Crying after cataract surgery is a common concern, but it is generally safe during recovery. Tears are a natural part of the eye’s function and healing process, and light crying typically does not interfere with the surgical outcome. It is understandable to experience a range of emotions after surgery, including relief or even discomfort, which might lead to tears. The primary concern is not the tears themselves, but rather the actions often associated with crying, such as rubbing or pressing on the eyes.
Tears and the Healing Eye
After cataract surgery, the eye is in a healing phase where a new artificial lens has been implanted. A small, usually self-sealing incision is made to remove the cloudy natural lens and insert the intraocular lens. The integrity of this incision is important for proper healing and to prevent complications. Rubbing or applying pressure to the eye can potentially disrupt this healing area or introduce external contaminants.
Tear production may temporarily increase after surgery due to light sensitivity or dryness, which is a normal response. However, the physical act of vigorous crying, which can involve squeezing the eyelids tightly or rubbing the eyes, poses a risk. Such actions could exert undue pressure on the surgical site or compromise the sterile environment.
Practicing Safe Crying
If the urge to cry arises after cataract surgery, manage tears without touching or applying pressure to the healing eye. The goal is to allow tears to flow naturally without interfering with the surgical site. Keep clean tissues readily available to gently dab tears.
Instead of wiping across the eye, lightly press the tissue to the cheek or the outer corner of the eye, away from the eyelids, to absorb the moisture. This technique helps prevent accidental contact with the eye itself and reduces the risk of introducing bacteria. Avoid any forceful rubbing, squeezing, or wiping motions that could place stress on the eye. Maintaining good hand hygiene is also important; ensure hands are clean before touching near the eyes. Wearing the protective shield provided by the doctor, especially during sleep, can also help prevent inadvertent rubbing.
Recognizing Warning Signs
While crying itself is usually not problematic, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention, especially if they occur after or are accompanied by crying. Any sudden decrease in vision or a worsening of blurred vision after initial improvement should be reported to your surgeon. Persistent or increasing eye pain that does not subside is also a concern.
Other warning signs include excessive redness around the eye, new or worsening swelling, or any discharge from the eye that appears yellow or green. The appearance of new flashes of light or an increase in the number of floaters in your vision also requires prompt evaluation by an eye care professional. These symptoms are generally not related to tears but indicate a potential complication that needs timely assessment and management.