Cataracts, or the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, maybe a natural part of aging, but that doesn’t mean you’re helpless to stop it. Cataract surgery is proven to eliminate your cloudy vision and restore near-normal eyesight after a brief cataract surgery recovery time. Here’s more on what to expect after cataract surgery and the post-op care tips you need to heal as quickly as possible.
What is the Cataract Surgery Recovery Time?
While everyone heals at a different pace, most patients completely recover from cataract surgery within two to three months. Having said that, you can expect to enjoy a better vision after just a few days. Your eyesight may fluctuate a bit for several weeks, so your optometrist will wait to update your eyewear prescription until it stabilizes.
Also, be aware that cataract surgery is performed one eye at a time. This ensures the first eye responds well and eases the recovery process. The surgeries are typically scheduled one to two weeks apart.
What Happens After Cataract Surgery?
At the completion of your operation, your surgeon will attach a lightweight protective shield over your eye with surgical tape. You’ll wear this along with dark sunglasses to protect your eye from inadvertent rubbing, accidental bumping, and sun exposure.
Arrange to have someone drive you home from cataract surgery. You can resume light activities right away, including reading, walking, and watching TV. It’s okay to bathe or shower like normal, but make sure you don’t let water get in your eyes.
Itching, light sensitivity, and mild discomfort are normal within the first 24 hours. You may also experience vision fluctuations, glare, and halo around lights. Avoid rubbing or putting pressure on your eye to help it heal faster. Also, apply medicated eye drops and artificial tears as directed to reduce the risk of infection and keep your eye moist. In addition, plan to wear the protective shield over your eye while you sleep for the next week.
Will I Need Follow-Up Visits After Cataract Surgery?
Yes. You should schedule your first follow-up for the day after surgery. The ophthalmologist who performed your operation will check your progress, answer your questions, and provide further post-op instructions as needed.
You can also expect a one-week follow-up appointment, by which time you should be able to resume driving. At your final follow-up a few weeks later, you’ll receive a new eyewear prescription, provided your vision has stabilized.
If you detect cataract symptoms returning at any point, tell your eye doctor. You may have a condition called secondary cataracts. Fortunately, restoring clear eyesight is possible with a simple laser procedure.
Schedule a Consultation for Cataract Surgery
The Arvada Vision & Eye Clinic team has the knowledge and technology to detect and diagnose cataracts. We can then co-manage your cataract surgery recovery with the best team of surgeons in Northern Colorado. With help from qualified and experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists, you’ll be well on your way to seeing clearly again! To get started, please contact us today.