Post-Cataract Surgery Makeup: A Guide to Safe Application

Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure generally performed while the patient is conscious. You can usually resume your regular daily activities within 24 hours of the surgery, though the exact time varies from case to case. You can also wear some forms of makeup immediately after surgery. You must wait 2 weeks for eye makeup, however.

Things You'll Need

• Powder foundation
• Foundation brush
• Lipstick
• Blush
• Eyeshadow
• Eyeshadow applicator
• Mascara

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Instructions

• 1

  Apply powder foundation as soon as you are comfortable wearing makeup after surgery. There is no medical reason to wait to apply powder. Use your foundation brush to spread the foundation on your entire face. Do not apply the powder to your eyelids.

• 2

  Apply lipstick as soon as you are comfortable after your surgery, as well. You can also wear blush immediately after cataract surgery. For applying blush, sweep the brush from your cheekbones toward your hairline, keeping the powder away from your ocular bone.

• 3

  Apply eyeshadow, mascara, or eyeliner 2 weeks after your surgery. Dip your eyeshadow applicator into the powder and gently sweep the color across your lid. Apply one coat of mascara and do not apply eyeshadow to your waterline.

• 4

  Resume your regular makeup routine 1 month after surgery.