Cataract surgery is a safe and effective way to restore vision after cataracts have developed in one or both eyes. Cataract removal surgery is usually recommended if vision loss prevents you from performing normal activities.
During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens. The surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis and takes less than 20 minutes, although patients should plan to spend about two and a half hours total in the Eye Center.
Surgery does not involve an extensive recovery time, but because each patient is different, the healing process takes longer than others.
Although the eyes do not hurt, patients may experience temporary increased sensitivity to light and blurred vision. It may also take time for your eyes to adjust after you remove the protective shield before you have clear vision. This adjustment period is a completely normal part of the recovery process. There is usually a follow-up appointment with the ophthalmologist the next day to make sure there are no complications with the procedure.
What to expect after cataract surgery?
It is normal for the operated eye to feel blurry, sensitive to light, gritty, or itchy for hours to several days. Vision often clears slowly, but it can also become clear within a day. Everyone heals differently and the eyes often heal differently from each other.
Patients can eat whatever they want after surgery, but should not drink alcohol for 24 hours, as this can interact with the anesthetic medications received during surgery.
Patients must wear a plastic shield, which is provided on the day of surgery, when sleeping or lying down for the first 3 days/nights after surgery. Likewise, it is recommended:
- Lubricate the eyes as many times as necessary if burning or itching occurs.
- Do not apply pressure or rub your eyes for 2 weeks.
- Gently wipe any eye drop residue from the eyelashes or the corner of the eyes with a clean tissue.
- Avoid makeup for 1 or 2 weeks.
- Face cream can be used after surgery, but should be avoided around the eye.
- Bathe or shower from the neck down for the first 3 days. Afterwards, the hair can be washed, preventing soap or water from entering the operated eye for 2 weeks.
- Light activities can be done: e.g. eg, walking, reading, cooking, watching television.
- You can bend over, look down, tie your shoelaces, and sleep on the side you want.
- Extensive activities such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2 weeks.
- Activities that raise dust or involve dirt should be avoided for 2 weeks, such as gardening and home renovations.
- Do not swim or dive underwater for 1 month.
- Driving should be avoided for 1 to 2 days or longer if vision remains blurred.
- It is recommended to wear sunglasses outdoors for at least 1 week to protect yourself and because the eyes may be sensitive to bright lights.
El Dr. Humberto Carreras, medical director of Vithas Eurocanarias Ophthalmological Institute, explains in this video what care should be taken after cataract surgery.
