Cataract surgery is a common procedure to restore vision by removing the cataract-affected lens and replacing it with an intraocular lens, typically lasting 20 to 30 minutes. Recovery includes blurred vision initially, clearer sight after 24 hours, and potential complications that may require medical attention. Following proper post-operative care is essential for a successful recovery and to prevent issues such as irritation and swelling.

1. CATARACT SURGERY
RECOVERY TIMELINE
Dr. Jimmy Lim

2. 1
CATARACT SURGERY
Cataract surgery is the most common medically
accepted treatment for cataracts—to restore clear
vision and improve quality of life. According to the
National Eye Institute, at least half of the people in the
US have had their cataracts removed surgically by the
time they’re 80 years of age.

3. 2
BACKGROUND AND OVERVIEW

4. 3
• Most cataracts develop slowly over time due to
ageing, affecting most people over 50. In some
cases, however, cataracts can develop in infants and
young children due to trauma or medications.
• People who smoke cigarettes, consume too much
alcohol, live in an area with ultraviolet exposure, and
have a family history of cataracts are more likely to
develop eye conditions.

5. 4
• Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent
permanent vision loss. Cataract surgery is a day
surgical procedure performed by an ophthalmologist.
• Cataract surgery, also known as lens replacement
surgery, is performed to remove the natural lens with
a cataract and replace it with an intraocular lens.
It is a safe day surgery that may last between
20 to 30 minutes.
• However, recovery and care after the surgery are of
utmost importance. The cataract surgery recovery
timeline should be short and uneventful as long as you
follow all instructions provided by the doctor.

6. 5
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER
CATARACT SURGERY

7. 6
INITIALLY, AFTER
CATARACT SURGERY:
• Vision is blurred or distorted
• The eyes will adapt to the new lens
• You are not allowed to drive or operate
heavy machinery
• You should not bend over and perform
strenuous activities

8. 7
24 HOURS AFTER
CATARACT SURGERY:
• Your vision will become clearer
• Make sure to take time off from work for about
three days to one week.
• You can tolerate simple tasks like reading, writing,
walking, or watching TV

9. 8
ONE WEEK AFTER
CATARACT SURGERY:
• The cornea may become swollen, causing hazy or
distorted vision
• Irritation may occur due to face creams, lotion, or
eye make-up
• Prevent using products on the face or near the eyes
• When going out, wear your sunglasses to protect
from UV rays
• Use an eye shield during naps or sleep

10. 9
ONE MONTH AFTER
CATARACT SURGERY:
• The surgery is completely healed as long as you
follow all instructions
• Visit your ophthalmologist for a follow-up
consultation and to allow the doctor to watch out
for common complications thaty may arise.

11. 10
CATARACT SURGERY
COMPLICATIONS
• Unusual eye pressure changes
• Double vision
• Vision loss
• Swelling
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Vision loss
*Call your doctor if you experience any of
these complications.

12. If you want to learn more about cataract surgery,
please call us, and we would like to discuss these in
detail with you.

13. JL Eye Specialists
Dr Lim Wei Kheong Jimmy
MBBS, MMed (Ophth), MRCSEd (Ophth), FRCSEd (Ophth), FAMS
Website: https://jleyespecialists.com/
Address:
Gleneagles Medical Centre
6 Napier Road #07-10,
Singapore 258499
Phone: +65 6258 8966
Fax: +65 6258 8766
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jleyespecialists/
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