Cataract surgery is a common eye care procedure in Australia, and while true pain after the operation is rare, mild to moderate discomfort is common. Many people report feeling like they have sand in their eye or that their eye itches after the surgery, which is a normal sensation caused by the small incision in the eye and should heal in about a week. If you have dry eyes, the discomfort may last up to three months. It's normal to have some swelling and redness after cataract surgery, and if you experience more severe discomfort or pain, prescription medications may be prescribed.
Some patients with cataracts require a stitch or suture in the eye during surgery, which shouldn't bother you but sometimes needs to be removed after the operation. Increased sensitivity to glare in the weeks or months following cataract surgery can be painful in bright environments. If you're thinking about having cataract surgery soon, it's important to understand what to expect. Cataract surgery is generally not considered a painful operation due to the use of effective anesthesia. When the doctor removes the opaque lens during cataract surgery, some pieces may fall into the eye and be left behind.
There are other painkillers or sedatives that may be used during cataract surgery in patients who are believed to be at greater risk of significant pain or discomfort. People who undergo surgery to treat dense and particularly advanced cataracts also tend to be more likely to experience some degree of pain during surgery. Dry eye disease is a condition in and of itself, which can cause sensations ranging from mild eye dryness to debilitating pain. Blurred vision can also be caused by PCO, a fairly common complication that can occur weeks, months, or (more often) years after cataract surgery. Fortunately, cataract surgery can improve vision by removing the lens affected by cataracts and replacing it with an intraocular lens. If you're concerned about vision loss due to cataracts, schedule an appointment as soon as possible to learn more about cataract surgery at Broberg Eye Care.
By following these recommendations, patients can ensure a smooth and successful recovery from cataract surgery.
