Recovery From Cataract Surgery

Cataracts are the main cause of vision loss in people ages 55 and older. This condition causes a clouding of the lens in the eye that results in blurry vision. Generally, cataract is associated with age and occurs when old cells in the eye die and accumulate, causing a wall in front of the lens. However, other conditions can trigger the growth of cataracts, such as diabetes and alcoholism. In many cases a surgical procedure can be performed to remove the cataract from the eye. As with most surgeries, recovery takes place in stages.

Immediately After Surgery

• Immediately following the surgical procedure, many patients feel extremely groggy. This is not from the procedure itself, but rather from the anesthesia administered in order to perform the procedure. You will not be able to see immediately following the procedure, and should prepare beforehand to have a caretaker provide you a ride home as well as fill your prescriptions for eye drops and any other necessary medications. During the first days home the surgical area may itch slightly, but you must avoid rubbing the eye, removing any dressing that has been put on the eye, or coming in direct contact with the eye.

The Day After Surgery

• The day after surgery, it is recommended that you avoid driving. You should make this a day of rest, while slowly beginning to resume your normal daily activities such as walking, reading, and watching television. Patients have reported that the day after surgery they feel the sensation of scratchiness or grittiness in their eye. They also report that lights seem to have a halo effect. Both of these conditions are common following this type of surgery, and both should dissipate within the matter of a couple of days. These side effects should become less and less an issue as the eye continues to adjust. Eye drops should be used as prescribed, and you should avoid touching the eye. You should also ensure that nothing gets in the eye, even water, to reduce the chance of infection. Finally, make sure to wear a protective eye covering at night to avoid bumping the eye or rubbing it in your sleep. When possible, it is recommended that you attempt to sleep on the side that your surgery was not performed on.

Within the Year

• Gradually, from month to month, your vision will improve. If you received lens implants at time of surgery to correct vision issues, your eyes will continue to adjust slowly as your brain gets used to receiving these new signals from your corrected eyes. By six months after the surgery, your daily routine and vision should be relatively back to normal. It is imperative, however, to realize that cataract surgery is not a permanent fix. If you have other underlying health issues that have caused your cataracts to form in the first place you should follow the strict eye care schedule recommended by your doctor. It is possible for cataracts to return, and if not treated quickly and properly, blindness can be the end result.