What to Expect during Cataract Surgery Recovery By Walter Choate on May 02, 2015

For many people, cataracts can be a blessing in disguise. If left untreated, cataracts are extremely dangerous; worldwide, cataracts are the leading cause of blindness. However, modern cataract surgery has one of the most impressive safety profiles and records of success of any surgical procedure in the history of medicine, and patients who have their natural lenses replaced with multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) often emerge from surgery with better vision than they’ve had in decades, if not ever. It is possible for a patient to go from having clouded, dim vision to the best vision he or she has ever had, and it is all thanks to modern cataract surgery and IOL technology.

Of course, any surgical procedure comes with risks, side effects, and a recovery period, and at Choate eye Associates, we strive to educate our patients about every aspect of cataract surgery before they commit to undergoing the procedure. While it is true that cataract surgery is the only solution to cataracts, we still feel that patients should be able to make an informed decision about whether to proceed with surgery. We also want patients to understand exactly what to expect during cataract surgery recovery. During consultations at our Nashville office, we explain the recovery process in detail and take the time to answer questions and address concerns that patients may have about cataract surgery recovery.

The Healing Period

On the day of your surgery, you will have to arrange to have someone drive you home from your appointment, as your eyes will need time to adjust to your new IOLs. Nevertheless, you will be allowed to return home about an hour after your surgery.

Immediately after your surgery, we will place drops in your eyes to prevent infection and minimize swelling. We will prescribe eye drops that you will have to use as instructed in order to prevent infection, which is a possible risk of any surgery.

During your recovery period, you may experience burning or stinging sensations or the feeling as though there is a foreign object or sand in your eye. It is absolutely essential to proper healing that you do not rub or scratch your eyes under any circumstances. These side effects will subside as long as you use all medications as prescribed and diligently follow all post-surgical instructions. We will provide you with an eye shield to help prevent accidental rubbing of your eyes, especially during sleep. The number-one cause of complications after cataract surgery is the failure to follow post-surgical instructions.

In the days after your cataract surgery, you will be encouraged to do some light walking and exercise your vision by watching television and reading. You will notice an improvement both in the clarity and the quality of your vision during this time. Within weeks, your vision should be vastly improved, and within two to four months, you should achieve optimal vision.