When can I bend over and lift after tube shunt surgery?

The American Academy of Ophthalmology says that after a glaucoma drainage implant you cannot bend over, strain, or lift heavy objects as you recover, and in its exercise guidance says specifically for trabeculectomy and tube implants to avoid any lifting, bending, or straining until cleared by your doctor.

The Glaucoma Research Foundation adds that heavy lifting and other strenuous activities should be avoided for at least one week after glaucoma surgery, and lists bending and heavy lifting among the things to avoid while recovering. The Glaucoma Research Foundation also notes generally that heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activity can increase eye pressure.

The reason is that bending below the waist and straining raise pressure in the head and eye at a time when the tube, the plate stitches, and the patch graft are all still settling. Straining on the toilet counts, so ask about a stool softener if your pain medicine is likely to cause constipation. Keep loads light and above waist height for at least the first week, then follow your surgeon's number.