Post-Cataract Surgery Blurriness: Concerns and Recovery Insights

Blurred vision after cataract surgery?

I would like to ask about my father, who underwent cataract phacoemulsification surgery on Friday, April 23.
He had an eye patch on after the surgery, and when he went for a follow-up appointment the next day, the vision was still blurry and not much clearer than before.
This morning, April 25, he woke up and still did not see any improvement; his eyes still feel like there is something irritating them.
I found online that most people who have cataract surgery can see clearly right after the patch is removed.
Since my father had a more advanced cataract, could this affect the speed of his vision recovery? Additionally, my father has a habit of smoking, but he hasn't smoked since the surgery.
I wonder if having a smoking habit could also impact his eyes.
Thank you for your assistance, doctor.

Miss Zhou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/25

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Ms.
Chou,
Some individuals recover quickly while others take more time, so after just two days, we still need to observe for a while longer to determine the recovery progress.
Surgery for advanced cataracts can sometimes affect the speed of recovery.
Smoking can impact the retina; however, it is uncertain whether it has affected your father's retina.

The Ophthalmology Department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is available on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses should only be used as a reference; it is essential to seek care at a medical facility if necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Best regards,
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2021/04/25

More Info

Post-cataract surgery blurriness is a common concern among patients, and it’s important to understand the typical recovery process and factors that might influence visual outcomes. After cataract surgery, especially phacoemulsification, many patients experience immediate improvements in vision, but this is not universal. Your father's experience of persistent blurriness and discomfort, such as a foreign body sensation, can occur for several reasons.

Firstly, it’s essential to recognize that the healing process after cataract surgery can vary significantly from person to person. While some individuals may notice clear vision almost immediately after the surgery, others may take a few days to weeks for their vision to stabilize. The eye undergoes a healing process that includes the resolution of inflammation and the adjustment of the new intraocular lens (IOL) that was implanted during the surgery.
The presence of blurriness can be attributed to several factors:
1. Residual Inflammation: After surgery, it’s common for the eye to be slightly inflamed, which can cause temporary blurriness. This inflammation usually resolves on its own, but in some cases, anti-inflammatory eye drops may be prescribed to help speed up the healing process.

2. Corneal Edema: Sometimes, the cornea can become swollen post-surgery, leading to blurred vision. This condition typically improves as the eye heals.

3. Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO): In some cases, the capsule that holds the IOL can become cloudy over time, leading to blurred vision. This is a common complication that can occur months or even years after surgery and can be treated with a simple outpatient procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy.

4. Visual Acuity Adjustment: If your father had significant cataracts prior to surgery, his brain may need time to adjust to the new visual input. This adjustment period can contribute to temporary visual disturbances.

Regarding your father's smoking habit, it is well-documented that smoking can have adverse effects on eye health, including an increased risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. While smoking may not directly affect the immediate recovery from cataract surgery, it can influence overall eye health and the risk of developing other ocular conditions in the future. It’s commendable that he has refrained from smoking since the surgery, as this will benefit his recovery and long-term eye health.

In terms of recovery, it is crucial for your father to follow up with his ophthalmologist as scheduled. If the blurriness persists beyond a week or two, or if he experiences increased pain, redness, or any other concerning symptoms, he should seek medical attention promptly. The ophthalmologist may perform a thorough examination to rule out any complications and determine the best course of action.

In summary, while some blurriness after cataract surgery can be normal, it’s essential to monitor the situation closely. Encourage your father to maintain his follow-up appointments and communicate any ongoing issues with his eye care provider. With time and appropriate care, many patients experience significant improvements in their vision post-surgery.

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