Are you experiencing blurry vision, dryness, or itching after the cataract surgery?
This ophthalmic procedure is one of the most sensitive surgeries that may lead to certain minor or major side effects.
Note that each year, 4 million patients in the U.S. undergo cataract surgery, with serious complications occurring only rarely.
For optimal and faster healing, it’s important to do your homework and learn about different types of complications to better deal with them in the future (if any appear).
In this blog, we’ll explain the different types of cataract post-surgical complications and when to see a doctor.
Let’s begin with a short overview.
What is Cataract Surgery?
It’s an ophthalmic procedure that replaces a patient’s cloudy lens with an artificial one, aiming to improve vision.
The process usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes, but recovery may exceed 2 or 4 weeks.
There are different types of artificial lenses that can be implanted during surgery, such as:
- Multifocal
- Accommodative
- Monofocal
- Light-adjustable lenses, etc.
Types of Postoperative Complications
Here are the different types, along with the causes of surgical complications:
- Itching
Itching is typically caused by inflammation or any pre-existing allergies. This is a common complication that may take a few days to normalize.
How do you manage itching?
- Avoid rubbing and use sunglasses when going out in the daylight.
- Use prescribed cool compressors and apply them as recommended.
- Take antihistamines if you’ve any allergies.
When to seek professional help?
Minor itching is normal. Your doctor may prescribe medications for minor itching immediately after the surgery. However, if it persists and leads to severe pain, consult your surgeon for treatment.
- Dry Eyes
One of the most common postoperative complications is when the eyes stop producing enough tears. This can happen due to nerve damage, inflammation, or preexisting dry eyes.
How do you manage dry eyes?
- Lubricate the eyes with prescribed artificial tears.
- Avoid smoke, light, and other harsh environmental conditions.
When to seek professional help?
Dryness is a common sign that almost all patients experience. So, there is nothing to worry about until and unless it leads to unbearable pain, excessive itching, redness, etc.
Seeing Objects
After cataract surgery, you may notice that you see objects differently than earlier. This can include seeing halos around lights or having difficulty seeing in low light. These changes are temporary and may recover within a few days.
How do you manage changes in vision?
- Wear glasses to correct residual refractive errors.
- Be patient; it will take time to get used to your new lens.
When to seek professional help?
Seeing objects isn’t a common symptom. It’s important to visit your ophthalmologist immediately after visualizing objects.
- Light Sensitivity
Light sensitivity can occur after cataract surgery, especially in the days and weeks following the procedure. It is often caused by inflammation or dryness of the eye.
How do you manage light sensitivity?
- Protect your eyes from the sunlight and bright lights.
- Wear specialized UV sunglasses when going out.
When to seek professional help?
If light sensitivity persists or leads to infections/pain, consult your ophthalmologist for treatment.
- Nausea
Some patients may experience nausea immediately after cataract surgery, especially if they received anesthesia during the procedure.
How do you manage nausea?
- Drink enough fluids to stay hydrated.
- Eat bland foods to prevent stomach upsets.
- Nausea medications can also help.
When to seek professional help?
If the nausea becomes severe, consult your ophthalmologist.
- Red Eye
A red or bloodshot eye is a common postoperative complication after cataract surgery. It is usually caused by inflammation or a broken blood vessel.
How to manage a red eye?
- Apply cold compresses to minimize redness and inflammation.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes and exposure to irritants.
When to seek professional help?
If the issue persists and doesn’t recover within a few days, consult your ophthalmologist.
The Role of Ophthalmologists in Preventing Surgical Complications in Cataract Surgery
Ophthalmologists play a key role in ensuring successful cataract surgeries. Using their expertise and advanced surgical instruments, they comprehensively evaluate the patient’s eye health to identify any risks that could affect the surgery later on.
In addition, ophthalmologists use advanced surgical instruments to perform intricate procedures accurately, minimizing errors. They also ensure the highest standards of sterilization to prevent postoperative infections.
By addressing all these aspects, eye specialists greatly enhance the safety and success of cataract surgeries, ensuring better patient outcomes.
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Final Words!
While cataract surgery is generally safe and effective, it’s essential to be aware of potential post-surgical complications, as mentioned above.
By following your ophthalmologist’s advice and managing symptoms properly, you can ensure a smoother recovery.
Remember, prompt medical attention is crucial if complications persist or worsen. Always consult your surgeon if in doubt, and trust only those having high-quality and advanced surgery instruments for optimal results.