Cataracts cloud the lenses of the eyes, causing vision to become blurry or foggy. Fortunately, cataracts can be treated and vision can be improved with cataract surgery. At Peña Eye Institute, Dr. Raul Peña performs surgery to improve vision affected by cataracts by removing the natural lenses and replacing them with intraocular lens implants (IOLs). 

When undergoing cataract surgery, it’s important to follow all aftercare instructions to promote healing and recovery. These tips for cataract surgery aftercare and healing from our Harlingen, TX, practice will give you a general idea of what to expect. 

Aftercare Immediately Following Surgery

Although many patients notice an immediate improvement in vision after surgery, they will not be able to drive for at least 24 hours and will need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive them home after surgery. 

Patients may feel some eye discomfort as the anesthetic used during surgery wears off. Eye drops used as directed can help alleviate eye discomfort as well as prevent eye dryness. 

Approved over-the-counter pain medications, typically non-aspirin, may also be used to manage discomfort. 

In addition, it’s important that immediately after surgery patients: 

• Do not rub, scratch, or touch their eyes
• Do not go swimming or allow water in the eyes
• Wear a protective eye shield while sleeping
• Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities 
• Do not wear eye makeup
• Do not bend over or pick up heavy things
• Avoid putting pressure on the eyes

Aftercare Throughout Recovery

Recovery from cataract surgery takes several weeks and will vary based on each patient’s own healing times. With that said, most Harlingen patients are fully healed in four to eight weeks. 

While the eyes heal, it’s important to continue to follow proper aftercare practices to reduce the risk of complications, such as infection, and encourage a speedy recovery. 

Throughout recovery, or until directed otherwise by their doctor, patients should:

• Use eye drops as prescribed
• Avoid strenuous activities
• Avoid contact sports
• Do not wear eye makeup
• Continue to wear a protective eye shield while sleeping 

Vision and Healing After Surgery

While vision may be noticeably improved after surgery, it often becomes clearer as the eyes heal. However, it’s common for vision to be slightly blurry or distorted for a day or two following surgery. As the eyes adjust to their new lenses and begin to heal, patients should expect to see their vision to improve. 

In addition, the eyes may also appear bloodshot or red after surgery. This is a common reaction and should clear as the eyes heal. If redness does not go away within a few days or becomes worse, it should be brought to your doctor’s attention. 

Following all aftercare instructions throughout recovery can help reduce the risk of complications and promote healing. 

Contact Peña Eye Institute 

If you have cataracts and want to improve your vision, cataract surgery may be right for you. To learn more about cataract surgery and whether you’re a good candidate, call our Harlingen office at (956) 264-1200 to schedule a consultation.