Artificial tear drops

Is it safe to use over-the-counter artificial tears the day after eye surgery?  I asked my eye clinic how soon I can start using it after my upcoming surgery, and got two different answers.

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

I give my patients the OK to use artificial tears right away after cataract surgery as long as the tears are BRAND NEW and a major name brand, high quality tear drop.  The tears should be preservative free.  No generic, cheapo tears and definitely NO old, possibly contaminated drops.  Make sure you ask your surgeon and get his/her opinion.  I don't know the specifics of your case and cannnot directly comment on your care.

Michael Kutryb, MD