You should avoid sleeping on the side of your operated eye for at least one week, ideally sleeping on your back or the opposite side with a protective shield, but some doctors recommend these precautions for up to two weeks or longer, so always follow your surgeon's specific guidance for your recovery. The first week is critical, but continued care ensures proper healing without pressure or infection risk.
You can discard your eye shield the morning after your cataract surgery, but it's still advisable to sleep on your back for a couple of weeks so your eye doesn't come into contact with your pillow and pick up any particles from it. This will help your eye to heal and reduce the risk of infection.
The top recommendation from our cataract surgeons is to sleep on your back after cataract surgery. This position ensures that no pressure is inadvertently placed on the healing eye, allowing for optimal airflow and reducing the likelihood of accidentally rubbing or bumping your eye during sleep.
Shower and bathe as usual
You'll be able to shower and take a bath as usual after cataract surgery. Just remember to avoid any water or irritants, such as shampoo or soap, getting into your eye. We advise wiping your face with water rather than splashing water onto your face for the first 2 weeks.
Final Thoughts: Understanding Lens Settlement After Surgery
Many patients notice clearer sight within the first 24 to 48 hours, but full visual adaptation can take anywhere from two to twelve weeks, depending on the type of lens you've received, your age, and any pre-existing eye conditions.
It is estimated that between 0.05% and 3% of patients who have undergone cataract surgery will suffer from a spontaneous dislocation of the IOL. Some studies show that its incidence is higher 5 years after surgery.
Exercises to retrain your eyes
Washing Your Hair After Cataract Surgery
Washing your hair can be a bit trickier than showering, as there's a higher risk of soap or shampoo getting into your eyes. Here are some tips to safely wash your hair: Wait at least 24 hours after your surgery before washing your hair.
Allen Eghrari, ophthalmologist with the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine outlines five helpful tips to remember each day while recovering from cataract surgery.
There's a tiny wound where the lens was replaced. It needs time to seal fully. During this period, your eye is potentially more vulnerable. Getting water or shampoo in the eye could introduce bacteria or cause inflammation.
Do not drink anything except for clear water after midnight the night before surgery. If you do not fast, we will need to cancel your surgery. Take your daily medications as usual on the morning of surgery with small sips of water. If you are diabetic, do not take any oral diabetic medication the morning of surgery.
Nighttime and Naps
Whenever you sleep, whether it is during your eight hours of night-time rest or a brief afternoon nap, wearing the eye shield is mandatory.
Sleep As Much As You Need To
You will likely notice that you feel exhausted, especially once you get home after having cataract surgery. This is perfectly normal and you shouldn't try to fight it. Sleeping is a vital part of the healing process, but you will need to be careful.
Many patients experience better vision within the first 24 hours after surgery. Depending on your condition, you can take one to three days of rest and recovery or longer. You can perform simple activities such as reading, watching the television, and writing within three days of your cataract surgery.
The itchiness and dry eye typically go away within a month. If your symptoms persist beyond that, get in touch with your ophthalmologist. It's generally safe to rub your eyes months after your cataract procedure.
Patients need to use antibiotic, steroid, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drops. Antibiotics start two days before surgery, while steroids are tapered over weeks post-surgery. Proper drop administration is vital.
Yes, cataracts can be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010 if they have a substantial and long-term effect on your daily life. “Substantial” means your vision problems go beyond minor inconveniences—like struggling to read small print, coping with glare, or feeling unsafe in certain lighting.
However, patient noncompliance with prescribed eye drops is a prevalent issue in patients undergoing cataract surgery and may cause a less than optimal end result, with potential complications, such as infection or inflammation, and corneal abrasions from a bottle tip.
Hydration and Caffeine Consumption
Hydrating is not only critical for a healthy body but can also be beneficial in promoting healing after the procedure. You must limit your intake of caffeine beverages as part of your post-surgery care to ensure both general well-being and expedite recovery processes.
WASH HAIR WHILE UPRIGHT: The Betty Dain Hair Funnel is the ideal solution for washing, shampooing, and rinsing hair in an upright position. This simple yet convenient funnel is perfect for anyone who might have difficulty or discomfort using shampoo bowls or other traditional hair washing methods.
You will likely be advised to avoid bending over or lifting anything, even mildly heavy items such as a full kettle of water. During the first day or two, your eye needs to rest, and you need to prevent accidental rubbing or bumping.
Immediately after your cataract surgery, it's a good idea to just put your feet up and rest for the following few days. Try to avoid any heavy lifting, whether weights at the gym or shopping bags. It's advisable even to leave the housework, such as mopping and vacuuming until you're feeling well again.
Palming- A 30 Second Relaxation Retreat for the Eyes
Start by rubbing the palms together to warm them up. Place the palms of your hands gently over the eyes with your fingers extending upward toward the forehead. Close your eyes and relax. We like to count to 30, but you're welcome to go longer.
Additionally, if you already have cataracts, these vitamins and nutrients may slow their progression.
If your post-op vision is great at a distance but blurry up close, reading glasses can help you comfortably read, sew, or do other close work. Here's what to consider: Magnification Strength: Start with low strengths (+1.00 to +1.50) and adjust as needed.