Cataract Surgery: Recovering from IOL Placement
Premium multifocal intraocular lenses, or IOLs, have made cataracts a blessing in disguise for many people. By replacing the eye’s natural lens, which is removed during cataract surgery, with a multifocal IOL, many patients emerge from surgery with better unaided vision than they’ve had in decades, if not since they were children. Some are even able to function without ever having to wear glasses or contact lenses again.
One of the greatest benefits of IOLs is that they can be placed with remarkable precision during cataract surgery as part of a minimally invasive procedure. The highly skilled eye surgeons of Monterey Eye Associates use the latest, most advanced technology to determine the proper strength and placement of the IOL for each individual patient so that the best possible results can be achieved each and every time.
While cataract surgery and IOL placement are extremely safe, they remain serious surgical procedures and, as such, do involve a period of recovery. Fortunately, this recovery period is usually brief, and the risk of complications is extremely low. Our eye surgeons discuss IOL placement recovery in detail during consultations at our Monterey, CA eye care center so that patients know precisely what to expect after their procedures.
If you would like to discuss your IOL options or cataract surgery recovery, please schedule your initial consultation at Monterey Eye Associates today.
What to Expect after IOL Placement
Your recovery from IOL placement will, of course, coincide with your recovery from cataract surgery. Both procedures are minimally invasive and should occur without incident. Likewise, your recovery should be brief and uneventful. Most of our patients are able to return to work the day after surgery, although some patients choose to take extra time off.
After your IOL has been placed, you will need to have someone drive you home from our office, as your eyes will be highly sensitive to light and glare. We will provide you with a pair of sunglasses, as well as a shield to protect your eyes when you are sleeping during your recovery.
Some patients are able to see clearly immediately after having their IOLs placed; however, many patients require time to adapt to their new lenses. You may experience “waves” in your vision for an hour or so; this is common and nothing to be nervous about. Most patients achieve optimal visual clarity as their eyes heal. For some, this may occur within hours of surgery; for others, this may occur within one or two weeks.
During the first week after surgery, it is important not to engage in any strenuous activity, bend over (especially for extended periods), use a swimming pool or hot tub, rub your eyes, or expose your eyes to the elements. When you go outside, wear your sunglasses, and be careful in general not to bump into objects.
Learn More about IOL Placement Recovery
To learn more about recovering from IOL placement and cataract surgery in general, please contact Monterey Eye Associates today.
