Watery eyes are common after cataract surgery and frequently a normal part of the body’s healing process. This article aims to clarify why this occurs and what measures can be taken to manage the symptom.
Normal Temporary Watering
Watery eyes are a frequent and expected response immediately following cataract surgery. The eye undergoes minor trauma during the procedure, triggering increased tear production as a natural protective and healing mechanism. Surgical instruments and exposure to bright operating lights also contribute to this initial irritation, stimulating the tear glands.
Mild inflammation is common after cataract surgery and can also lead to increased tear production. This inflammation is typically short-term and managed with prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops. Additionally, delicate corneal nerves, which signal tear production, can be temporarily disrupted during surgery. This disruption can lead to temporary dryness, causing the eye to produce excess “reflex tears” to compensate for the perceived dryness.
The eye drops prescribed after surgery, such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications, are crucial for preventing infection and reducing swelling. However, these drops can sometimes contribute to surface irritation, leading to additional tear production. Most patients experience the most pronounced watering during the first few days to a week post-surgery, with symptoms gradually subsiding as the eye heals.
Other Reasons for Eye Watering
While immediate post-surgical watering is common, other factors can lead to watery eyes that might persist longer or emerge later in recovery. Dry eye syndrome is a significant cause, often leading to watery eyes as the eye attempts to lubricate itself. Cataract surgery can exacerbate pre-existing dry eye conditions or induce new ones by disrupting the tear film’s stability and temporarily affecting corneal nerves.
This condition, often characterized by a gritty or scratchy sensation, burning, or redness, triggers excessive tearing as the eye overcompensates for dryness. The temporary disruption of corneal nerves due to surgical incisions can reduce normal tear production, further contributing to this cycle. Sensitivity to light, often a symptom after cataract surgery due to pupil dilation and the eye’s adjustment to a new, clear lens, can also induce watering. Exposure to environmental factors like wind, dust, or allergens can further irritate the sensitive healing eye, leading to increased tearing. In some instances, a temporary blockage or swelling near the tear ducts, a result of the surgical procedure, can prevent tears from draining properly, causing them to overflow.
When to Contact Your Doctor
While some degree of watery eyes is normal after cataract surgery, certain accompanying symptoms are not and warrant immediate medical attention. Severe or increasing eye pain is a red flag, as normal post-operative discomfort should be mild and manageable. Significant vision loss or a sudden blurring that worsens also indicates a potential complication.
New or worsening redness, especially if it spreads or intensifies, should be reported to your doctor. Pus-like discharge, rather than clear or slightly mucousy tears, can signal an infection. Other concerning symptoms include new flashes of light, an increase in floating spots, or a “curtain” or shadow appearing in your field of vision, which could indicate a retinal issue. These symptoms are not typical for normal healing and require prompt evaluation to rule out severe complications such as infection (endophthalmitis) or retinal detachment.
Tips for Managing Watery Eyes
For typical, mild watery eyes during recovery, several at-home strategies can help provide comfort. Artificial tears, also known as lubricating eye drops, are often recommended to alleviate dryness and soothe irritation. Preservative-free formulations are often preferred, especially for frequent use, to avoid additional irritation.
Avoiding rubbing the eye is important, as this can interfere with healing and increase infection risk. Wearing protective eyewear, such as sunglasses, is important when outdoors to shield eyes from bright light, wind, and dust, which can trigger further tearing. Sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays are recommended.
Maintaining good hygiene around the eye is important; gently wipe from the inner to the outer corner with a clean cloth or sterile wipe. Avoid getting water or soap directly into the eye when showering or washing your face during initial recovery. Ensuring adequate hydration and using a humidifier indoors can also contribute to a more comfortable healing environment.