3 Things To Expect The Year After Cataract Surgery
After preparing for cataract surgery, your work isn’t finished quite yet. Over the course of the next few months, you will need to go through recovery.
During cataract surgery, a flap is cut into your cornea. Your natural lens is then removed and replaced with an IOL.
While this process does not take long, it will still take some time for the tissue to heal. During this time you will need to be extra careful.
Keep reading for 3 things to expect in the year after having cataract surgery!
1. Follow Up Appointments
After cataract surgery, you will need to attend a check-up within 48 hours. You will then have another follow-up appointment scheduled about a week later, and then another about a month later. These appointments are put in place so the doctor can assess the progression of your healing.
This is incredibly important because otherwise, you could experience problems. If you do develop any problems or complications, it’s best to have them handled early on.
These appointments are also a fantastic opportunity for you to express concerns or ask any questions after your surgery.
2. More Caution With Your Eyes
Needless to say, your eyes will be quite fragile after going through surgery. They will be more susceptible to injury and infection, especially at the beginning of your recovery.
When you first leave the office, you should sleep as much as possible. This likely won’t be difficult, as you will experience significant fatigue.
While you sleep, you will wear shields over your eyes. These are provided to you to prevent anything from coming into contact with your eyes.
It is imperative that you do not rub your eyes during recovery. The flap created during cataract surgery will be very prone to tearing. During the first few days of recovery, bending over or lifting something can cause damage. This is enough to disrupt the tissue from reattaching.
You will also need to avoid getting anything in your eyes. This includes even clean tap water. Water has bacteria, or can carry bacteria from your skin into your eyes.
You can still shower, though you should keep your eyes closed as much as possible. Remember to not dry your eyelids off with a towel, as this can carry bacteria as well.
3. Better Vision
If you opted for premium IOLs, you may not need glasses after cataract surgery. Many patients with premium IOLs experience the best vision of their life! Premium IOLs are not a guarantee of vision independence, but they have a very good success rate.
Many people notice their vision becomes clear right away after surgery. You may still encounter some blurriness.
In any case, you should prepare a ride to and from the clinic. You are not allowed to drive the day you have cataract surgery. Most patients can drive after a few days when cleared by their doctor.
Wondering if it may be time for cataract surgery? Schedule a cataract screening at Pinke Eye Center in Shelton, CT today! Isn’t it time to say goodbye to cataracts and blurry vision?
