Cataract surgery is a relatively quick procedure that can dramatically improve vision within the first 24 hours. Most people take one to three days off work to rest and recover, but can resume most normal activities in a couple of days. Vision fluctuations are normal during recovery, but should stabilize in two to three months. It's important to wait at least a few weeks for surgery if another cataract is forming in the other eye.
Swimming pools and hot tubs should be avoided for one to two weeks after cataract surgery. Secondary cataracts may develop approximately 4 to 6 months after surgery, and 10 to 30% of patients may experience this condition. Patients should order new eyeglasses while they recover from cataract surgery, and take basic precautions to ensure a successful and uncomplicated procedure. If you're considering cataract surgery, contact Heart of Texas Eye Care for a free consultation and answers to all your questions.
Cataract surgery is a common procedure that can restore vision and improve quality of life. It's important to understand the recovery process before undergoing the procedure, so you know what to expect and how long it will take.
Vision Improvement
In most cases, vision improves almost immediately after cataract surgery, although the pupils may remain dilated for 1 to 2 days. Compared to other eye surgeries, recovery time from cataract surgery is relatively quick.Most people report dramatically better vision within the first 24 hours of the procedure.
Resuming Normal Activities
It's advisable to take one to three days off work to ensure you have enough time to rest, but it's normal to resume most normal activities in a couple of days. Simple activities such as reading, watching TV, writing, and walking can be resumed as soon as you feel like doing so after eye surgery.Stabilizing Vision
Vision fluctuations are normal during recovery from cataract surgery, but your vision should stabilize in two to three months. You should expect your eyes to have stabilized 2 to 4 months after surgery and plan for another follow-up visit with your eye doctor around that time.Waiting for SurgeryIf this was your first cataract surgery and another cataract forms (or is already forming) in the other eye, you will have to wait at least a few weeks for surgery.Precautions After Surgery
Thanks to advances in ophthalmology, you can reverse your vision time with cataract surgery.However, patients should avoid swimming pools and hot tubs one to two weeks after cataract surgery. Once you've completed cataract surgery, you'll be well on your way to a better lifestyle with the visual clarity you've wanted for years.
Secondary Cataracts
Cataracts don't grow back on artificial lenses, but something called a “secondary cataract” may develop approximately 4 to 6 months after surgery. Keep in mind that 10 to 30% of patients have a condition called secondary cataracts, which creates the feeling that the cataract is “coming back”.Ordering New Eyeglasses Your doctor will also tell you when to order new eyeglasses while you recover from cataract surgery. In the meantime, taking some basic precautions can ensure that cataract surgery is successful and uncomplicated.
Considering Cataract Surgery?
If you're considering cataract surgery for yourself or a loved one, contact us at Heart of Texas Eye Care for a free consultation. It's important that you answer all your questions about cataract surgery before surgery.Before undergoing cataract surgery at Discover Vision Centers, it's important to know the total recovery time from cataract surgery, the healing process, and ways to facilitate proper recovery from the procedure.
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