may not arrive until 6‑8 weeks, especially if you had a more complex cataract or a combined retinal procedure. During this period, keep your makeup tools spotless. Boil brushes for three minutes once a week or run them through a dishwasher’s sterilise cycle.

It’s also wise to rotate mascara tubes every three months. Even a brand‑new tube can become a breeding ground for bacteria after repeated use.

UV protection stays important. Sunglasses with 100 % UV‑blocking lenses reduce glare and help keep the cornea moist, which indirectly supports a smoother makeup experience.

When to Call the Clinic

Any of the following warrants a quick phone call: persistent burning after a mascara swipe, new redness that doesn’t fade within an hour, or a sudden increase in tearing. A brief check‑in can catch an infection before it spirals.

Remember, the recovery timeline is personal. Some eyes settle in five days, others take ten. Trust your symptoms, not just the calendar.

Bottom line: the “when can you wear makeup after cataract surgery” question isn’t a single date – it’s a series of small, observable steps. Follow the week‑by‑week milestones, keep tools pristine, and listen to your eye. When you do, you’ll be back to your favourite look without risking a setback.

Conclusion

We've walked through every milestone, from the first drop to the final mascara swipe, so you know exactly when you can wear makeup after cataract surgery. The bottom line? Wait until your incision feels sealed, start with a gentle water‑based product, and always use a fresh brush.

Here’s a quick checklist you can keep on your bathroom mirror:

• Day 5‑7: apply a single, thin coat of hypoallergenic mascara.

• Observe for any burning, redness, or tearing for 20‑30 minutes.

• If anything feels off, rinse with sterile saline and pause 24 hours.

• Sterilise your brush weekly (boil 3 minutes or dishwasher sterilise).

• Replace mascara tubes every three months.

Real‑world examples reinforce the plan. Jenna from Sydney waited until day 7, used a brand‑new brush, and experienced zero irritation. Mark, who rushed the process, also had to extend his drop regimen after a mild burn. Their stories show that patience pays off.

In our experience, patients who follow the timeline also notice clearer vision faster, because they avoid inflammation caused by accidental rubbing.

Remember to keep your glasses spotless before any makeup – a streak‑free lens reduces the urge to wipe the eye. Learn how to clean glasses without streaks for that extra peace of mind.

Finally, if you want a deeper dive into cataract recovery or have specific concerns, explore our cataract surgery guide . Stay attentive, follow the steps, and you’ll be back to your favourite looks without compromising healing.

FAQ

When can I safely wear makeup after cataract surgery?

Generally you can start with a single coat of gentle, water‑based mascara about day 5‑7, but only if your eye feels calm—no new redness, burning, or tearing. Use a brand‑new brush, apply away from the incision line, and stop immediately if you feel any sting. Think of it as a test drive: a short swipe tells you whether the eye is ready for more.

What signs tell me my eye isn’t ready for makeup yet?

Look for fresh redness around the incision, a gritty feeling, or unexpected tearing after drops. If the protective shield still feels uncomfortable at night, that’s a cue to wait another 24‑48 hours. Even a mild twinge after a single swipe means you should rinse with sterile saline and give the eye extra rest before trying again.

Can I use waterproof mascara right after the first week?

We recommend avoiding waterproof formulas for at least two weeks. Those products contain oils that cling to lashes and often require harsh removers, which can tug at the healing tissue. Stick with fragrance‑free, water‑based mascara until your surgeon confirms the incision is fully sealed—usually around day 10‑12 for most Sydney patients.

How often should I replace my makeup tools after surgery?

Swap out mascara tubes every three months and sterilise brushes weekly. Boil the brush head for three minutes or run it through a dishwasher’s sterilise cycle. If a brush shows fraying, shedding, or a lingering smell, toss it right away. Fresh tools reduce bacterial load and keep the eye environment as clean as possible.

Is it okay to use eyeliner while I’m still healing?

Soft, disposable eyeliner wands are fine once you’ve cleared day 4‑6 and only on the skin side of the lid—not the lash line. Choose a hypoallergenic, fragrance‑free pencil and apply a thin line away from the inner rim. If you notice any stinging, rinse and wait before re‑applying.

What should I do if I experience irritation after a makeup test?

First, rinse the eye gently with sterile saline. Document the product name, time, and symptoms in a small notebook—this helps your surgeon fine‑tune the plan. If redness or burning persists beyond an hour, call the clinic. A quick check‑in can prevent a minor irritation from turning into an infection.

Do I need to change any of my post‑op eye‑drop routine when I start wearing makeup?

Keep the drop schedule exactly as prescribed; makeup doesn’t replace drops. In fact, you might find you need an extra dose of artificial tears if the lashes feel dry after mascara. Just make sure the drops are applied before any makeup, and avoid touching the bottle tip to any surface—including your brush.