Millions of people undergo cataract surgery every year, making it the most frequently performed operation in the US. This eye surgery corrects the natural effects of aging, restoring clear eyesight that should last the rest of your life. Just be aware that the results are not instant—you must give your eyes time to heal before you can expect to see clearly again.
When Will Vision Clear Up After Cataract Surgery?
The blurry or hazy vision immediately after cataract surgery is a common concern for many people. However, this is completely normal and may last for a day or two. As your eyes heal, your eyesight should continue to improve. The recovery process may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on these factors:
- Age: In general, a 60-year-old will heal faster from cataract surgery than an 85-year-old.
- Density of your cataract: A mild, newly formed cataract is easier to remove than a thick, dense cataract that has progressively worsened over many years.
- Overall health: Someone in good health is likely to recover faster than someone with diabetes, heart disease, or other chronic conditions.
- Surgical technique: Modern advancements in cataract surgery allow ophthalmologists to use lasers instead of scalpels to replace the clouded lens in your eye. FDA-cleared bladeless laser cataract surgery involves no sutures, no blood, no pain, and possibly no eye drops. The entire procedure takes 10 minutes, and there’s no need to stay overnight in the hospital. More precise incisions lead to faster recovery times and better long-term results.
How to Speed Up the Recovery Process After Cataract Surgery
While laser cataract surgery is faster and less invasive than traditional surgery, you should still take time off to relax and recover at home. Here’s what to do:
- Arrange to have a family member drive you home after surgery.
- Do not place any pressure on your eyes.
- Protect your eyes from dust, pollen, and other irritants.
- Avoid heavy lifting for one week.
- Stay out of swimming pools and hot tubs for two weeks.
- Apply lubricating and antibiotic eye drops as prescribed.
- Attend your follow-up appointment to make sure your eyes are healing as expected.
Have the Right Expectations After Cataract Surgery
Once your eyes have fully healed, your vision should be better than it was before your cataracts developed. After all, a new intraocular lens (IOL) doesn’t just get rid of your cloudy vision—it also fixes the refractive errors in your eye. Work closely with your ophthalmologist to choose the right type of IOL based on your personal health and long-term vision goals.
Schedule a Cataract Screening at Snead Eye Group
The vision specialists at Snead Eye Group are ready to help you see clearly again! For more information about cataract surgery or to schedule an appointment, please call (239) 936-8686. We have four convenient locations in Fort Myers, Naples, Bonita Springs, and Cape Coral, FL, to better serve you.