If you need to get cataract surgery for blurred vision, you’re not alone. Research suggests that cataracts are the leading cause of blindness, and cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed procedures worldwide. Modesto cataract surgery is a minor surgery but you may still be nervous. And the most important aspect of any surgical procedure is the recovery. How long does it take to recover from a cataract surgery? Well, read this informative blog to find out! 

How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?

Every individual is different with different rates of healing and recovery. Usually, recovery post cataract surgery takes 4 to 8 weeks which depends on various factors. 

A few points to remember:

  • Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure.
  • You will be kept under observation for an hour before your eye surgeon allows you to go home.
  • You would be prescribed eye drops for proper healing, and to prevent any unwanted post-op complications.
  • Ask someone to drive you back home, since you would be in a sedative state with blurred vision. This makes it difficult for you to drive.
  • Follow your surgeon’s instructions after you arrive home.

Recovery timeline

1 to 3 days

  • In the first 24 to 48 hours post-surgery, you are likely to experience blurred vision, mild pain, discomfort and pricking sensation, and redness around your eye.
  • You may have an urge to rub your eyes since you may have a feeling of a foreign body in your eyes. Do not rub or massage your eyes.
  • Proper rest for 6 to 8 hours is very important because this is a crucial time for the recovery process.
  • Begin the following eye drops prescribed by your surgeon:
    • Antibiotics: to prevent infections
    • Steroids: to prevent inflammation
    • Lubricating: to prevent dryness of your eye
    • Anti-inflammatory: to prevent swelling and inflammation
  • You may also be prescribed oral antibiotics.
  • Avoid excess screen time (using the phone, watching TV), or reading for the initial 48 hours.
  • You are likely to have a clear vision by the next day of the surgery. 
  • You would be scheduled for a post-op follow-up appointment with your surgeon the next day.
  • Your surgeon will examine your eyes to check the IOL placed and will evaluate your vision.

1 to 3 weeks

  • You should be able to see clearly and have reduced inflammation.
  • You should no longer experience pain, discomfort, or itchiness. 
  • 1 to 2 weeks after your surgery, you will have your second post-op follow-up appointment.
  • Your surgeon will evaluate your eye to determine whether you need to continue antibiotic eye drops.
  • If you are prescribed steroid eye drops, it should begin to gradually taper.
  • You are likely to resume some of your daily routine activities.

1 month and beyond

  • You will no longer experience any pain, inflammation, redness, or itching.
  • You would begin to see clearly now.
  • You may perform certain moderate exercises.
  • You would be scheduled for your follow-up appointments at 4 to 6 weeks, and around 8 weeks. 

When to seek emergency help after cataract surgery?

Every surgery brings a set of risks that might require emergency medical attention. Call your surgeon for an immediate appointment or visit an emergency room if you experience post-cataract surgery:

  • Light flashes that are sudden
  • Vision obstruction that feels like a dark curtain in front of your eyes
  • Loss of peripheral vision
  • Persistent eye pain even after taking pain medication or drops
  • Severe reddened eyes
  • Vision loss

Takeaway 

Post-operative recovery is an important aspect of any surgical procedure. Following your surgeon’s post-op instructions will help you recover faster and prevent complications. The recovery time and process may differ from one patient to another. Cataract surgery is a safe and painless procedure, however, it is important to comply with your surgeon’s treatment regimen and advice to help the recovery process go smoothly.