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Tips For Successful Cataract Surgery Recovery

15 June 2015 by Joann Dunn

One of the most common vision problems plaguing older adults is cataract development. The cloudy, hazy vision pockets can make it difficult to maneuver through daily life safely. If your eye doctor has recommended that you seek surgery for your cataracts, you may be nervous about the prospect. After all, surgery on your eyes is a significant process. Here's a look at what you need to know about cataract surgery and how to ensure the best chances of success.

General Surgery Tips

In most cases, cataract surgery is quick, uncomplicated, and done as an outpatient procedure. You'll probably stay in the doctor's office for a little while after the surgery, at least until you recover from the anesthesia. In most cases, this only takes an hour or two.

Since you're going to have anesthesia and your eyes will need to recover after surgery, it's also in your best interest to have someone there to bring you home. In fact, most doctors require that you have someone with you before you can be discharged. If your eye doctor gives you protective sunglasses, make sure you wear them on the way home to protect your eyes from the damage of bright light.

Basic Recovery Expectations

It can be several days after cataract surgery before your vision starts to completely clear up. In the meantime, you'll probably notice blurry and cloudy vision once you're able to remove the shield from your eye. Don't panic--it's going to take time for your eyes to recover and your vision to improve.

You might even notice some bruising around your eyes. This is typically due to the anesthesia injection. In most cases, it resembles a black eye and dissipates within a few days of surgery.

Recovery Tips for Greater Success

If your doctor prescribes an antibiotic drop for your eyes, make sure that you take it precisely according to the directions. These drops will help to keep infections at bay. You may also get anti-inflammatory drops, which will help you manage the redness and inflammation.

Avoid driving for at least the first day after your surgery. Skip the strenuous activities for several weeks so that the sensitive tissue in your eyes can heal completely without being strained. Opt out of the swimming pool for the first several days after surgery as well because that can increase your risk of infection.

Cataract surgery can seem like a serious undertaking. With these tips and the support of your eye doctor, you can face both the surgery and recovery with the confidence that you're prepared for what's coming your way.

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