How Long Until I See Results After Cataract Surgery?

At Wicker Park Eye Center, our team often sees patients who are suffering from cataracts and need relief to improve their vision. With this condition, a cloudy area forms on the lens of the eye, causing blurry vision. As a result, patients develop a sensitivity to light, as well as difficulty driving at night, reading, or even identifying facial expressions.

Cataract surgery is often the best way to treat the condition and leave patients with clearer, sharper vision. One of the most common questions that patients ask is, “How long until I see results after cataract surgery?” During a consultation at our Chicago, IL, office, we detail the process and what you should expect after the procedure. Our goal is to ensure that patients achieve the best results.

What Happens During Surgery?

If you require surgery for both eyes, each procedure is normally scheduled on a separate day. Usually, the second eye is treated after the first eye has healed. At our Chicago office, we begin by numbing the area around the eye with local anesthesia. Once you are numb, we can make a small incision to access the lens where the cataract is located. A small probe is then inserted through the incision.

The probe uses gentle ultrasound waves to break the cataract into smaller segments, which are then suctioned out. An artificial lens can then be inserted in its place. Stitches typically are not needed since the incision is so small. The doctor will give you an eye shield or patch to wear over your eye to protect it for several days.

How Long Until I See Results?

As time goes on, individuals should continue to experience improved vision. However, patients should understand that results are not immediate.

First Day After Surgery

Immediately after surgery, some patients might remark on how clear their eyesight is due to the cataract being removed. However, some patients might experience wavy vision as their eyes adjust to the new artificial lens. This side effect should only last temporarily.

First Few Days

For the following few days after surgery, it is normal for your eyesight to appear blurry, cloudy, or hazy, especially after removing your shield or patch. Individuals are typically more sensitive to light.

First Two Weeks

After about one or two weeks, the vision should become sharper and clearer. Patients often report that their eyes can focus better on people and objects.

First Few Months

Though some patients attain fully restored vision within the first month, the majority of individuals achieve improved eyesight within two or three months. At this point, your doctor can provide you with a new prescription for your glasses or contacts for the best results.

What Can I Expect in the Long-Term?

Since most patients gain significantly improved vision after surgery, they can complete their daily activities with ease. As a result, many patients rely less on their glasses or contacts, and some patients may not need these visual aids at all. In some cases, patients might develop a secondary cataract. This is why patients need to visit our office regularly for check-ups to ensure their eyes have healed and are healthy.

Schedule a Consultation

Do you want to learn more about cataract surgery? If so, we encourage you to contact our Chicago office or go online to schedule a consultation. We can determine if you are a good candidate for cataract surgery and explain the procedure in more detail.