Cataract surgery replaces the eye’s clouded natural lens with an artificial one, restoring clear vision. Patients can generally eat after the operation, but careful dietary choices are important for a smooth recovery. Making these choices, especially in the initial hours and days, can significantly impact the healing process and help prevent potential complications.
Immediate Post-Operative Meal Planning
The main dietary goal in the first 12 to 24 hours after surgery is to prevent nausea and vomiting, which can strain the delicate incision site. Since anesthesia and pain medication can cause stomach upset, starting with very light, easily digestible foods is recommended. Clear liquids, such as water, clear broth, or apple juice, are the safest starting point once you return home.
Once your stomach feels settled, slowly progress to bland, soft foods that require minimal effort to chew. Options include plain toast, yogurt, scrambled eggs, or a simple soup. Adequate hydration is also important, so consistently sip water or herbal teas throughout the day.
Strictly avoid foods that are greasy, heavily spiced, or rich, as these are more likely to cause stomach distress. Highly processed foods and those high in added sugar should also be limited. Taking a gradual approach to eating minimizes the risk of straining the eye due to vomiting.
Dietary Strategies for Managing Eye Pressure
Beyond the first day, diet plays a role in managing intraocular pressure (IOP) and healing. Preventing constipation is a major concern, as straining during a bowel movement (the Valsalva maneuver) can increase pressure inside the eye. To address this, a diet rich in high-fiber foods, including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, is recommended.
Consistent water intake is equally important, as proper hydration helps keep bowel movements soft, working synergistically with dietary fiber. This strategy helps ensure that you do not need to push or strain, protecting the surgical site from undue pressure.
Managing your intake of sodium, caffeine, and alcohol is also advised for a smoother recovery. Excessive sodium consumption can lead to fluid retention, potentially impacting eye pressure; limit salty snacks and processed foods. Both caffeine and alcohol can have dehydrating effects, which may exacerbate dry eye symptoms common after surgery.
Essential Non-Dietary Recovery Instructions
While diet supports internal healing, certain physical restrictions are necessary to protect the newly operated eye externally. For the first few weeks, avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity. Similarly, avoid bending over at the waist, as this action causes a sudden rush of blood pressure to the head that can stress the eye.
Protecting the eye from accidental injury and infection is another important aspect of recovery. This involves wearing a protective shield or glasses, especially while sleeping, to prevent rubbing or bumping the eye. Your surgeon will prescribe specific eye drops, which must be administered exactly as directed to control inflammation and prevent infection.
Take care when showering or washing your hair to avoid getting water, soap, or shampoo directly into the eye. Dust, wind, and environments with excessive light should also be avoided, making UV-protected sunglasses helpful when outdoors. Adhering to these instructions is important for achieving the best possible visual outcome.