Overview

Just like a camera lens focuses light to create a clear image, the lens in our eyes helps focus light onto the retina (the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye that helps us see) to create images that we could see. 

 When this natural lens of the eye becomes foggy or cloudy (opaque), you are unable to see clearly. This condition is known as Cataract. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cataracts are one of the leading causes of vision impairment and blindness globally.¹ When the natural lens of one or both the eyes is damaged due to build-up of fibre or breakdown of protein, often due to ageing, a cataract surgery is performed to remove the damaged lens of the eye and replace it with an artificial lens.²

This surgery becomes necessary to prevent complete loss of vision and post-operative care following the surgery is equally important for successful outcomes. In this article, we will explain how to care for the eyes after cataract surgery to ensure a smooth healing process and for the best results. 

Immediate post-operative care

Rest and recovery

Although cataract surgery is a quick procedure, allowing your eye(s) enough rest will help your vision recover more quickly. Plan to take a few days off after the surgery. Resume normal activities in the house (listening to the radio, dressing yourself, walking around the house) once you feel up for it. However, avoid any activity that involves bending, as this can increase the pressure in the eye(s) and may cause the artificial lens to shift out of place.

Everyone heals at their own pace, so it's hard to say exactly how long rest is needed. Generally, complete rest is recommended for the first 24 hours after surgery, followed by specific care and precautions for up to two weeks Full recovery may take between four to six weeks.³

Eye protection

You can go home on the same day after your surgery but you may have an eye patch and plastic shield covering your eye when you leave the hospital. This patch can be removed after one day after the surgery.

The sensation in the eye will be back within an hour or two and it may feel like something stuck in the eye, like an eyelash or sand particle, but do not try to touch or rub the eye as we normally try to. While the eye patch or shield protects your eye, do not try applying any pressure from the outside. 

Once you remove the eyepatch, wear wrap-around sunglasses to protect your treated eye from being accidentally touched or rubbed, as well as from dust and dirt. These sunglasses also help reduce brightness and light sensitivity. Alternatively, black or tinted shades can be used to limit the effect of light.

Medication and pain management

To prevent infection and support healing, your doctor will prescribe eye drops and explain how to use them. Make sure to start using the drops right away, exactly as prescribed. Stick to the recommended schedule and dosage, and always wash your hands before applying them. Use the drops only in the eye that was treated, and follow any handling instructions that come with the medication. Continue using the drops for as long as your doctor advises. Most eye drops include an anti-inflammatory (that reduces pain, redness and swelling) ingredient, however, if you experience pain, you can take over-the-counter painkillers.^4,5 If the pain continues or is accompanied by other difficulties, contact your doctor.

Activity restrictions

After cataract surgery, it's important to avoid strenuous activities such as bending, lifting heavy objects, or exercising, as these can increase pressure in the eye and cause pain or discomfort. These should be avoided for at least a week. Do not bathe or shower on the day of your surgery; you can shower the next day, but take care not to rub or touch your eye, and avoid getting it wet while washing your face. You can start reading a few days after the surgery, but avoid using your mobile phone or any screens for at least two days.

Monitoring recovery and long-term care tips

Stay in touch with your doctor and contact them immediately if you experience eye pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, vision disturbances, flashes, or any loss of vision. Attending follow-up appointments regularly for at least a year, or as advised by your doctor, is important to ensure proper healing and the success of the surgery.

Protecting your eyes from UV light is important—wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats can help when you're outdoors. Regular eye check-ups can detect any problems early on. Limiting screen time and using blue light filters can significantly reduce eye strain. Working in well-lit rooms also helps ease strain on the eyes. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy and balanced diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle all contribute to good eyesight. It's also important to manage diabetes, as it can increase the risk of developing cataracts.

Do’s and Don'ts after cataract surgery

DO’s

• Wear wraparound sunglasses
• Sleep on your side or back, wearing the eye shield as advised 
• Maintain a healthy diet and avoid sugary foods that spike blood glucose levels
• Apply eye drops as instructed by your doctor
• Visit your doctor for the follow-up appointment
• Contact your doctor immediately in case of severe pain, redness, swelling or discharge

DON’Ts

• Do not drive immediately after your surgery
• Do not rub your eyes
• Do not do any strenuous activities
• Do not swim or use a hot tub 
• Do not wear eye makeup
• Do not expose your eye directly to water or soap

FAQs

What is cataract surgery and what improves after the surgery?

Cataract surgery is the surgery of the eye that removes the damaged natural lens of the eye and is replaced by an artificial lens. This surgery is done to prevent complete loss of vision.

What is the immediate post-operative care for cataract surgery?

Do not remove the eye-patch for one day and take complete rest on the day following the cataract surgery. Use the eye shield while napping or sleeping for at least one week post-surgery.

What is the fastest way to recover from cataract surgery?

By giving your body and eye ample rest post-surgery, avoiding strenuous activities for a few days and keeping your eye free of dirt and dust.

How many days rest is needed after cataract surgery?

It differs from person to person, but the complete recovery takes anywhere between 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery.

Summary

Cataract surgery is the most common eye surgery with quick recovery. However, as with any surgery, proper post-operative care is important for healing and recovery. By following all the care tips and applying eye drops as prescribed by your doctor, you will recover faster and can get back to your routine quickly.