TL;DR
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful procedures carried out, with thousands of people regaining clearer sight each year. However, if your vision seems to be getting worse after surgery, it is natural to feel concerned.
If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Understanding why your vision might deteriorate after cataract surgery can help you make informed decisions and seek the right support. Keep reading to explore the possible causes, what to do about them, and when you should consult a specialist.
What is considered ‘normal’ healing after cataract surgery?
Before worrying about complications, it is important to remember that some fluctuations in vision are completely normal during the initial recovery period. It typically takes a few days to several weeks for your eyes to fully adjust to the artificial lens implanted during surgery.
During this period, you might notice:
- Blurred or hazy vision
- Mild discomfort or dry eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Glare or halos around lights
These side effects are usually temporary and improve as your eyes heal. Using prescribed eye drops as directed and attending follow-up appointments is crucial to support a smooth recovery.
Common reasons your vision may worsen
If your vision continues to decline or becomes blurry after the initial healing period, there could be an underlying issue. Here are some common causes:
Posterior capsule opacification (PCO)
One of the most frequent causes of post-surgery vision changes is posterior capsule opacification, also known as a secondary cataract. This occurs when the back of the lens capsule, the part left behind to hold the new lens becomes cloudy.
Although it feels like your cataract has returned, PCO is not a new cataract. It may happen weeks, months, or even years after the procedure.
The good news is that it is easily treatable with a quick, painless laser procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy. Most people notice an improvement in their vision shortly after the treatment.
Dry eye or surface irritation
Cataract surgery can temporarily reduce tear production or affect the eye’s surface, leading to dryness, grittiness, or blurry vision. These symptoms may be more noticeable if you already had dry eyes before the operation.
Using lubricating eye drops and avoiding air-conditioned or windy environments may help relieve discomfort and improve clarity.
Incorrect lens power
Although cataract surgery involves precise measurements, there is still a slight chance the lens implanted may not fully correct your vision as expected. This can result in residual refractive errors like astigmatism or short-sightedness, making your sight appear worse than it should be.
You might need glasses for certain tasks, or in some cases, your surgeon may discuss further options like laser vision correction.
Less common but serious complications
Some conditions may be less common but require urgent attention if they develop after surgery.
Cystoid macular oedema (CMO)
This condition causes swelling at the centre of the retina (macula), leading to blurry or distorted central vision. It typically appears a few weeks post-surgery and can affect your ability to read or see fine details.
CMO is often treated with anti-inflammatory drops or injections and usually resolves with prompt care.
Retinal detachment
Although rare, retinal detachment is a serious condition where the retina peels away from the back of the eye. It can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated immediately.
Warning signs include sudden flashes of light, a shadow across your vision, or an increase in floaters. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency care without delay.
Infection or inflammation
Infections (endophthalmitis) after cataract surgery are rare but can be severe. Symptoms such as eye pain, redness, severe blurred vision, or discharge should never be ignored. Early treatment with antibiotics can help preserve your sight.
What should you do next?
If you are worried about your vision after cataract surgery, do not ignore the symptoms. It is always best to speak to your ophthalmologist or optometrist, even if you think it is just a minor issue.
Make sure to:
- Attend all your scheduled follow-up appointments
- Report any sudden or unusual changes in vision
- Use your eye drops exactly as prescribed
- Avoid rubbing your eyes or exposing them to dust and smoke
Seeking help early can often prevent complications and improve your chances of maintaining good sight in the long term.
Regaining peace of mind and clarity
While cataract surgery is highly effective for most people, it is understandable to feel unsettled if your vision does not improve as expected. In many cases, the issue is minor and treatable, especially when addressed early.
Do not wait and hope it clears up on its own. Whether you are experiencing blurriness, discomfort, or something more serious, speaking to an eye care professional is the best way to protect your vision.
For long-term eye health, regular check-ups and honest conversations with your doctor are essential. Your eyes deserve proper care, and so do you.
