HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECOVER FROM CATARACTS SURGERY? RECOVERY PROCESS AND IMPORTANT NOTES

Cataracts are one of the common eye diseases, often found in the elderly. As the disease progresses, the patient's vision will be impaired and can even lead to blindness if not treated promptly. Artificial lens replacement surgery is currently the only treatment method that can restore vision to the patient. To achieve good visual quality after surgery, the patient needs to follow the instructions on proper eye care and rest scientifically during the recovery process afterwards. The following article will provide patients with detailed information about the recovery process after cataract surgery and important notes to maximize treatment results.

Why is cataract surgery necessary?

Cataracts are a phenomenon in which proteins in the lens clump together, blocking light from passing through and reaching the retina, causing vision loss. This is the leading cause of blindness in the world, accounting for more than 50% of cases of permanent vision loss. When vision drops below 6/10 or the patient feels uncomfortable during daily activities and work, the doctor will prescribe surgery to replace the artificial lens to treat cataracts.

If treatment is delayed, the patient may experience symptoms such as headaches and severe eye pain due to increased pressure in the eye. In the advanced stages, the lens can gradually harden, the pupil sticks together, making the prognosis for surgery poor, causing difficulties during surgery and damage to surrounding tissues. In some serious situations, when surgery to replace the cataract cannot be performed, the patient even has to undergo surgery to remove the eyeball to stop the inflammation process and reduce the risk of other complications.

Currently, there are two popular and effective cataract surgery methods, which are Phaco surgery and Laser Cataract surgery. The common point of these two methods is the mechanism of pulverizing the cataractous lens with high-frequency ultrasound waves and sucking it out, then replacing it with an artificial lens to restore vision. However, the difference between these two methods lies in the use of laser technology in Laser Cataract surgery. Specifically, in this method, some manual operations of the surgeon such as creating an incision, creating a tear in the capsule, and splitting the cloudy lens will be performed with a Femtosecond Laser, helping to increase accuracy and minimize risks for the patient compared to traditional manual operations.

How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?

The recovery process after cataract surgery usually takes place through the following stages:

• In the first 24 hours: Immediately after surgery, the patient may feel that the vision is still slightly blurred and there is a feeling of something stuck in the eye, however, these symptoms will gradually decrease after about 4 - 6 hours. During this time, the patient needs to wear protective glasses, use antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs and artificial tears as prescribed by the doctor, and rest at home on the first day after surgery.
• In the first week: After 2 - 3 days, patients can read books and newspapers, use electronic devices, do light exercise and live normally. Note that patients need to avoid strenuous activities or exposure to dusty environments to limit the risk of infection. Patients need to continue to follow the medication schedule and return for check-ups as directed by the doctor.
• In 2 - 4 weeks after surgery: Most patients can return to normal activities. However, recovery time may vary depending on each person's condition, some patients may take up to 3 - 4 months to fully recover. Regular monitoring and check-ups with the doctor during this period are very important to assess the recovery process and promptly detect abnormalities.

Important note: patients may experience some symptoms after cataract surgery such as sensitivity to light, watery eyes, temporary increase in intraocular pressure, etc. These are normal symptoms and will gradually improve over time. Patients need to follow the regular check-up schedule at 1 day - 1 week - 1 month - 4 months after surgery. If there are any unusual signs, the patient needs to come back for a check-up immediately so that the doctor can examine and intervene promptly.

Factors affecting recovery time after cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is quite quick, usually taking only about 15 minutes for most patients. However, each patient's eye recovery time may vary, depending on the following factors:

• Age and history of eye surgery: Elderly people or patients who have had previous eye procedures/surgeries may have a higher risk of complications after cataract surgery, thereby prolonging the recovery time. Problems related to eye aging or previous eye health conditions can also affect the recovery rate.
• Underlying diseases: Eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, corneal disease, retinal detachment can reduce the ability to restore maximum vision after surgery. These diseases need to be strictly controlled during treatment and postoperative monitoring.
• Eye care: Patients who do not comply with the doctor's eye care instructions will make the recovery process take longer. Patients who do not fully comply with instructions on eye care after surgery (such as using medication properly, protecting the eyes from external agents, not touching the eyes) can slow down the recovery process and increase the risk of infection or other complications.
• Complications: Although cataract surgery is very safe, in some rare cases, patients may experience some complications during and after surgery (posterior capsule opacification, lens dislocation, temporary increase in intraocular pressure, infection), requiring additional treatment and prolonging the recovery time.
• Patients can minimize factors that slow down the eye recovery process by choosing a reputable treatment facility, highly skilled surgeons, modern machinery systems, strict cataract surgery and re-examination procedures, and following post-operative eye care instructions.

At Japan International Eye Hospital, patients can rest assured that their cataract surgery will be performed according to Japanese standards, with a team of leading experts in Vietnam, a leading machinery system in Southeast Asia, comprehensive care services, and unlimited free re-examination within 4 months after surgery.

Patients share their experience with cataract surgery at Japan International Eye Hospital

Some important notes after cataract surgery

To ensure optimal surgical results and help the eyes recover quickly, patients need to note the following:

• Use medication as prescribed: antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops in the correct dosage, at the correct time, and in the correct manner as instructed by an ophthalmologist.
• Wear protective glasses: Patients need to wear protective glasses 24/7 for at least the first 3 days, even when sleeping, to protect their eyes from dust, impact and external factors that can cause damage.
• Follow the regular check-up schedule: Patients need to have regular check-ups: 1 day, 1 week, 1 month and 4 months after surgery. In addition, patients need to have a check-up immediately if there are any unusual symptoms such as pain, blurred vision or other signs.
• Avoid impact on the eyes: Patients need to avoid applying pressure, not rubbing their eyes, not letting their hands come into direct contact with their eyes and avoid any collision that can damage the recovering eyes.
• Get adequate rest: Within the first month after surgery, patients need to get enough rest, avoid strenuous activities, carrying heavy objects and especially not swimming to reduce the risk of infection and protect the eyes from unwanted effects.

Cataract surgery is an effective treatment to restore vision to patients with cataracts. Recovery after surgery is usually quick and painless, if the patient does not have an underlying medical condition or a history of eye surgery. However, to achieve optimal results, patients need to strictly follow the doctor's instructions on medication use, eye care, and post-operative follow-up visits.