Cataracts are a normal age-related vision problem. Almost everyone develops cataracts as they grow older. Over half of people over the age of 60 suffer from cataracts. For many of these patients, cataract surgery is a great treatment option. However, they are often nervous about the procedure and recovery.
Read on to find out what you can expect after cataract surgery and some tips for improving your recovery.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts occur when proteins in the eye’s lens clump together, forming cloudy areas that interfere with light passing through the eye to the retina. Over time, these cataracts can result in blurred or fuzzy vision and sensitivity to light. The experience is often described as looking through a waterfall or a piece of wax paper.
If you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts, your eye doctor will determine if you are a candidate for cataract surgery. There are many different options offered at Berkeley Eye Center, including our new Laser Cataract Surgery procedure, ORA system technology, and the latest FDA-approved lens implant technology.
What to Expect After Cataract Surgery
After your cataract surgery, you’ll be able to go home. Everyone heals somewhat differently, but most patients experience improvement in their vision within hours after their procedure. Most patients return to their normal activities by a day or two, with some limited restrictions for 1-2 weeks.
During the recovery process, you may experience:
- Watering eyes
- Grittiness, like the sensation of a foreign body in your eye
- Red or bloodshot eyes
- Dry eyes
- Blurred vision
- Double vision
- Halos
Cataract surgery is safe and has a high rate of success. After your cataract surgery, it’s important to take steps to ensure a safe and speedy recovery following the procedure.
Tips to Improve Your Recovery After Your Cataract Surgery
Here are some tips to help you best recover from cataract surgery:
- Use your prescribed eye drops as instructed
- Use your protective eyeshield at night for at least a week after the procedure
- Don’t rub your eyes
- Use appropriate pain medication
- Avoid swimming
- Shower and bathe as normal, but take care to avoid getting soap or shampoo in your eyes
- Wear your shield, old glasses, or sunglasses outdoors
- Avoid sports and other activities that could result in eye trauma
- Avoid driving until your vision is satisfactory
If you experience increased pain or redness, or reduced vision, contact your eye doctor immediately.
Are You a Candidate for Houston Cataract Surgery?
Berkeley Eye Center has been protecting the vision of our patients for over 60 years. We’re Houston’s first choice when it comes to cataract surgery. Our pioneering cataract surgical procedures, including cataract removal and lens implantation, have helped set the standards for cataract care around the world.
We provide the latest and most effective cataract surgery procedures to patients throughout the Houston area. If you’re over the age of 50 and are beginning to notice changes in your vision, it’s important to get a comprehensive eye exam to determine what the problem may be. The sooner age-related vision problems like cataracts are diagnosed, the more effective your treatment options are.
Schedule your eye exam online or call Berkeley Eye Center at 713-526-1600. We have comprehensive eye centers conveniently located throughout Houston and its surrounding areas.