Eye Surgeons @ Novena 38 Irrawaddy Road
#09-28
Singapore 329563
Cataract Surgery Recovery Tips
MBBS (S’pore), FRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (S’pore), FAMS (Ophth)
After cataract surgery, it is normal to experience mild discomfort, temporary blurriness, or sensitivity to light. These changes often raise common questions—how long recovery will take, when daily activities like work, driving or exercise can be resumed, and what is considered normal during healing. Knowing what to expect, along with essential dos and don’ts, can help ease concerns and support a smooth return to clear vision.
Cataract Surgery Recovery Timeline
The recovery timeline following cataract surgery varies based on your overall health and the condition of your eye before the procedure. Following essential recovery advice from your ophthalmologist not only ensures smoother healing but also minimises the risk of long-term complications.
First Week: The Initial Healing Phase
Weeks Two to Three: Gradual Resumption
Weeks Four to Six: The Final Stage of Recovery
Post-Operative Cataract Surgery Care: Dos and Don’ts
Properly caring for your eye after surgery is crucial for a smooth recovery and long-term vision. This involves adopting daily habits that protect your eyes from irritation, infection and accidental injury. Your ophthalmologist will advise you to:
Protect Your Eyes While Sleeping
Wearing an eye shield at night for the first week is a crucial step to protect your eyes. This physical barrier prevents accidental rubbing or pressure, ensuring your healing process remains undisturbed and minimising the risk of complications.
Prevent Infection and Injury
Always keep your hands clean before touching your face to reduce the risk of bacteria entering the eye. It is also vital to avoid rubbing your eye, as even a gentle rub can disturb the incision or move the intraocular lens.
Avoid Irritants and Contamination
Stay away from dusty or smoky areas, which can cause irritation. You should also avoid using eye makeup, face creams and other products for at least one to two weeks, as they can carry bacteria or irritants.
Refrain from Strenuous Activities
You should avoid swimming and heavy exercise for about two to six weeks after surgery. Water in these environments can introduce harmful microorganisms, while strenuous activity can increase intraocular pressure, which can disrupt the healing eye.
Attend All Follow-Up Appointments
Your follow-up appointments are vital. These visits allow your eye doctor to monitor your healing, check your intraocular pressure and detect any complications early.
Can I Fly After Cataract Surgery?
Most patients can safely fly after cataract surgery once their ophthalmologist confirms that the eye is healing well. While cabin pressure does not affect the operated eye, it is important to ensure your vision is stable and that you can manage your prescribed eye drops and medications while travelling. If you have complications or need close follow-up care, your doctor may advise postponing your trip.
When Will I Get My Final Glasses Prescription?
While many patients notice clearer vision within a few days after cataract surgery, the eye is still healing and adjusting. The cornea needs time to stabilise, the intraocular lens (IOL) must settle, and your brain gradually adapts to the new visual signals. For this reason, ophthalmologists usually wait four to six weeks before prescribing new glasses. By then, your vision is more stable, reducing the risk of frequent prescription changes during recovery.
Not everyone will need glasses after surgery, as this depends largely on the type of IOL implanted. The two main types are:
- Monofocal IOLs: The most common option, designed to correct vision at a single distance. If set for distance vision, you will likely still need reading glasses for close tasks such as menus or phone use.
- Multifocal IOLs: These lenses offer both near and distance correction, though some patients may still require glasses for intermediate vision.
Your surgeon will discuss the best lens type for your lifestyle and vision needs before the procedure.
When To Seek Immediate Care
Mild discomfort, tearing and blurriness are common after cataract surgery, but certain symptoms may indicate a complication and require urgent medical attention:
- Persistent or worsening pain that does not improve with pain relief medication
- Sudden loss of vision or new flashes of light and floaters
- Significant redness, swelling or discharge, which may signal an infection
- Nausea and vomiting accompanied by eye pain, which can indicate increased eye pressure
If you notice any of these warning signs, contact your eye specialist immediately. Prompt treatment can help prevent serious complications and protect your long-term vision. Should you have questions about the cataract surgery procedure and recovery, please do not hesitate to consult our ophthalmologist in Singapore. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
MBBS (S’pore), FRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (S’pore), FAMS (Ophth)
Dr Cordelia Chan is an established ophthalmologist in Singapore, with decades of experience in cornea and refractive surgery. She cares for both adults and children, offering comprehensive expertise across a wide range of eye conditions. Dr Chan began her training in 1993 and spent 21 years at the Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC), where she was Head of the Refractive Surgery Service.
Among the first in Singapore to perform bladeless LASIK, she is recognised for her expertise and strong commitment to patient care and safety. Today, she combines advanced diagnostic technology with a personalised approach to deliver the best possible outcomes for her patients.
Contact No. : | +65 6690 4154 |
| Email : | novena@eyesurgeons.com.sg |