What Is Bss Ophthalmic Solution? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

What Is Bss Ophthalmic Solution?

Bss Ophthalmic Solution (Balanced Salt Solution) is a sterile irrigating solution used by eye surgeons to keep the eye hydrated and protected during ophthalmic surgical procedures.

If your doctor has mentioned BSS in connection with an upcoming eye surgery, here's everything you need to know about what it is, how it's used, and what it costs.

The Basics: Brand, Generic, and Manufacturer

Here's a quick snapshot of Bss Ophthalmic Solution:

• Generic name: Balanced Salt Solution
• Brand names: BSS Sterile Irrigating Solution, BSS Plus, Endosol Extra, Navstel
• Drug class: Ophthalmic irrigating solution (ophthalmic lubricants and irrigations)
• Manufacturer: Alcon Laboratories, Inc. (Fort Worth, Texas)
• Controlled substance: No — BSS is not a controlled substance
• Generic available: Yes — generic balanced salt solution is available from multiple manufacturers

BSS has been a staple of ophthalmic surgery for decades. Alcon is the dominant manufacturer of FDA-approved formulations in the United States.

What Is Bss Ophthalmic Solution Used For?

BSS is an FDA-approved irrigating solution used during eye surgery. Its approved indications include:

• Extraocular irrigation — Rinsing the outside of the eye during surgical procedures
• Intraocular irrigation — Maintaining hydration inside the eye during procedures lasting up to 60 minutes
• Cataract extraction surgery — One of the most common uses; BSS keeps the eye chamber inflated and tissues hydrated during cataract removal
• Corneal transplantation — Used to irrigate the eye during corneal replacement procedures
• Anterior segment surgery — Any surgery involving the front portion of the eye

BSS is also used off-label in some settings, including:

• Vitreoretinal surgery (BSS Plus is preferred for longer procedures)
• Wound irrigation in ophthalmology clinics
• Contact lens rinsing in clinical settings
• Irrigation during glaucoma surgery

To understand the science behind how BSS protects your eye, read How Does Bss Ophthalmic Solution Work?

How Is Bss Ophthalmic Solution Used?

This is an important distinction: Bss Ophthalmic Solution is not something you take at home. It's administered by your eye surgeon during the procedure. Here's how it works:

• The solution is delivered through an irrigating needle attached to the BSS bottle or through a perfusion system
• Your surgeon controls the flow and volume based on the procedure type and duration
• BSS is for single patient use only — any unused solution is discarded after the procedure
• You will not need to purchase or handle BSS yourself

Available Sizes

• 15 mL sterile bottle with LUER-LOK adapter
• 30 mL sterile bottle with LUER-LOK adapter
• 500 mL sterile bottle (BSS Plus)

The volume used depends entirely on the procedure. Your surgeon determines how much is needed — there's no "standard dose" in the traditional sense.

Who Should Not Use Bss Ophthalmic Solution?

BSS is administered by trained surgical professionals, so contraindications are managed by your surgical team. However, BSS should NOT be used:

• For injection or intravenous infusion — This is a critical safety warning on the label
• If the solution is discolored or contains particles
• If the seal is broken or the container is damaged

Special caution is needed for diabetic patients undergoing vitrectomy, as intraoperative lens changes have been observed with isotonic irrigating solutions. Your surgeon should know about your diabetes before any eye procedure.

For more on potential side effects, read our detailed guide: Bss Ophthalmic Solution Side Effects.

How Much Does Bss Ophthalmic Solution Cost?

Because BSS is a surgical supply rather than a retail prescription, its cost is typically bundled into your overall surgical facility fee. Here's what the product itself costs:

• BSS standard (15 mL bottle): $8 to $25
• BSS Plus (500 mL bottle): $35 to $90
• Generic balanced salt solution (500 mL): $15 to $50 for institutional purchasers

Insurance Coverage

BSS is typically covered as a surgical supply under medical insurance (not your pharmacy benefit). It's billed as part of the surgical procedure facility fee. No prior authorization or step therapy is usually required because it's classified as a surgical supply, not a standalone prescription.

Savings Programs

Because BSS is a professional surgical product — not a retail prescription — there are no manufacturer coupon programs or patient assistance programs for patients to use. The cost is handled between your surgical facility and their suppliers.

For a complete breakdown of cost-saving strategies for eye care, see our guide on How to Save Money on Bss Ophthalmic Solution.

Final Thoughts

Bss Ophthalmic Solution is a trusted, FDA-approved surgical product that plays a critical role in keeping your eye safe during surgery. It's been used in millions of cataract extractions, corneal transplants, and other eye procedures worldwide.

As a patient, you don't need to worry about buying, storing, or administering BSS — that's all handled by your surgical team. What you can do is choose a qualified eye surgeon, ask informed questions, and follow your post-operative care instructions.

If you have questions about any medications related to your eye surgery, Medfinder can help you find what you need.