What is the commonest complication of cataract surgery?

Asked by: Frankie Gusikowski  |  Last update: November 29, 2023
Score: 4.5/5 (6 votes)

The medical term for this common complication is known as posterior capsule opacification ( PCO ). This happens when the back of the lens capsule — the part of the lens that wasn't removed during surgery and that now supports the lens implant — becomes cloudy and impairs your vision.

What is the most feared complication of cataract surgery?

Although the incidence of endophthalmitis is only 0.13%, this remains the most feared complication of cataract surgery with a potential devastating effect.

What are the most common problems after cataract surgery?

Complications
  • Posterior Capsule Rupture/Vitreous loss.
  • Cystoid Macular Edema.
  • Endophthalmitis.
  • Vitreous/Suprachoroidal Hemorrhage.
  • Retinal Tears/Detachment.
  • Lens Dislocation.

What are red flags after cataract surgery?

Red flags include: Loss of vision, whether increasing blur or entire areas of black/grey in your visual field. Any discharge from the eye. Increasing redness of the whites (sclera)

What percentage of cataract surgeries have complications?

From a total of 602,533 cataract procedures, the incidence of capsular complications was 2.1%.

THE MOST COMMON COMPLICATION AFTER CATARACT SURGERY: What is Posterior capsular opacification.

44 related questions found

How long does it take to recover from cataract eye surgery?

The full recovery period for cataract surgery typically lasts around 8 weeks, during which you will likely have several follow-up appointments with your eye doctor to ensure proper healing. While the full recovery period lasts around two months, 9 out of 10 patients are seeing better immediately following surgery.

What are the symptoms of bad cataract surgery?

Symptoms that cause concern
  • A sudden decrease in vision.
  • Redness in or around the eye that persists after two days.
  • Continued sensitivity to light.
  • Discharge from the eye.
  • Pain that continues.
  • Fever, nausea or vomiting.
  • Sudden increase in floaters, or flashing lights.

What happens if you bend over after cataract surgery?

“High eye pressure can interfere with the incision before it fully heals,” says Eghrari. “Positions that put your head below your waist, such as bending over, can also increase eye pressure and should be avoided initially after surgery.”

How long to wear eye shield at night after cataract surgery?

take it easy for the first 2 to 3 days. use your eye shield at night for at least a week.

How do I know if my lens has moved after cataract surgery?

Patients with a dislocated IOL may experience a decrease or change in vision, diplopia, and/or glare. Additionally, they may report ocular pain or headaches from intermittent angle-closure and/or inflammation. Some patients also report seeing the edge of the IOL.

Why did my vision get worse after cataract surgery?

Inflammation in the eye can happen after cataract surgery, but it is typically harmless. Any inflammation within the eye following cataract surgery is the body's natural response to having the eye's lens removed. This reaction causes blurry vision, but your eye doctor can prescribe medication to help.

Can the lens move after cataract surgery?

In the procedure, the cataract (cloudy lens) is removed, and a clear intraocular (in-the-eye) lens is placed. Rare complications include intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation, where the lens moves out of place.

What happens if you don t wear sunglasses after cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery and sunglasses

Either way, the surgery has still left your retina vulnerable, and even if you have an IOL with that UV coating, you're still at risk to eye damage due to UV rays. You could even cause your cataracts to return as UV rays are one of the leading causes of cataracts.

What is the best eye drops for dry eyes after cataract surgery?

Systane moistens the eyes, thus, relieving dry eye symptoms such as irritation, burning, and discomfort. This product is superior to other traditional eye drops because it binds to the tears to form a gel-like film, offering long-lasting relief. It is safe to use Systane as a soothing eye drop after cataract surgery.

How long after cataract surgery can I watch TV?

You can read or watch TV right away, but things may look blurry. Most people are able to return to work or their normal routine in 1 to 3 days. After your eye heals, you may still need to wear glasses, especially for reading. This care sheet gives you a general idea about how long it will take for you to recover.

What happens if you lift heavy objects after cataract surgery?

Since increased eye pressure can lead to glaucoma – which can cause blindness if left untreated – it is important to regulate eye pressure in the days and weeks following cataract surgery. Strenuous activity can lead to raised eye pressure, so patients should limit exercise after cataract surgery.

How soon can you sleep on your side after cataract surgery?

People should try to avoid sleeping on the same side of the operated eye for 1 week.

Should I wear my old glasses after cataract surgery?

In this case, your old prescription glasses won't match the newly operated eye; however, there is no harm wearing them if they help the opposite eye. If the old prescription lens is way off or bothersome, it can be removed from that side of your eyeglass frame.

When should I worry about cataract surgery?

Like the halos that you see around lights, cataracts could cause double vision. Double vision occurs when your lens becomes diffracted. Driving at night while experiencing halos and double vision is a scary experience! This can be disorienting and distracting and is a good indicator that you may soon need surgery.

How long do you use prednisolone eye drops after cataract surgery?

Prednisolone (Pred-Forte) and loteprednol (Lotemax) are the most commonly prescribed steroid eye drops after cataract surgery. You may need to use these eye drops 2 to 4 times a day. Expect to continue using them for 2 to 6 weeks after surgery. You'll be able to cut back on how often you use them as time goes on.

Can I drive 2 days after cataract surgery?

Driving After Cataract Surgery

Post-surgery, it's common for vision to be blurry for a few days. Many people can drive again within 24 hours. However, it's highly recommended you do not drive until you've seen your eye doctor after the surgery. Your ophthalmologist may recommend you wait a few more days before driving.

What is the success rate of cataract surgery?

Most people do exceedingly well with cataract surgery. Its success rate is about 99 percent. Complications from cataract surgery are rare but may include corneal swelling and/or inflammation in the eyes.

Does your eyesight stay the same after cataract surgery?

No, your vision generally doesn't deteriorate after cataract surgery unless other problems arise, such as macular degeneration or glaucoma. In cataract surgery, the eye doctor (ophthalmologist) removes the clouded lens from your eye and replaces it with a clear, artificial lens.

What foods should you avoid after cataract surgery?

Foods to avoid after cataract surgery
  • refined carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta, chips, and cereal.
  • sugar.
  • foods high in salt.
  • processed foods, such as fast food or “junk” foods.