What to Expect After Minimally Invasive Cataract Surgery

Minimally invasive cataract surgery is one of the safest, most effective ways to restore clear vision. Understanding the recovery process can make the journey smoother if you or a loved one is preparing for this procedure. 

In Rapid City, South Dakota, and Casper, Wyoming, Cory Bergman, MD, offers minimally invasive cataract surgery that may help prevent the condition from worsening. Everyone’s experience varies, but here’s a helpful guide to what you can expect in the days, weeks, and months after your surgery.

The first 24 hours after surgery

Right after surgery, you spend about 30 minutes to an hour in a recovery area before heading home. You may feel groggy from the anesthesia, but it usually wears off quickly. Your eye might feel slightly irritated or gritty, similar to having a speck of dust in your eye. You also wear a protective shield to prevent accidental rubbing or pressure on your eye.

For the first day, we recommend resting your eyes and avoiding actions that could increase pressure, such as bending over, lifting heavy objects, or getting water in your eye. Following these instructions is important to avoid complications and allow the eye to heal properly.

Vision improvements within the first week

Most patients notice vision improvements within just a few days. Colors may appear more vibrant, and things may seem sharper than before. Don’t be alarmed if your vision is slightly blurry or if it fluctuates — it’s normal as your eye adjusts to the new lens. We often schedule a follow-up appointment within the first day or two to check your progress.

We prescribe eye drops to help prevent infection and reduce inflammation. These drops are crucial for a smooth recovery and should be used as directed. Avoid strenuous activities and wear sunglasses outdoors, as your eyes may be more sensitive to light in the days following surgery.

Getting back to your daily life

Two to three weeks after surgery, you should start feeling more like yourself. Reading your favorite book? Go ahead. Catching up on emails? That's fine, too. Just remember to take regular breaks. A relaxing walk in the park is perfect, but skip the swimming pool for now. And keep those dusty home projects on hold a bit longer.

If you notice something different about your vision or feel a twinge of discomfort, call us right away – we're here to help. Keep using the eye drops and show up for your follow-up visits. 

The road to full recovery

The next month or two brings exciting progress. We check your vision during follow-up visits, ensuring everything's healing perfectly. Most patients reach their best vision during this time. Think sharper colors, clearer details, and a whole new way of seeing the world. These improvements aren't temporary – they're here to stay.

Is cataract surgery right for you?

Minimally invasive cataract surgery requires some recovery time. But the truth is most patients find it smoother than expected. Some days, your vision might seem crystal clear, while others might fluctuate slightly. That's perfectly normal. Trust the process. Soon, you'll see everything in vivid detail.

We're just a phone call away if you have questions or need more information. Schedule your appointment online or call our office – let's talk about giving you the clear vision you deserve.