Cataract Recovery Time
Cataract surgery is one of the most common medical procedures performed in the United States. In one year, more than one million people undergo cataract surgery in the hopes of having clear vision restored. And indeed, with the success rate for this surgery, the odds are they will. However, cataract surgery in San Diego is still surgery, and as with any operation, there is a recovery period with strict instructions that must be adhered to.
Immediately following San Diego cataract surgery, you will not see clearly. After all, your eye or eyes have just been through a traumatic experience and need time to heal. Although the surgery is done on a outpatient basis and you can go home soon after, it will not be safe for you to drive so you must make sure you have already arranged for a ride home from the surgery center. The next day, you will have a follow up visit with your doctor to make sure there are no immediate complications. And actually, you will have several follow up visits over the next few weeks and months to make sure your eyes and vision are healing correctly.
Home care is also of the utmost importance. Remember to wear the large dark sunglasses that your doctor gave you right after your San Diego cataract eye surgery to protect your eyes from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Also, avoid any makeup near the eyes, as well as harsh creams, lotions or perfumes. Any kind of debris from these items can cause infection, which you most certainly want to avoid. You will also be prescribed prescription antibiotic eyedrops. Take these exactly as directed and do not miss a dose. You may feel fine, but infection is a possibility when any kind of surgery is performed, even if you do make sure no cosmetics are near your eyes. Antibiotics can help you avoid an unwanted infection. And, if you need to touch your eyes, make sure you do so with thoroughly clean hands. All of these measure help prevent infections. They may not be foolproof, but they do lessen the odds.
In a few weeks, you will find your vision has improved immensely and it will continue to improve more in the coming months. Your recovery will be monitored by your doctor, and once your vision has proven to have stabilized, if you had worn glasses before, you will be examined and fit for a new prescription. What you thought may be blurred vision for the rest of your life, has finally become clear.
