Cataract surgery removes the eye’s clouded natural lens, replacing it with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This common, successful procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis. A period of careful recovery is necessary afterward to ensure the best visual outcome and prevent complications. Patients often want to know the appropriate timeline for resuming everyday activities, such as watching television.
Understanding the First 24 Hours After Surgery
The immediate period following cataract surgery is reserved for rest and initial healing. Your eye may feel gritty, watery, or mildly uncomfortable, and some temporary blurriness or light sensitivity is common as the eye adjusts to the new lens. These sensations are normal, but any severe or worsening pain should be reported to your surgeon immediately.
A protective shield is often placed over the eye immediately after the procedure to prevent accidental rubbing or pressure, which could disrupt the healing of the tiny incision. This shield must be worn as instructed, especially during sleep for the first week, to safeguard the eye. You will also begin a prescribed regimen of antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops, which are crucial for preventing infection and managing swelling.
The primary instruction for the first 24 hours is to take it easy and avoid activities that cause strain or might introduce bacteria. Although the incision seals almost immediately, the tissues are vulnerable to pressure and irritants. This initial rest ensures the surgical site remains stable and the healing process starts effectively.
Returning to Screen Time and Reading
Most surgeons advise that patients can safely return to watching television or using digital screens within a few hours to a day after the procedure, provided they feel comfortable and vision is adequate. Screen time will not cause physical harm to the eye’s structures or the new lens implant. However, eyes may tire quickly due to initial adjustment and blurriness, so moderation is advised.
When you do resume screen time, it is important to take frequent breaks to reduce eye strain and fatigue. A helpful guideline is the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Adjusting the screen brightness and contrast can also minimize glare, especially since the eye may be more sensitive to light initially.
For close-up tasks like reading or using a phone, you may experience temporary difficulty focusing, particularly if your final glasses prescription has not yet been determined. If you had a monofocal lens implanted, you will still need reading glasses for near work, and your surgeon will advise when it is safe to obtain an updated prescription. Start with short sessions of 20 to 30 minutes for any focused visual activity and gradually increase the duration as your eyes feel more rested.
Essential Restrictions Beyond Screens
While screen time resumes quickly, other physical activities carry a higher risk of complication and must be restricted longer. Activities that increase pressure inside the eye, such as heavy lifting, straining, or bending over, should be avoided for at least one to two weeks. Most surgeons recommend avoiding lifting anything weighing more than 10 to 15 pounds during this period.
Protecting the eye from water and contaminants is paramount to prevent infection. Avoid getting tap water, soap, or shampoo directly into the eye for the first week. When showering, tilt your head backward or away from the treated eye. Swimming, hot tubs, and saunas must be avoided for a minimum of two weeks due to the significant risk of bacterial exposure.
Driving is strictly prohibited until your eye doctor confirms that your vision meets the legal standard and is stable, often after the first post-operative check-up.
Monitoring Your Visual Recovery
Visual recovery continues long after the first few days, with full stabilization typically taking several weeks. It is important to continue using the prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops exactly as directed. Adherence to this schedule manages inflammation and protects the eye from infection, directly influencing the final outcome.
You should remain vigilant for specific warning signs that could indicate a complication requiring immediate medical attention. Contacting your surgeon without delay if you experience any of these symptoms is crucial for a successful recovery. These urgent signs include:
- A sudden and significant decrease in vision.
- Severe or worsening eye pain not relieved by over-the-counter medication.
- A noticeable increase in redness or swelling.
- New flashes of light.
- A sudden shower of new floaters.
- A dark shadow moving across or obscuring part of your vision.