You can achieve proper head positioning while lying, sitting or standing. Changing position often will help you to be more comfortable. While lying in bed, your head must be facing into the pillow. Generally this means lying on your stomach although you may shift slightly on to your side as long as you maintain your head position. To ease neck and back discomfort, you may sit in a chair and rest your head down on a table. A donut shaped pillow can be cut from foam rubber or a child size inflatable swimming float can be used to support your head while allowing more breathing room. You can roll a towel, place it into a nylon stocking and tie it into a circular shape to use as a head support. Massage table head and body support pillows are available to rent through some health care supply outlets. A padded softball catcher’s mask has been helpful in some cases because it allows more breathing space.

You can read, while keeping your head down, by resting your forehead on a table and placing the book on your lap. Large print books, available at the library are often easier to read while recovering from eye surgery. Books on cassette tape are available at the library and at book stores to help pass the time. You can also watch T.V. by setting up a small portable television or by positioning a mirror to view the screen. Preparing your home, before your operation, will help you to maintain your post-operative positioning more comfortably. If you have any questions or would like more information, please call us at 448-1801.