<P> Therefore, the anaesthetist ensures that the eyes are fully closed and remain closed throughout the procedure . Seemingly trivial contact can result in corneal abrasions and the risk of this occurring is markedly increased if exposure keratopathy is already present . Corneal abrasions can be excruciatingly painful in the postoperative period, may hamper postoperative rehabilitation and may require ongoing ophthalmological review and after care . In extreme cases there may be partial or complete visual loss . </P> <P> Iatrogenic injury of the eyelids is also common . Bruising (frequently) and tearing (rarely) of the eyelid can occur when the adhesive dressing used to hold the eye closed is removed . Removal of eyelashes can also occur . </P> <P> Methods to prevent intraoperative corneal injuries include </P> <Ul> <Li> simple manual closure of the eyelids </Li> <Li> holding the eyelids shut with tape or a general purpose adhesive dressing </Li> <Li> use of a specially designed eyelid occlusion dressing </Li> <Li> use of eye ointment (although this is controversial, see below) </Li> <Li> bio-occlusive dressings </Li> <Li> suture tarsorrhaphy </Li> </Ul>

Why do they tape your eyes in surgery