Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful eye surgeries worldwide. But the success of the surgery doesn’t end at the operation table. What you do or avoid doing after the surgery plays a major role in how well and quickly you recover.
This blog will walk you through the do’s and don’ts after cataract surgery, precautions you must follow, and easy-to-understand answers to your most common questions. Whether you’re a patient or a caregiver, this guide is designed to help you or your loved one heal comfortably and confidently.
Why Are Post-Cataract Surgery Precautions Important?
After cataract surgery, your eye needs time to heal. Although the procedure is quick and often done on an outpatient basis, the operated eye remains sensitive for several days or weeks.
Following the right do’s and don’ts after cataract surgery helps:
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Reduce the risk of infection
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Prevent injury or strain to the eye
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Ensure faster and smoother healing
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Protect the newly placed artificial lens (IOL)
Do’s After Cataract Surgery – What You Should Definitely Do
Taking proper care of your eye after surgery will make all the difference in recovery. Here’s what you should do:
1. Use Eye Drops as Prescribed
Your doctor will prescribe antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops. These drops help prevent infection and reduce swelling. Use them exactly as directed—do not skip doses or stop early.
2. Wear Protective Eye Shield
Especially during sleep, wearing an eye shield prevents you from accidentally rubbing or pressing the eye. This is usually required for the first 7 days post-surgery.
3. Keep Your Eye Clean
While bathing or washing your face, be very gentle. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe your face, and avoid touching the eye area directly.
4. Rest Well and Avoid Eye Strain
Give your eyes plenty of rest. Avoid reading, watching TV, or using a phone excessively during the first few days.
5. Wear Sunglasses During the Day
Your eye may be sensitive to bright light after surgery. Use dark UV-protective sunglasses when you go out, even if it’s not very sunny.
6. Follow All Post-Op Appointments
Make sure to attend every follow-up appointment with your ophthalmologist. These visits help monitor healing and address any early signs of complications.
Don’ts After Cataract Surgery – What You Should Avoid
Some actions may interfere with healing or even lead to complications. Here’s what you should not do:
1. Don’t Rub or Press the Eye
This is the most important point. Rubbing or pressing the eye can displace the lens or cause infection.
2. Avoid Dusty or Polluted Environments
Dust or pollution can irritate the eye and increase the risk of infection. Stay indoors or wear protective glasses when stepping out.
3. Don’t Wash Face with Tap Water for a Few Days
Avoid direct water contact, especially from a bucket or shower. Use a soft cloth to clean your face gently.
4. Avoid Heavy Lifting or Bending Over
For at least 1–2 weeks, don’t lift heavy objects or bend in a way that puts pressure on your eyes.
5. Say No to Eye Makeup or Creams
Avoid applying any makeup or cream around your eye area for at least 2 weeks post-surgery.
6. Do Not Drive Immediately
Wait until your doctor confirms your vision is stable and it’s safe to drive again. Usually, this takes about 7–10 days, but it can vary.
Diet and Lifestyle Tips After Cataract Surgery
While there’s no strict “post-cataract surgery diet,” eating well can promote faster healing.
Foods to Eat
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Leafy greens like spinach and kale
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Citrus fruits (vitamin C)
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Nuts and seeds (vitamin E and omega-3s)
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Carrots and sweet potatoes (vitamin A)
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Plenty of water to stay hydrated
Foods to Avoid
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Excessively spicy or oily foods (can cause body heat and discomfort)
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High-sugar processed foods (slows healing)
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Smoking and alcohol (delays recovery and increases complications)
How Long Does Recovery Take After Cataract Surgery?
Most people begin to see clearly within 1–3 days, but full healing takes about 4–6 weeks.
Vision improvement is gradual. Mild irritation, dryness, or blurry vision may persist in the early days, but these typically improve with medication and rest.
What to Watch Out For – Warning Signs After Cataract Surgery
Call your doctor immediately if you experience:
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Severe or sudden eye pain
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Loss of vision or increase in blurriness
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Redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye
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Flashes of light or floaters
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Nausea or vomiting (can be a sign of increased eye pressure)
These could be signs of infection, inflammation, or retinal issues that require immediate attention.