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Cataract Surgery Pre And Post Op Care

Understand essential pre and post-operative care for cataract surgery. Learn how to prepare, recover safely, and ensure optimal healing and vision restoration.

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Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025

Introduction

Cataract surgery is a common and safe procedure that helps restore clear vision when your natural eye lens becomes cloudy. If you or a loved one is preparing for cataract surgery, it’s natural to have questions about what to expect before and after the procedure. This guide will walk you through the essential steps for pre-op preparation and post-op care to ensure a smooth recovery.

What Is Cataract Surgery?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurry vision, glare, and difficulty seeing in low light. Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure is quick (usually 15–30 minutes) and performed under local anaesthesia.

Pre-Operative Care: Preparing for Surgery

Proper preparation helps ensure a successful surgery and smooth recovery. Here’s what you should do before your procedure:

1. Medical Evaluation & Tests

  • Your doctor will conduct a pre-operative eye exam to measure your eye shape, size, and vision.

  • You may need tests like optical biometry to determine the right IOL power.

  • Inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking, especially blood thinners (like aspirin). Some may need to be paused before surgery.

2. Arrange for Transportation

Since you won’t be able to drive immediately after surgery, arrange for a friend or family member to take you home.

3. Follow Fasting Instructions

You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before surgery if sedation is used.

4. Use Prescribed Eye Drops

Antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops may be prescribed a day or two before surgery to prevent infection.

5. Avoid Makeup & Contact Lenses

  • Do not wear eye makeup, lotions, or perfumes on the day of surgery.

  • If you wear contact lenses, switch to glasses a few days before the procedure.

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips

Dr. Rajeev Gupta, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Rajeev Gupta

Ophthalmologist

24 Years • MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology)

Ghaziabad

Om Eye & Gynae Centre, Ghaziabad

750

500

Dr. Dipak Soni, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Dipak Soni

Ophthalmologist

22 Years • MBBS,DO

Vadodara

Shiv Shakti Eye Clinic Phaco Centre, Vadodara

624

Dr. Vyankatesh Pharande, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Vyankatesh Pharande

Ophthalmologist

25 Years • MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology )

Pune

PHARANDE EYE HOSPITAL & PHACO CENTER, Pune

500

Post-Operative Care: Ensuring a Smooth Recovery

Recovery from cataract surgery is usually quick, but proper care is essential to avoid complications.

1. Immediate Aftercare (First 24–48 Hours)

  • Rest your eyes: Avoid straining them by reading, watching TV, or using screens excessively.

  • Wear the protective shield provided by your doctor while sleeping to prevent accidental rubbing.

  • Avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects to prevent pressure on the eye.

2. Use Eye Drops as Prescribed

  • You’ll be given antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops to prevent infection and reduce swelling.

  • Follow the exact schedule given by your doctor.

3. Protect Your Eyes

  • Avoid dust, smoke, and swimming for at least a week.

  • Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect against bright light and UV rays.

4. Watch for Warning Signs

While complications are rare, contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

  • Severe pain

  • Sudden vision loss

  • Increased redness or swelling

  • Flashes of light or floating spots

5. Gradual Return to Normal Activities

  • Light activities (walking, gentle chores) can resume within a day or two.

  • Driving should be avoided until your doctor confirms your vision is stable (usually a week).

  • Exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 2–4 weeks.

Diet & Lifestyle Tips for Faster Healing

Some of the diet and lifestyle tips for faster healing are:

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E (carrots, citrus fruits, leafy greens) to support eye health.

  • Stay hydrated to help with healing.

  • Avoid smoking, as it can slow recovery.

When to Expect Full Recovery?

Most people notice clearer vision within a few days, but full stabilisation may take 4–6 weeks. Follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor progress.

Conclusion

In conclusion, proper pre and post-operative care is essential for the success of cataract surgery and a smooth recovery. By following your ophthalmologist’s instructions, attending scheduled check-ups, and protecting your eyes during the healing process, you can maximise the benefits of the procedure and restore clear vision with minimal complications.

Consult Top Eye Surgeon

Dr. Rajeev Gupta, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Rajeev Gupta

Ophthalmologist

24 Years • MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology)

Ghaziabad

Om Eye & Gynae Centre, Ghaziabad

750

500

Dr. Dipak Soni, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Dipak Soni

Ophthalmologist

22 Years • MBBS,DO

Vadodara

Shiv Shakti Eye Clinic Phaco Centre, Vadodara

624

Dr. Vyankatesh Pharande, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Vyankatesh Pharande

Ophthalmologist

25 Years • MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology )

Pune

PHARANDE EYE HOSPITAL & PHACO CENTER, Pune

500

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips

Dr. Rajeev Gupta, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Rajeev Gupta

Ophthalmologist

24 Years • MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology)

Ghaziabad

Om Eye & Gynae Centre, Ghaziabad

750

500

Dr. Smriti Nagpal, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Smriti Nagpal

Ophthalmologist

13 Years • MBBS , MS (Ophthalmology)

New Delhi

Sunshine mediclinic, New Delhi

875

700

Dr. Dipak Soni, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Dipak Soni

Ophthalmologist

22 Years • MBBS,DO

Vadodara

Shiv Shakti Eye Clinic Phaco Centre, Vadodara

624

Dr. Sumit Rastogi, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Sumit Rastogi

Ophthalmologist

21 Years • MBBS,MS Opthamology

Kolkata

Trinity Clinic, Kolkata

500

No Booking Fees

Dr. Vyankatesh Pharande, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Vyankatesh Pharande

Ophthalmologist

25 Years • MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology )

Pune

PHARANDE EYE HOSPITAL & PHACO CENTER, Pune

500

Consult Top Eye Surgeon

Dr. Rajeev Gupta, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Rajeev Gupta

Ophthalmologist

24 Years • MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology)

Ghaziabad

Om Eye & Gynae Centre, Ghaziabad

750

500

Dr. Smriti Nagpal, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Smriti Nagpal

Ophthalmologist

13 Years • MBBS , MS (Ophthalmology)

New Delhi

Sunshine mediclinic, New Delhi

875

700

Dr. Dipak Soni, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Dipak Soni

Ophthalmologist

22 Years • MBBS,DO

Vadodara

Shiv Shakti Eye Clinic Phaco Centre, Vadodara

624

Dr. Sumit Rastogi, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Sumit Rastogi

Ophthalmologist

21 Years • MBBS,MS Opthamology

Kolkata

Trinity Clinic, Kolkata

500

No Booking Fees

Dr. Vyankatesh Pharande, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Vyankatesh Pharande

Ophthalmologist

25 Years • MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology )

Pune

PHARANDE EYE HOSPITAL & PHACO CENTER, Pune

500

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