You have suffered an injury to your cornea, which is the clear surface of the eye (similar to the crystal of a watch). Since the cornea is extremely sensitive, you can expect to be rather uncomfortable and sensitive to light for the next 24 to 48 hours.

The pressure patch that has been placed over your eye serves two purposes:

It will decrease your discomfort by preventing the eyelid from moving up and down over the injured cornea.
It will speed the healing process.

In order to accomplish these goals, the patch must remain tight. Should it become loose, replace it promptly or add additional tape. It is essential that your eyelid be closed and unable to move beneath the pad or patch.

Infections of the cornea are rare but can occur following a corneal abrasion or corneal foreign body. Therefore, we recommend that you use an antibiotic at least four times daily. This should be continued for no less than a week.

Also, you may have had your eye dilated in our office or may have been given instructions to use medication that will dilate the eye. This will make the eye more comfortable during the healing period. Do not be concerned about your enlarged pupil or decreased vision. It is a temporary effect of your medication, and you can expect your eye to return to normal within several days of discontinuing its use.

In summary, your eye should show marked improvement within 24 to 48 hours. If your eye has not shown significant improvement, or seems to be getting worse, it is imperative that you contact our office for a follow-up appointment.