Common Side Effects After Cataract Surgery and How to Manage Them

Cataract surgery is a safe and highly successful procedure, with millions of people worldwide regaining clear vision every year. But like any surgery, some side effects can occur during the healing process. At DRHC Dubai, we believe in educating our patients so they feel confident, informed, and prepared every step of the way.

Here's a breakdown of the most common side effects after cataract surgery — and how to manage them effectively.

1. Blurry Vision

Why it happens:
Blurry or foggy vision is common in the first few days after surgery. Your eye is adjusting to the new intraocular lens (IOL), and there may still be swelling or mild inflammation.

How to manage:

Be patient – vision typically improves within a few days to a week.
Use prescribed anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops as directed.
Avoid straining your eyes or reading for long periods early on.

When to contact your doctor:
If vision worsens suddenly or doesn’t improve after a week, contact your ophthalmologist.

2. Light Sensitivity

Why it happens:
Your eye is more sensitive to light post-surgery due to the healing of corneal tissues and the removal of the cloudy natural lens.

How to manage:

Wear sunglasses when outdoors or in bright rooms.
Avoid direct sunlight exposure.
Use dim lighting indoors during the initial recovery phase.

Good to know: This usually improves within a few days as inflammation subsides.

3. Red or Bloodshot Eyes

Why it happens:
Tiny blood vessels on the surface of your eye may have been disturbed during the surgery, causing redness.

How to manage:

Continue using eye drops as prescribed.
Avoid rubbing your eyes.
Rest and limit screen time.

Typically resolves: Within 1 to 2 weeks.

4. Mild Discomfort or Itching

Why it happens:
A gritty or foreign body sensation is common due to the healing of the incision and dryness after surgery.

How to manage:

Use lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) if approved by your doctor.
Don’t touch, scratch, or press on your eye.
Use a protective eye shield while sleeping for the first few nights.

5. Halos or Glare Around Lights

Why it happens:
Your eye is adjusting to the new lens, especially if a multifocal or toric IOL was used.

How to manage:

These usually fade as the brain adjusts to the new way of seeing.
Avoid night driving initially.
Report persistent or severe glare to your ophthalmologist.

6. Floaters

Why it happens:
Seeing specks, threads, or cobweb-like shapes (floaters) can be more noticeable after surgery due to clearer vision or minor changes in the vitreous (gel inside the eye).

How to manage:

Most floaters are harmless and settle over time.
Monitor for any sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or shadow/curtain-like vision — which may indicate retinal issues.

7. Rare But Serious Side Effects

While uncommon, certain symptoms require immediate medical attention:

Sudden vision loss
Severe eye pain
Increasing redness or swelling
Pus or unusual discharge
Persistent flashes of light or dark curtain in vision

At DRHC Dubai, we urge patients to contact us immediately if any of these occur. Prompt care can prevent complications.

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Managing Side Effects: Do’s and Don’ts

DO:

Use all prescribed eye drops regularly
Wear sunglasses and protective eyewear
Attend all follow-up appointments
Follow activity restrictions (no bending, swimming, or heavy lifting)

DON'T:

Rub or press on your eye
Skip medications or self-medicate
Drive until your doctor gives approval
Expose your eye to dusty or windy environments without protection

Expert Post-Operative Care at DRHC Dubai

At DRHC Dubai, our cataract surgeons use advanced, minimally invasive techniques to reduce post-op discomfort and maximize results. But recovery doesn’t end in the operating room — we provide dedicated follow-up care to ensure your healing stays on track.

From your first consultation to your final check-up, our eye care team is committed to your comfort, vision, and peace of mind.