What Patients Can Expect After Having Cataract Surgery
There are currently more people around the world suffering from cataracts than any other eye diseases combined. In fact, over 20 million people have been left blind from this condition, making cataracts the world’s number one cause of blindness. Thankfully, with modern cataract surgery, it only takes 15 minutes to avoid becoming part of these scary statistics. There are 3.8 million people in the United States who will choose to correct their vision with cataract eye surgery this year. If you are one of them, read on to learn more about what you can expect while recovering from cataract surgery and proper aftercare treatment.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Cataract Surgery Aftercare
- Do wear your protective eyewear
- Do follow your surgeon’s instructions
- Do rest as much as possible
- Don’t drive for 24 hours
- Don’t rub, itch, or touch your eyes
- Don’t partake in any water activities
Immediately After Cataract Surgery
You will not be able to drive for at least 24 hours after having cataract surgery, so you will need to coordinate with a close friend or family member to drive you home when your procedure is completed. You naturally begin healing immediately after your cataract surgery but you will need to rest for the first few days. We will provide a protective eye shield for you to wear home from your appointment and whenever you are sleeping.
While most patients report mild symptoms, it is normal to feel slight discomfort and sensitivity to light as the anesthetic begins to wear off. We will provide eyedrops to help combat any dry or itchy discomfort and protect you from infection during recovery.
Common Side Effects
- Dry eyes
- Itchy eyes
- Watering eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Redness or inflammation
- Blurry vision
While your body is healing it is important to get as much rest as possible. With caution, you will be able to return to most normal activities within a very short period of time after cataract surgery. Patients are typically able to watch TV, walk without assistance, and shower normally after the first day. Avoid soaking in any water, and make sure no water or soap gets in your eyes while showering.
Days After Cataract Surgery
Within a couple of days of surgery, you will have your first follow-up appointment so we can evaluate your healing and vision. Make sure to review all your symptoms with your ophthalmologist during these appointments. Everyone’s recovery is different, and as your eyes heal it is very common for vision to be blurry or cloudy.
You will continue to use all prescribed eye drops and protective eyewear until advised otherwise by your doctor. To avoid complications or risk of infection, make sure to follow all aftercare instructions and attend your follow-up appointments.
Recovery Tips
- To manage pain take non-aspirin relievers
- Wear all protective eyewear while outside and sleeping
- Use all prescribed eye drops
- Avoid strenuous activity or contact sports
- Avoid eye make-up
The Weeks Following Cataract Surgery
Patients tend to experience a gradual improvement in their vision during the weeks following cataract surgery. At NeoVision Eye Center we encourage follow-up appointments through your entire recovery to ensure optimal results. Every patient’s healing process is different but in general, people experience full recovery within four to six weeks following cataract surgery.
Contact NeoVision Eye Center if You Experience Any of the Following
- Severe pain or discomfort
- Complete vision loss
- Impacts or injury to the eye
- Severe fluid discharge
- Vomiting
Learn More About Cataract Surgery Aftercare At NeoVision Eye Center
As a leading expert in cataract surgery, Dr. Tandon has been providing Bay Area patients with advanced care since 1997. At NeoVisions Eye Center we pride ourselves on providing our patients with the highest quality care through their entire vision correction journey. Take the first step towards complete vision correction, and schedule a free cataract screening today!
