SoCal Eye Cataract Surgeons in Long Beach treat hundreds of cataract patients every year. Our leadership in cataract treatment is based on our ability to deliver the highest levels of care and an unparalleled patient experience. Cataract Surgery is one of the most common and the safest surgical procedures performed in the United States today. It can restore your eyesight and your quality of life. One of the most common questions asked by patients before Cataract Surgery is what to expect from Recovery from Cataract Surgery and How Long Will Recovery from Cataract Surgery take?
Cataract Surgery Recovery Time.
Although some patients see well just a few days after cataract surgery, full healing can take up to three months. Cataract surgery recovery time tends to be minimal and mild, but there are various factors that can impact the speed of recovery.
Recovery from Cataract Surgery – Up to 24 Hours After Cataract Surgery
- After cataract surgery, a lightweight protective shield/patch will be placed over your eye and taped into place. This patch will protect your eye and decrease the risk of injury from inadvertently rubbing or accidentally bumping your eye.
- Each patient is given dark sunglasses to wear for the drive home. This will reduce the light sensitivity.
- It is not uncommon for patients to feel a little groggy immediately after surgery, especially if you were given a medication to help you relax during the procedure.
- Cataract patients should not drive for 24 hours following surgery and preparations should be made for an alternate driver to get you home after the procedure.
- It is recommended that you fill the prescriptions for post-operative medications before the procedure.
- The protective eye shield should be worn for 24 hours and thereafter can be removed during the day. SoCal Eye cataract doctors recommend that it should be worn at night when sleeping for at least a week to prevent eye injury.
- Prescribed eye drop medications should be administered as instructed to control inflammation and reduce the risk of infection.
- Patients may experience some mild post-operative discomfort with burning, stinging and/or a gritty feeling to the eye. This is normal.
- Patients should not rub or put any pressure on the eye.
- Patients may engage in light activity — such as reading, watching television and walking — immediately after cataract surgery, but they may want to simply rest comfortably or nap in bed when they arrive home.
Recovery from Cataract Surgery – 24 Hours After Cataract Surgery
- Avoid Heavy Lifting. It is recommended that patients avoid lifting and bending for up to a week after surgery. Put off any intense physical projects until after you’ve completely recovered from surgery.
- Lethargy/ Tired. It is normal for cataract patients to feel fatigued and lethargic after surgery. This can last for a few days after surgery.
- Stay out of Swimming Pools for at Least One Week. You should also avoid saunas and hot tubs during this time as well as these can cause infection.
- Patients should refrain from strenuous physical activity for at least a week or so after cataract surgery. In addition to increasing your chances of injury due to impaired vision, activities that can increase your eye pressure and the pressure in your head, such as bending down, could increase your risk of developing complications. Avoid high-intensity exercises, heavy lifting (anything over 20lbs), and activities that increase your risk of infection. After a few days, you may be able to resume light activity, such as walking if cleared by your doctor. And after three to four weeks you should be able to resume your regular exercise routine.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions.
- Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to ensure your eye is healing properly. Regularly take the drops your doctor prescribes to you.
- Call your Eye Doctor if you notice:
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- Your eyesight getting worse
- A change in your field of vision
- Increasing eye pain
- No reduction in redness or swelling
- Discharge from your eye
- Strange flashes of light in your vision
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SoCal Eye – Cataract Treatment Long Beach:
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective types of surgery performed in the United States today. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and approximately 90% of cataract surgery patients report better vision following the surgery. All treatment begins with a Consultation with a SoCal Eye Cataract Specialist or Cataract Surgeon in Long Beach.
For Cataract Treatment in Long Beach, Schedule an Appointment today at LAKEWOOD (562) 531-2020 | LOS ALAMITOS (562) 598-7728 or send us an Online Consultation Request
