What can I expect after cataract surgery?

Find out what to expect after cataract surgery and which activities you temporarily might not be able to do.

Cataract removal is considered a minor surgery and you’ll likely be home within a couple of hours. The operation is painless and only lasts a few minutes. After the surgery, you’ll need a ride home, so arrange for transportation.

Here are some guidelines to follow that could help you avoid complications and promote healing.

• Blurred vision
• Glare or halos around lights
• Dilated pupils
• Slight discomfort of feeling something in the eye, like dust
• Itching and sensitivity
• Bloodshot eyes

• Rest
• Use drops as directed by your physician (respect the dosage)
• Remove the bandage at the proper time according to the doctor’s instructions (do not replace it)
• Wear your protective eye shield while sleeping during the first week
• Take acetaminophen if you feel pain or soreness
• Use a clean washcloth soaked in sterilized water to relieve itching
• Wash your hands frequently
• Protect your eyes if you need to wash your hair to avoid getting water or shampoo in them

• Do not drive (ask your doctor when it will be ok to drive again)
• Do not leave the house (especially during the first 24 hours)
• Do not strain yourself or engage in strenuous activity for the first week
• Do not put pressure on the eye by tilting the head down
• Avoid sexual activity two weeks after the surgery
• Do not dye your hair or get a perm
• Avoid rubbing your eyes
• Do not wear eye makeup
• Avoid irritants such as dust and pet fur

Activities you can do:

• Eat normally and take your medications as usual
• Enjoy daily activities such as bathing, dressing, light housekeeping, etc.
• Watch TV
• Walking
• Reading
• Cooking

• If your vision gets worse instead of better during the post-operative days
• Increasing pain
• Swelling
• Redness (other than temporarily bloodshot eyes)

If you have any of these symptoms, contact your doctor.

Temporary side effects should only last a few days, and you’ll see your vision quickly improve. It’s crucial to follow doctor's orders and to show up for your follow-up appointments.

Recovery from cataract surgery can be quick and simple, provided you take good care of yourself.