Cataract removal is one of the most common elective surgical procedures in the world. While the treatment is safe and relatively comfortable, there are many questions that pre-patients have before surgery. In this article, we address some common questions and offer some practical tips on a good recovery after cataract treatment.
Why you should not be terrified of having cataract surgery
There are several reasons why someone might be terrified of cataract surgery, but it is important to keep in mind that it is a very safe and effective procedure. If you’re terrified about getting the treatment done, here’s why you shouldn’t be:
Advancements in technology: At Optegra we invest and use the latest available techniques and technologies s so that our patients have the best treatment that can be offered.
High success rate: Cataract surgery has a very high success rate, at Optegra 99% of our patients had zero reported operative complications in the last year.
Short recovery time: Recovery time after cataract surgery is generally short, with most patients returning to their normal activities within just a few days.
Minimally invasive: Cataract surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that takes about 8 mins on average, there are no injections involved and the recovery period is very quick.
Improved quality of life: Cataract surgery can significantly improve a person’s quality of life by restoring their vision and allowing them to resume their day-to-day activities and hobbies.
How long should you wait to do housework after cataract surgery?
It is generally recommended to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for the first 24-48 hours after cataract surgery to reduce the risk of complications. This includes housework and tasks that involve bending or reaching overhead. You should follow the instructions provided by your surgeon regarding when you can resume normal activities. It is recommended to not rub or press on the eye, or to avoid exposure to soap or water while showering or washing your face for at least a week after the surgery.
It’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and to be mindful of the healing process of your eye. This will help you achieve optimal healing and prevent complications.
Wait at least 24 to 48 hours before attempting housework following cataract surgery
How long after cataract surgery can you drive?
Most patients are able to drive within a day or two after the surgery. You must meet the minumum legal DVLA requirements to be able to drive and your surgeon will advise you about when it is safe to do so.
Advice on showering and washing your hair after cataract surgery
After cataract surgery, you should wait at least 24 hrs before you can bathe and shower. After this you can shower and bathe as normal. When bathing and showering it is important that your eyes are closed, you do not rub your eyes and that you are very careful to not get any shampoo or soap into your eye. .
Your surgeon may also provide specific instructions on how to clean the eye, as well as when it’s safe to take a shower, and what precautions should be taken to protect the eye.
It’s also important to follow post-operative instructions and to be mindful of the healing process of your eye.
What is the best sleeping position after cataract surgery?
Getting sleep to aid recovery from your cataract surgery is essential. You will be provided with a protective shield to wear for seven nights to help prevent infection and stop you from accidentally rubbing your eyes.
To avoid the shield being dislodged whilst you sleep you can sleep on your back, or you can sleep on the opposite side to the eye you had your cataract surgery on.
Can you fly after cataract surgery?
It is generally safe to fly after cataract surgery, but it’s important to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon.
Most people can fly within a week after cataract surgery, but it’s important to wait until you have fully recovered and your vision has improved enough to safely travel. We would recommend you wait if you can until after your postoperative appointment.
We recommend carrying a copy of your medical information, including the surgery date, type of surgery, medications, and your surgeon’s contact information in case of an emergency.
How long after cataract surgery can you bend over?
It is generally recommended to avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects for the first 24 hours to a week (prolonged bending) after cataract surgery to reduce the risk of complications. Your surgeon will advise you about what activities you will be able to do.
How long should you wait before cooking after cataract surgery?
If you’re feeling OK you can do everyday activities, like cooking, when you get home after your surgery. Avoid any heavy lifting or bending whilst cooking and avoid getting steam or smoke in the eye or touching the eye with dirty hands or utensils.
It’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and to be mindful of the healing process of your eye. This will help you achieve optimal healing and prevent complications.
To learn more about having cataract surgery at one of our eye hospitals please book a free consultation.
Take care when cooking immediately after cataract surgery
By Author: Amir Hamid
Mr. Amir Hamid is a Clinical Lead for Vision Correction and an expert refractive surgeon, based in London.
