How long does it take to feel normal after cataract surgery?

These side effects usually improve within a few days, but it can take 4 to 6 weeks to recover fully. If you need new glasses, you will not be able to order them until your eye has completely healed, usually after 6 weeks.


How long after cataract surgery does your eye feel normal?

Your eye will feel normal again 24 hours after surgery. However, your sensitivity to light may persist for a few more days. It will take four to six weeks for your eye to fully heal.

How long does it take for cataract surgery to settle down?

Cataract surgery involves replacing the cloudy lens inside your eye with an artificial one. It has a high success rate in improving your eyesight. It can take 2 to 6 weeks to fully recover from cataract surgery.


How much rest is needed after cataract surgery?

Plan on taking one to three days off of work to be sure you have enough time to rest, but it is normal to resume most normal activities within a couple of days. Simple diversions like reading, watching TV, writing, and walking are okay to resume as soon as you feel up for it after your eye surgery.

What is the fastest way to recover from cataract surgery?

Allen Eghrari, ophthalmologist with the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine outlines five helpful tips to remember each day while recovering from cataract surgery.
  1. Limit Strenuous Activity. ...
  2. Shield Yourself from Irritants or Trauma. ...
  3. Keep Out of the Pool, and Shower Carefully. ...
  4. Avoid Driving. ...
  5. Follow Doctor's Orders.


Cataract Surgery - How Long is the Recovery Time? | Foulkes Vision



How do most people feel after cataract surgery?

After surgery, your eye may feel scratchy, sticky, or uncomfortable. It may also water more than usual. Most people see better 1 to 3 days after surgery. But it could take 3 to 10 weeks to get the full benefits of surgery and to see as clearly as possible.

What are the most common problems after cataract surgery?

These include discomfort, bruising and swelling of the eyelid, increased intraocular pressure, and allergic reaction to the steroid or antibiotic drop. These complications are monitored over time following surgery.

Should you rest your eyes after cataract surgery?

Rest as much as you can. We even encourage patients to take a nap when they get home, if possible. If you notice bruising around your eye from the anesthesia, or popped blood vessels from the pressure your eyes experienced, do not worry. Both of these side effects should fade within a few days.


What happens if you accidentally bend over after cataract surgery?

What Happens if You Bend Over After Cataract Surgery? You should not bend over after cataract surgery for at least 2 weeks. Bending over will place pressure on the eye and this may cause unnecessary complications to your eye. The main complication will be a delay in the healing process.

How far can you bend over after cataract surgery?

In general, you may bend as low as your hips. Avoid bending so low that your head is below your waist, for about one week, unless otherwise advised by your doctor.

What not to do after cataract surgery?

7 Things Not To Do After Cataract Surgery
  1. Drive. You shouldn't drive at least 24 hours after cataract surgery. ...
  2. Wear Makeup. Makeup is full of bacteria! ...
  3. Perform Any Strenuous Activity. Until your surgeon says you can stick to light activity only. ...
  4. Go Near Dusty Areas. ...
  5. Swim. ...
  6. Forget To Wear Sunglasses Outside. ...
  7. Rub Your Eye.


How do you know if your cataract surgery went wrong?

You might feel sensitive to light or have pain, redness, and vision problems. If this happens to you, call your doctor right away. Infections after cataract surgery are rare, but if you have one, you'll get a shot of antibiotics into your eye.

What are common side effects of cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery risks include:
  • Inflammation.
  • Infection.
  • Bleeding.
  • Swelling.
  • Drooping eyelid.
  • Dislocation of artificial lens.
  • Retinal detachment.
  • Glaucoma.


How do I know if my lens has moved after cataract surgery?

What Are the Symptoms of a Dislocated Lens? The most common symptom of a dislocated intraocular lens implant is sudden, painless blurring of vision in one eye. The vision tends to be very blurry, but not blacked-out. Sometimes, the lens implant can be seen resting on the surface of the retina when laying on the back.


Can you see out of your eye during cataract surgery?

During cataract surgery

You'll be awake during surgery, but you won't be able to see what's happening in your eye.

How do they keep your head still during cataract surgery?

Tape the patient's head to the operating room table before starting the surgery. I use paper tape to gently hold the patient's head in place during the procedure. Place it over the forehead and use a tape that is gentle and will not damage delicate skin.

What happens if you lift over 10 lbs after cataract surgery?

Don't lift heavy objects for the first two weeks after surgery. Strenuous activity (like lifting something) can increase your eye pressure levels. Elevated intraocular pressure is one of the most frequent complications for patients that have cataract surgery.


How soon can I sleep on my side after cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery should not affect how you sleep, aside from wearing the protective eye shield to avoid rubbing the eye. Rubbing your eye or even water splashing in your eye can aggravate the chances of infection. You may also want to avoid sleeping on the side of the operated eye for the first 24 hours.

Why can't you drink water before cataract surgery?

So why do you need to fast? Fasting before cataract eye surgery reduces the risk of stomach contents/acid going the wrong way down into your lungs while you are asleep.

What I wish I knew before cataract surgery?

Here are some things that you may want to avoid before and after cataract surgery to ensure that you heal properly. Avoiding eating and drinking before your surgery. Don't wear makeup to the surgery appointment, and avoid wearing makeup until your ophthalmologist allows it so that you can better prevent infection.


Can I brush my teeth before cataract surgery?

Yes, it is ok to brush your teeth prior to cataract surgery. If you have been asked to fast prior to the surgery, you should use as little water as possible and try to not drink anything during or after brushing your teeth.

Can I go for a walk after cataract surgery?

In general, it's safe to do light exercise the first week after cataract surgery. This includes walking and stretching without bending at the waist. By the second week, you can resume moderate-intensity activity. At 4 to 6 weeks, you should be fully healed.

How much TV should I watch after cataract surgery?

Several hours following the surgery, most patients are able to watch some television or look at a computer screen for a short period of time. It's important however that you don't over-exert your eyes during the first 24 hours post-surgery. You can expect to return to most normal activities during the first week.


When can you wash your face after cataract surgery?

Washing Your Face and Hygiene after Cataract Surgery

You can resume activities such as washing your face the day after surgery, as long as you are careful to not touch the eye. You shouldn't splash water directly on your face and instead, use a washcloth to carefully clean.

How long to wear eye shield at night after cataract surgery?

take it easy for the first 2 to 3 days. use your eye shield at night for at least a week. take painkillers if you need to. bathe or shower yourself as usual.