Cataract surgery is a mild procedure to clear a cloudy lens causing blurred vision. A patient gets a new intraocular lens that treats shortsightedness and farsightedness. Surgery is necessary if the cataracts prevent you from performing your daily duties.
Candidates for Cataract Removal
Cataracts can affect one or both eyes, and the procedure depends on the extent of the problem. Cataract surgery may be necessary if the cataracts interfere with normal vision, affecting your daily activities. Don’t wait until cataracts hinder you from living a normal life. Consult your eye surgeon about the appropriate time for the procedure.
Eye specialists may suggest a procedure to examine the back of the eye because cataract surgery won’t correct vision loss from diabetes-related eye complications. The procedure only treats cataract-related vision loss.
Sensations During Cataract Surgery
Most patients report minimal or no pain during and after the procedure. The topical anesthetic administered numbs your eye throughout the procedure. Mild irritation may be experienced shortly after the cataract surgery. Your eye doctor can prescribe pain medication to reduce the tenderness.
Recovery From Cataract Surgery
After cataract surgery, your eyes may feel itchy and more watery than usual. Your eye care specialist may send you home with a bandage to protect your eyes from further irritation and injury. Your eye doctor may prescribe eye drops to optimize healing. How well you care for your eyes when recovering influences your healing period and the surgery’s benefit. Here are a few tips on how to improve recovery after surgery:
1. Avoid Strenuous Activities
Physically demanding exercises and activities can increase eye pressure. High pressure may restrict the proper healing of the incision. Avoid rigorous activities like running, cycling, and weight lifting to reduce stress on your eyes.
2. Protect Your Eyes From Irritations
Your eye will be more sensitive when you go home after surgery, making it feel scratchy. You may feel like sand particles or hairs are in your eye. A bandage or a patch can protect your eyes from dust, dirt, and harmful light. Your eye specialist may give you eye shields to prevent you from touching or rubbing your eyes, which may cause trauma.
3. Limit Exposure to Water
Exposing your eyes to water may cause infections or irritation, slowing the healing process. Avoid using hot tubs or swimming pools until the eye has fully recovered. Consult your doctor on how to shower and clean your eyes safely. Cleaning your eyes prevents stickiness and infections when done correctly. Patients can follow these steps for safety if your eye needs cleaning after getting it wet:
- Clean your hands well with soap and water
- Dip cotton wool in warm water
- Gently wipe the eyelids
- Don’t press or wipe inside the eye
Don’t clean the eye in the first few days after the surgery to avoid injuries or infections. Your eye is the most delicate at this time.
4. Follow the Doctor’s Guidelines
Ask your eye specialist about precautions you can take and when to continue normal activities. Follow the prescription guidelines for medicines like painkillers and eyedrops for optimal healing. Recovery is different for each person. Seek out guidance for successful healing. Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice these signs after your procedure:
- Increased eye discomfort
- Loss of vision
- Sickness or vomiting
- Spots in your vision
Schedule Your Cataract Surgery Today
Cataract surgery can improve your vision. The procedure is short and does not cause significant discomfort. Before arranging for a surgery, research to make the best decision. Pick an experienced, licensed, and skilled specialist for a successful recovery. Delaying your visit to an eye doctor can worsen your cataracts. Contact your doctor today to get started on correcting your vision.