What Patients Should Know About Cataract Surgery Recovery
Cataract surgery is a common procedure for many people as they get older. Even though it's generally common, many people are unclear as to what the procedure entails, how it's performed, and what to expect in the aftermath of surgery. Our team of skilled Wilmington ophthalmologists would like to take a few moments right now to go over the basics of cataract surgery recovery. This should give you a good general overview of what to expect from treatment.
About Cataracts and Cataract Surgery
First of all, let's briefly discuss cataracts and cataract surgery. Cataracts refer to the clouding of the natural lens of the eye. This can occur as a result of UV radiation exposure, eye injuries, diabetes, and steroid use. Cataract surgery will involve the removal of the clouded lens of the eye and replacing it with an intraocular lens (IOL). This artificial lens will help restore overall vision quality.
What to Expect Right After Cataract Surgery
Right after Wilmington cataract surgery, it's not uncommon for patients to feel lightheaded or tired, and they will also notice acute sensitivity to light. You may stay in the eye care enter for a brief time to rest and go over a few basics with your surgeon. As a safety precaution, patients won't be permitted to drive for the first day after cataract surgery, so a loved one will need to provide transportation to and from the eye care center.
While patients can engage in light activity after cataract surgery (watching television, reading, browsing the internet), we usually recommend that patients simply get some rest.
Basic Tips for Cataract Surgery Recovery
Below are a few basic tips for the first days and weeks of cataract surgery recovery. Our eye surgeons and doctors in Wilmington will provide all patients with detailed information about the recovery process during the consultation.
- Avoid touching, rubbing, or putting pressure on the eyes
- When outdoors or near bright lights, patients should wear sunglasses with UV protection
- When showering or bathing, patients must avoid getting water in their eyes
- Avoid using eye makeup or creams around the eyes for at least one week to prevent infection and irritation
- Patients should wear their protective eye shield when they sleep to avoid unconsciously rubbing their eyes at night
- Patients should take any medications/use eye drops as instructed
- Be sure to contact the practice immediately in case of any pressing/urgent concerns
How long will it take to heal from cataract surgery?
While most patients will be up and about and fine the day after cataract surgery, the full healing period for the eyes will take around two to three months. By the end of that period, your eyesight should be clear and stable.
We recommend that even after you have healed from cataract surgery that you continue to wear sunglasses with UV protection when out in the sun and protective eye wear when playing sports or engaging in activities that may result in eye injury.
Learn More About Your Options for Eye Care Treatment
For more information about cataract surgery and how it can be of benefit to you, be sure to contact our Wilmington ophthalmologists and optometrists today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you make the best possible choices about vision correction and eye health.