Why Does My Eye Feel Like Something Is In It After Cataract Surgery?
Wondering why your eye feels like something is in it after cataract surgery? Discover the common causes, what’s normal during recovery, and when to seek medical help for a smooth healing process.
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Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
Introduction
If you’ve recently had cataract surgery and feel like there’s something in your eye—such as grit, sand, or an eyelash, you’re not alone. Many patients experience this sensation after the procedure. While it’s usually temporary and harmless, understanding why it happens and how to manage it can help ease your concerns.
What Causes This Sensation After Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens of your eye and replacing it with an artificial one. Even though the procedure is quick and minimally invasive, your eye still needs time to heal. Here are some common reasons why you might feel like something is in your eye:
1. Healing Process: Your eye undergoes natural healing after surgery, which can cause mild irritation or a foreign body sensation.
2. Dry Eyes: Surgery can temporarily reduce tear production, leading to dryness and discomfort.
3. Small Incisions: The tiny cuts made during surgery may cause slight irritation as they heal.
4. Eye Drops: Post-surgery medications (like antibiotic or anti-inflammatory drops) can sometimes cause mild stinging or grittiness.
5. Eyelid Sensitivity: Swelling or mild inflammation in the eyelids can contribute to the feeling of something being stuck in your eye.
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How Long Does This Feeling Last?
For most people, this sensation improves within a few days to a week. However, if dryness is the main cause, it may take a few weeks to fully resolve. If the feeling persists beyond a month or worsens, you should consult your eye doctor.
Tips to Relieve Discomfort
Here are some ways to ease the gritty feeling in your eye after cataract surgery:
1. Use Prescribed Eye Drops: Follow your doctor’s instructions for lubricating and medicated drops to keep your eye moist and reduce inflammation.
2. Avoid Rubbing Your Eye: Rubbing can increase irritation or even cause an infection. If your eye feels itchy, gently pat it with a clean tissue instead.
3. Wear Sunglasses Outdoors: Bright light and wind can worsen dryness and discomfort. Wearing sunglasses helps protect your healing eye.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water supports tear production and reduces dryness.
5. Use a Humidifier: If the air in your home is dry, a humidifier can help keep your eyes more comfortable.
6. Take Breaks from Screens: Staring at phones, computers, or TVs for long periods can strain your eyes and worsen dryness. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
When Should You See a Doctor?
While mild irritation is normal, contact your eye specialist if you experience:
Severe pain (not just discomfort)
Increased redness or swelling
Blurred vision that doesn’t improve
Pus or excessive discharge
Sensitivity to light that worsens
These could be signs of infection, inflammation, or other complications that need medical attention.
Conclusion
Feeling like something is in your eye after cataract surgery is common and usually temporary. With proper care, most patients recover smoothly. If you’re concerned about persistent discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor.
Consult Top Eye Surgeon
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Sujit Pahari
Ophthalmologist
22 Years • MBBS, DNB, DOMS Ophthalmologist/ Eye Surgeon. FIC (Ophthal).
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Dr Rajesh Rastogi
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33 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology
New Delhi
Rotary Diabetic Centre, New Delhi
Dr. Padmini S
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Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. S Venkateswaran
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35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)
Tiruvannamalai
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Dr. V.chittibabu
Ophthalmologist
30 Years • MBBS, MS
Vellore
Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore
Consult Top Eye Surgeon
Dr. Sujit Pahari
Ophthalmologist
22 Years • MBBS, DNB, DOMS Ophthalmologist/ Eye Surgeon. FIC (Ophthal).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
Dr Rajesh Rastogi
Ophthalmologist
33 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology
New Delhi
Rotary Diabetic Centre, New Delhi
Dr. Padmini S
Ophthalmologist
4 Years • MBBS,MS
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. S Venkateswaran
Ophthalmologist
35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)
Tiruvannamalai
Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai
Dr. V.chittibabu
Ophthalmologist
30 Years • MBBS, MS
Vellore
Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore
