Currently, more than 50% of Americans aged 65 or older have cataracts, a normal part of the aging process. As we age, our eyes age right along with us, resulting in the clouding of the eye’s natural lens. This is what we are talking about when we refer to cataracts. If we live long enough, we will all develop cataracts at some point in our lives.
“I like to compare it to the clear plastic window in the back of a convertible car,” said board certified ophthalmologist Samuel Boles, M.D. “After years of exposure to sun and weather, the plastic becomes yellow and cloudy.”
The good news: cataracts are very treatable. Cataract surgery is a painless outpatient procedure and has the highest success rate of any surgery practiced today. But you want to know about recovery time. How long after surgery until you can perform normal, everyday tasks?
How Long is the Recovery Time Following Cataract Surgery?
Some patients can see perfectly well the day after cataract surgery and resume their normal, everyday function, including driving, in very little time. Other patients may take several days to fully recover their vision. It really depends on the individual. But there are several recommendations to follow:
The First Week after Cataract Surgery
During the first week of recovery, it is generally recommended to keep the eye covered at all times, typically with glasses, to protect the incision. Additional recommendations include:
- Avoid bending over with the head below the waist.
- Avoid lifting more than 10 pounds.
- Avoid straining to the point of holding one’s breath.
These actions increase the pressure in the eye and can open the incision.
Several Weeks after Cataract Surgery
A few weeks following surgery, the patient will see his/her doctor for a follow-up appointment and to receive a final prescription.
Cataract Treatment in Maryland
AAEC is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma and cataracts. Board Certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles and his staff have helped preserve thousands of patients’ vision. They can help you too. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, AAEC’s state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.
If you have any questions about Cataract Treatment or wish to schedule an appointment with Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC), please contact Board Certified Ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, Dr. Kathryn Gurganus Turner, and the eye care specialists here at AAEC by calling 410-224-2010 or Click Here to fill out our contact form.
You can also follow AAEC on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!
For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.
I had no idea that it was recommended that you avoid lifting more than 10 pounds after cataract surgery. It is important to remember that following the instructions your doctor provides you can help you get the best results from your surgery and get back your vision. Personally, I would want to make sure I know and understand all I need to do to make a full recovery after cataract surgery before undergoing the treatment so I am prepared for it.
Ihad cataract surgery a month ago. but still my eye sight is cloudy.what can be the reason what should i do.
We recommend following up directly with the doctor who performed your surgery for a follow up visit.