Cataract Surgery Recovery Time: What to Expect Post-Procedure

Cataracts are incredibly common in people over 65. Nearly one in three people will develop a cataract later in life, and many of those will opt for cataract surgery.

Fortunately, cataracts are very treatable. Cataract surgery is one of the most common eye procedures worldwide, with more than 15 million treatments done each year. It has a very high success rate with a minimum risk of complications. Additionally, the recovery time from cataract surgery is only a few weeks.

If you have decided to have your cataracts treated at Clearview Vision Institute, restored vision is in your near future. Please refer to this guide to learn more about what you can expect post-procedure and how to best care for your healing eyes.

Understanding Cataract Surgery Recovery Time

How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?

The recovery time for cataract surgery is relatively short, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in their vision within a few days. Full recovery typically takes between 3–4 weeks.

However, every patient is different. Cataract eye surgery recovery time varies from person to person, so don’t be alarmed if your vision still seems cloudy, blurry, or distorted after removing your eye shield. In some cases, it can take several weeks to notice notable vision improvements.

Many factors affect your cataract surgery recovery time. These factors include age, overall health, the severity of the cataract, any pre-existing eye conditions, and the type of cataract surgery that was performed.

Follow-up Appointments

After your surgery, it’s very important to attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon. The first is typically scheduled the day after the procedure to ensure there are no complications. We will continue to monitor your progress over the coming weeks, making sure that your eyes are healing properly.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Fortunately, cataract eye surgery is extremely safe, and complications are rare. Nevertheless, please contact us immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Severe pain in the eye
• Increased redness
• A significant decrease in vision
• Signs of infection (such as pus or swelling)
• Increased sensitivity to light

What to Expect Post-Procedure

During your recovery time for cataract surgery, you must follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions closely. This sets you up for optimal healing and clear vision without complications. If you have any questions regarding your aftercare instructions, please contact us.

Immediately After

A typical cataract surgery is a relatively quick procedure, completed in a single appointment. The surgery itself usually takes a brief 15 to 20 minutes per eye, with additional time scheduled for preoperative preparation and post-operative instructions.

You will spend a short time in the recovery area so that we can monitor you immediately after your surgery. We want you to feel comfortable before leaving our facility. Right after cataract surgery, it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort, sensitivity to light, and blurry vision.

Days After

Your vision may remain blurry or hazy for 48 hours post-surgery. Additionally, your eye may appear red, or the eyelid may be swollen for these first few days. Light sensitivity and a scratchy, gritting feeling in the eye are also normal.

To protect your eye while you sleep, you will be given an eye patch or protective shield to wear. This prevents you from rubbing your eye accidentally.

Some patients experience mild discomfort and headaches for a day or two after surgery. Taking Tylenol or Advil can help.

Most people experience improved vision within a few days, although everyone’s healing process is unique to them. Your eye needs time to heal and adjust, so try to be patient.

1–2 Weeks After

As your eye heals, your vision continues to improve. You should notice a clear improvement in your vision after the first week or two. However, it may take several weeks for your vision to stabilize fully and for your eye to feel comfortable.

Even as your vision improves, you need to continue using the eye drops prescribed to you by your surgeon. These help ensure optimal healing by reducing inflammation and preventing infection during this crucial time.

3–4 Weeks After

Complete vision adjustments usually occur by three weeks after surgery. Until that time, you must follow the aftercare plan carefully. This includes refraining from certain activities like heavy lifting and strenuous exercise that can put excessive strain on your eyes. After 5–6 weeks, you should be able to participate in your regular, day-to-day activities.

4 Tips for a Smooth Recovery

1. Wear an eye shield or protective patch. It’s extremely important to protect your eye as it heals, particularly in the initial stages. Consequently, your surgeon will recommend an eye shield or protective patch. Wear this while you sleep for the first three days/nights after surgery to prevent accidentally injuring your healing eye.
2. Use prescribed eye drops. Your surgeon will also prescribe eye drops and explain how to use them properly. These prevent infection, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with proper eye drop application. Pull down your lower eyelid, look up, and place a drop in the small pocket created by the lid.
3. Wear protective eyewear. Night isn’t the only time when your eyes need protection. You also need to protect them during the day. Post-cataract surgery, you will likely experience some sensitivity to light. Wearing sunglasses shields your eyes from bright sunlight, minimizing any discomfort. You should also wear protective eyewear in dusty environments, since airborne allergens can irritate your eyes.
4. Follow your surgeon’s instructions. In addition to prescribing eye drops and recommending an eye shield, your surgeon provides detailed aftercare instructions. These include what activities to avoid, other best practices, when to visit us for follow-up appointments, and tips for minimizing discomfort. Following these instructions is vital for a swift and full recovery.

4 Things to Avoid During Recovery from Cataract Surgery

1. Limit strenuous activity. You must avoid vigorous exercise and other strenuous activities (including lifting heavy objects) for at least two weeks after surgery. Some activities, including rough contact sports, must be avoided for at least four weeks or until your surgeon tells you it is safe to do so.
2. Shower carefully and do not swim. Exposing your eyes to water puts them at risk of infection or irritation. You should wait at least one day before showering and washing your hair. Be very careful not to get soap or water in the eye for at least one week. Swimming, going in a hot tub, or submerging your head in water must be avoided for at least three weeks.
3. Do not drive for 1–2 days. Your surgeon will let you know exactly when you can safely resume driving based on your recovery. In most cases, patients are able to start driving again after a day or two.
4. Do not wear eye makeup for at least one week. During the initial healing phase, it’s critically important to reduce your risk of infection. Consequently, you must not wear eye makeup for at least one week following surgery. Powder makeup should also be avoided, as the dust particles can irritate your eyes. You may use face creams and cream-based facial makeup, but avoid the area around your eyes.

Restore Your Vision With Cataract Treatment in Toronto

Clearview Vision Institute offers cataract surgery to restore your vision. We begin by assessing if you are a good candidate by learning about your medical history and examining the condition of your eyes.

Then, you will have a detailed consultation with our ophthalmologist to discuss and choose the best treatment option to remove your cataract. You can start the process today by filling out our online questionnaire.

To request more information on cataract treatment in Toronto, call Clearview Vision Institute today at 647-493-6371 or contact us here.