Recovering from cataract surgery: Your expert guide

In this informative article, highly respected consultant ophthalmic surgeon Mr Sameer Trikha gives detailed insight on what to expect following cataract surgery. The leading specialist details potential side effects to be aware of, which activities to avoid during recovery, and timescales for returning to driving and sports activities.

What is the expected recovery period for cataract surgery?

Most patients experience some light sensitivity and scratchiness for the first day or two after cataract surgery. Occasionally there can be some discomfort but there should not be significant pain. Generally, vision should improve significantly in the first few days after surgery and full recovery occurs within 4-6 weeks. Most patients can resume work and normal activities after one week.

What are the potential side effects of cataract surgery?

Occasionally patients can experience visual phenomena after cataract surgery, such as glare, haloes around lights and starbursts. This is related to the artificial intraocular lens implant that is inserted when the cataract was removed. The risks of visual phenomena are very low (less than one per cent with a standard distance lens) but vary slightly depend upon the choice of lens implant inserted.

What activities should I avoid during recovery?

I advise my patients not to shower for the first 24-36 in order to avoid getting any dirty water in the eye. Avoid heavy lifting and bending for two weeks.

How long will I need to wear an eye patch after cataract surgery?

Generally, if a local anaesthetic injection is used an eye patch can be taken off after 4 hours. In most instances I use eye drop anaesthetic however, and so patients do not need an eye patch. Instead, an eye shield is used. I usually advocate the use of the eye shield at night for 7 nights to protect the operated eye when sleeping.

When can I return to driving (or any other activity) after cataract surgery?

Generally patients should be able to drive after 48-72 hours, but this does depend on previous eye history. Swimming can be resumed in 6 weeks, and lifting weights after 4 weeks.

If you require cataract surgery and wish to schedule an appointment with Mr Trikha, visit his Top Doctors profile today.