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.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 13th Jan, 2026
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
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
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Health Advice
Dr. Meenakshi Pande
Ophthalmologist
22 Years • MBBS, DO, FICO, FRCS
Chennai
Apollo Speciality Hospitals OMR, Chennai
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Zennat Tajmin Shah
Ophthalmologist
24 Years • MBBS,DO,DNB (ophthalmology), Vitreo Retina Surgeon
Kolkata
Titanium Eye Care, Kolkata
Dr. Mridula V Amarnath
Ophthalmologist
12 Years • MBBS,MS (Opthalomology)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Venkateswaran Sivaprakasam
Ophthalmologist
42 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Ophthalmology
Tiruvannamalai
Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai
Dr Ranojit Basu
Ophthalmologist
24 Years • MBBS, DNB Ophthalmology, Diploma in Ophthalmic Medicine and. Surgery
Kolkata
Titanium Eye Care, Kolkata
Consult Top Eye Specialists
Dr. Meenakshi Pande
Ophthalmologist
22 Years • MBBS, DO, FICO, FRCS
Chennai
Apollo Speciality Hospitals OMR, Chennai
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Zennat Tajmin Shah
Ophthalmologist
24 Years • MBBS,DO,DNB (ophthalmology), Vitreo Retina Surgeon
Kolkata
Titanium Eye Care, Kolkata
Dr. Mridula V Amarnath
Ophthalmologist
12 Years • MBBS,MS (Opthalomology)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Venkateswaran Sivaprakasam
Ophthalmologist
42 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Ophthalmology
Tiruvannamalai
Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai
Dr Ranojit Basu
Ophthalmologist
24 Years • MBBS, DNB Ophthalmology, Diploma in Ophthalmic Medicine and. Surgery
Kolkata
Titanium Eye Care, Kolkata
