Are you undergoing cataract surgery to remove your cataracts and restore your vision? Knowing what to expect during recovery can help you feel more at ease and approach the procedure with confidence.
Keep reading to learn more about the recovery time for cataract surgery and how to make the most out of your recovery.
What Happens During Cataract Surgery?
When cataracts start to interfere with your routine activities, your ophthalmologist may recommend cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is a quick and straightforward procedure that involves removing the cloudy natural lens of your eye and replacing it with a clear intraocular lens or IOL.
The new IOL will allow you to see clearly again, prevent cataracts from redeveloping, and some even correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
What’s the Recovery Timeline for Cataract Surgery?
The recovery time for cataract surgery tends to vary from patient to patient. However, here’s an overview of what to expect during your recovery process:
First 24 to 48 hours
After cataract surgery, your eye doctor will monitor you in the recovery area for a short time. You will go home the same day, but you’ll need someone to drive you.
Before leaving, your cataract surgeon will provide detailed post-operative care instructions. Follow all the instructions to optimize your recovery time and ensure your eye stays healthy.
Immediately after your cataract procedure, you might notice an improvement in your vision, although it may still be hazy or blurry. This is common as your eye heals and should gradually improve within 48 hours.
Your cataract surgeon will place a protective shield over the treated eye and instruct you to wear it while sleeping and napping for the first week following your procedure. The shield will keep you from unintentionally rubbing your eye.
They’ll also prescribe anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops to prevent inflammation and infection. You might experience some redness, light sensitivity, mild discomfort, itching, and a gritty sensation, which is normal and should subside within one to two days.
You’ll likely be scheduled for a follow-up appointment the next day so your cataract surgeon can ensure your eye is healing properly. Patients typically resume work within a few days to a week, depending on the speed of their recovery and the nature of their job.
First Week
Many patients return to light activities after one week of healing, but it’s crucial to avoid bending over, doing intense exercises, and lifting heavy items, which could increase your eye pressure. Equally important, avoid swimming, hot tubs, and getting water in your eyes to prevent complications.
To avoid irritation, you should also steer clear of face creams and eye makeup. By the end of the first week, many patients notice a considerable improvement in their vision.
First Month
Within a month, your vision will significantly improve. As your new IOL continues to settle, colors will appear brighter, and images will be clearer and sharper.
You should be able to resume most of your regular activities by this time. However, your cataract surgeon may still recommend avoiding certain activities that exert pressure on your eyes.
You may be due for another follow-up appointment at this time so that your cataract surgeon can check your progress and address any concerns you might have.
Two to Three Months
Many patients achieve complete recovery within five to six weeks, but vision stabilization can take three to six months. At this point, you’ll likely be able to return to all your activities.
Reclaim Your Vision
Cataract surgery at Stahl Eyecare Experts is a life-changing procedure that can restore your vision and enhance your quality of life. If you’re considering cataract surgery, our top-rated eye doctors will be happy to answer any questions you may have to alleviate your concerns.
Are cataracts making it challenging to perform routine, daily activities? Schedule an appointment at Stahl Eyecare Experts in Manhattan, NY, today to determine if it’s time for cataract surgery.
