How Long Are Eyes Light Sensitive After Cataract Surgery?
Learn how long light sensitivity lasts after cataract surgery, why it occurs, and how to manage it for a smoother recovery and clearer vision.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 8th Oct, 2025
Introduction
Cataract surgery is a common and highly successful procedure that helps restore clear vision by removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial one. While the surgery itself is quick and relatively painless, recovery involves some temporary side effects, one of which is light sensitivity. If you’ve recently undergone cataract surgery or are planning to, you might wonder how long your eyes will remain sensitive to light and what you can do to ease discomfort.
Understanding Light Sensitivity After Cataract Surgery
Light sensitivity, also called photophobia, is a common experience after cataract surgery. The eye needs time to adjust to the new artificial lens (intraocular lens or IOL), and the healing process can make your eyes more reactive to bright lights.
Common reasons for light sensitivity:
Surgical Process: The eye is naturally sensitive after any surgical procedure.
New Lens Adjustment: The artificial lens may allow more light to enter the eye than before, especially if your cataract was dense.
Pupil Dilation: Eye drops used during surgery keep your pupil dilated for a few hours, increasing light sensitivity temporarily.
Inflammation: Mild swelling or irritation post-surgery can make the eyes more sensitive.
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 week after surgery. However, some may experience it for up to a month, depending on individual healing.
Typical Recovery Timeline:
First 24–48 Hours: Highest sensitivity due to dilation and immediate post-surgical effects.
First Week: Gradual improvement as the eye heals.
2–4 Weeks: Most patients notice a significant reduction in sensitivity.
Beyond a Month: If sensitivity persists, consult your eye doctor to rule out complications.
Tips to Manage Light Sensitivity
While your eyes heal, these simple steps can help reduce discomfort:
1. Wear Sunglasses
Use UV-protected sunglasses outdoors, even on cloudy days.
Polarised lenses can help reduce glare.
2. Adjust Indoor Lighting
Dim bright lights at home.
Use lampshades or softer lighting to avoid harsh glare.
3. Avoid Screen Strain
Reduce screen time on phones, computers, and TVs.
Use blue light filters if necessary.
4. Follow Doctor’s Instructions
Use prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops to reduce irritation.
Avoid rubbing your eyes.
5. Stay Hydrated & Eat Well
Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, such as carrots, spinach and citrus fruits support eye health.
Omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flaxseeds help reduce dryness.
When to See a Doctor
While mild light sensitivity is normal, contact your eye specialist if you experience:
Severe pain or worsening sensitivity.
Redness, swelling, discharge or other signs of infection.
Blurred vision, flashes of light or other possible retinal issues.
Sensitivity lasting beyond a month.
Final Thoughts
Light sensitivity after cataract surgery is usually temporary and improves within weeks. By protecting your eyes, following post-op care, and giving them time to heal, you’ll soon enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision.
If you have concerns or need personalised advice, consider booking a consultation with an Apollo24|7 eye specialist for expert guidance.
Consult Top Eye Specialists
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Health Advice
Dr. Sujit Pahari
Ophthalmologist
22 Years • MBBS, DNB, DOMS Ophthalmologist/ Eye Surgeon. FIC (Ophthal).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(25+ Patients)
Dr Monica Gour
Ophthalmologist
9 Years • MS(Ophthalmology) Fellowship in Cornea
Lucknow
Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow
Dr Deepti Govila
Ophthalmologist
26 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Shivani Grover
Ophthalmologist
9 Years • MS (Ophthalmology), Fellowship Cataract, Squint & Paediatric Ophthalmology
Lucknow
Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow
Dr Anoop Mishra
Ophthalmologist
10 Years • "MS (Ophthalmology), FVRS Phaco Fellowship, Retina Fellowship "
Lucknow
Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow
Consult Top Eye Specialists
Dr. Sujit Pahari
Ophthalmologist
22 Years • MBBS, DNB, DOMS Ophthalmologist/ Eye Surgeon. FIC (Ophthal).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(25+ Patients)
Dr Monica Gour
Ophthalmologist
9 Years • MS(Ophthalmology) Fellowship in Cornea
Lucknow
Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow
Dr Deepti Govila
Ophthalmologist
26 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Shivani Grover
Ophthalmologist
9 Years • MS (Ophthalmology), Fellowship Cataract, Squint & Paediatric Ophthalmology
Lucknow
Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow
Dr Anoop Mishra
Ophthalmologist
10 Years • "MS (Ophthalmology), FVRS Phaco Fellowship, Retina Fellowship "
Lucknow
Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow
