As the eyes heal and adapt to the changes after cataract surgery, some patients may experience blurred vision. This is usually temporary and should clear up within a few days. However, there are other mild side effects that may occur as the vision clears. Dysphotopsia, or unwanted visual images, is one of these side effects and can include glare, halos, and light rays.
This is more common with multifocal lenses and can be more noticeable between the surgery on the first and second eye. Residual refractive error can also cause positive dysphototopsia, and the correct prescription of glasses will correct this. In some cases, PCO may be the cause and YAG laser treatment may resolve the problem. It is common for people to have an imbalance in their vision after cataract surgery, known as anisometropia. This is why ophthalmologists normally schedule cataract surgery on two different days, so that the patient's eyes have time to stabilize after each procedure.
If blurred vision persists several weeks after cataract surgery, it is important to seek medical attention right away to rule out possible complications such as retinal detachment. Sudden changes in vision should also be checked out by a doctor. It is not uncommon for people to be able to go back to work within a few days after cataract surgery if their vision isn't blurry. However, it is best to take it easy for the first few days after the procedure. According to the American Optometric Association, approximately 90 percent of patients report improved vision after cataract surgery.
Mild eye dryness is also common after cataract surgery, with about 64 percent of study participants experiencing this. If you are experiencing any changes in your vision after cataract surgery, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Blurred vision should clear up within a few days but if it persists, it could be a sign of a more serious issue. If you experience an imbalance in your vision after a few days after surgery, try to see if any of your glasses soothe you. Other causes of continuous blurred vision include residual refractive error (the eyes still need additional correction with glasses), dry eyes, or opacity of the back capsule (PCO).
