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Does Bright Light Hurt Your Eyes After Cataract Surgery

Wondering why bright light hurts your eyes after cataract surgery? Learn the causes, how long light sensitivity lasts, and tips to manage discomfort during recovery.

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Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt

Last updated on 15th Jul, 2025

Introduction

If you’ve recently had cataract surgery, you may have noticed that bright lights seem harsher than before. This is a common concern, and the good news is that it’s usually temporary. In this article, we’ll explain why bright light might bother your eyes after surgery, how long it lasts, and what you can do to ease discomfort.

Why Does Bright Light Hurt After Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy natural lens of your eye and replacing it with a clear artificial lens (intraocular lens or IOL). While this restores clear vision, your eyes need time to adjust to the new lens. Here’s why bright light may feel uncomfortable:

1. Increased Light Sensitivity (Photophobia) – Your eye’s natural lens had a slight yellowish tint, which filtered some blue and UV light. The new artificial lens is crystal clear, allowing more light to enter, which can feel overwhelming at first.

2. Pupil Dilation – During surgery, your pupil is dilated, and it may take time to return to normal size, making your eyes more sensitive to bright lights.

3. Healing Process – Your eye is healing from the procedure, and inflammation or dryness can temporarily increase light sensitivity.

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Health Advice

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr. V.chittibabu, Ophthalmologist

Dr. V.chittibabu

Ophthalmologist

30 Years • MBBS, MS

Vellore

Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore

625

How Long Does Light Sensitivity Last?

For most people, light sensitivity improves within a few days to a few weeks after surgery. However, some may experience it for a longer period, especially if they have:

  • Pre-existing light sensitivity issues

  • Dry eyes

  • A history of migraines or eye conditions

If sensitivity persists beyond a month or worsens, consult your eye doctor to rule out complications like inflammation or infection.

Tips to Manage Light Sensitivity After Cataract Surgery

Here are some simple ways to reduce discomfort from bright lights:

1. Wear Sunglasses

  • Choose UV-protected sunglasses with polarised lenses to reduce glare.

  • Wear them even on cloudy days, as indirect sunlight can still be harsh.

2. Adjust Indoor Lighting

  • Use soft, diffused lighting at home instead of harsh overhead lights.

  • Reduce screen brightness on phones, computers, and TVs.

3. Use Artificial Tears

Dry eyes can worsen light sensitivity. Use preservative-free artificial tears as recommended by your doctor.

4. Avoid Direct Sunlight

  • Stay indoors during peak sunlight hours, between 10 AM and 4 PM.

  • Wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection when outside.

5. Rest Your Eyes

Take breaks from screens and close your eyes for a few minutes if they feel strained.

When to See a Doctor

While mild light sensitivity is normal, contact your eye specialist if you experience:

  • Severe pain or redness

  • Sudden vision changes

  • Persistent sensitivity beyond a few weeks

  • Flashes of light or floaters that could indicate retinal issues

If you’re concerned about your recovery, you can book a consultation with an eye specialist on Apollo 24|7 for personalised advice.

Final Thoughts

Bright light sensitivity after cataract surgery is usually temporary and improves as your eyes heal. Simple measures like wearing sunglasses and adjusting lighting can make a big difference. If discomfort persists, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.

Need expert advice? Schedule a follow-up with an ophthalmologist on Apollo 24|7 today.

Consult Top Eye Specialists

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr. V.chittibabu, Ophthalmologist

Dr. V.chittibabu

Ophthalmologist

30 Years • MBBS, MS

Vellore

Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore

625

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Health Advice

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr Rajesh Rastogi, Ophthalmologist

Dr Rajesh Rastogi

Ophthalmologist

33 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology

New Delhi

Rotary Diabetic Centre, New Delhi

1500

1200

Dr. V.chittibabu, Ophthalmologist

Dr. V.chittibabu

Ophthalmologist

30 Years • MBBS, MS

Vellore

Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore

625

Dr. Sneha T Khurana, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Sneha T Khurana

Ophthalmologist

9 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology

Gurugram

GS multispeciality clinic, Gurugram

1300

Dr. Akashdipta Saha, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Akashdipta Saha

Ophthalmologist

4 Years • MBBS, MD(Ophthalmology), Fellowship in Retina & Vitreous

Delhi

AIIMS, Delhi

625

Consult Top Eye Specialists

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr Rajesh Rastogi, Ophthalmologist

Dr Rajesh Rastogi

Ophthalmologist

33 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology

New Delhi

Rotary Diabetic Centre, New Delhi

1500

1200

Dr. V.chittibabu, Ophthalmologist

Dr. V.chittibabu

Ophthalmologist

30 Years • MBBS, MS

Vellore

Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore

625

Dr. Sneha T Khurana, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Sneha T Khurana

Ophthalmologist

9 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology

Gurugram

GS multispeciality clinic, Gurugram

1300

Dr. Akashdipta Saha, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Akashdipta Saha

Ophthalmologist

4 Years • MBBS, MD(Ophthalmology), Fellowship in Retina & Vitreous

Delhi

AIIMS, Delhi

625

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