What is the scariest complication of cataract surgery?

Asked by: Liza Funk  |  Last update: December 20, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (66 votes)

Vitreous loss also increases the risk of endophthalmitis, the most feared complication of intraocular surgery. The incidence of endophthalmitis may vary. Studies from Europe give the estimated incidence as 0.14%.

What are the symptoms of a botched cataract surgery?

Let's look at some of the most common cataract surgery complications.
  • Infection and inflammation. ...
  • Swelling and pain. ...
  • Light sensitivity. ...
  • Blurred vision. ...
  • Dislocated lens implant. ...
  • Retinal detachment. ...
  • Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) or 'second cataract' ...
  • Ptosis (droopy eyelid)

When is it too late to have cataract surgery?

Although it's never too late to have a cataract removed, it is better to have cataracts removed while they are immature, as this reduces the length of surgery and the recovery time. Earlier removal also means that you avoid the significant visual impairment associated with very mature (hypermature) cataracts.

What is the most common complication after cataract surgery?

A long-term consequence of cataract surgery is posterior capsular opacification (PCO). PCO is the most common complication of cataract surgery. PCO can begin to form at any point following cataract surgery.

What is the biggest complaint after cataract surgery?

1. Mild discomfort and itching after cataract surgery. Mild discomfort and itching are among the most common and immediately noticeable problems after cataract surgery, because it is natural for the eye to feel slightly irritated while it heals.

The Most Common Complication From Cataract Surgery! | Posterior Capsular Opacity & How To Treat It

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What are red flags after cataract surgery?

Go to eye casualty or A&E if you have:

severe pain after surgery. swelling of the eyelids. increasing redness, pain and blurring of vision in the days or weeks after surgery. distorted vision, wavy lines, flashing light or floaters that were not there before.

How many days rest is needed after cataract surgery?

Plan on taking one to three days off of work to be sure you have enough time to rest, but it is normal to resume most normal activities within a couple of days. Simple diversions like reading, watching TV, writing, and walking are okay to resume as soon as you feel up for it after your eye surgery.

How long do you have to sleep upright after cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery should not affect how you sleep, aside from wearing the protective eye shield to avoid rubbing the eye. Rubbing your eye or even water splashing in your eye can aggravate the chances of infection. You may also want to avoid sleeping on the side of the operated eye for the first 24 hours.

How long does it take for the brain to adjust to cataract surgery?

Depending on the lens and the patient, neuroadaptation may happen sooner, later or not at all. The majority of patients will adapt to multifocal IOLs within six to 12 months, according to Dr. Maloney. But about 10 percent of patients never will adapt.

What percentage of cataract surgeries go wrong?

At a conservative estimate, at least 25% (or 1.5 million) of the six million cataract operations performed annually in developing countries will have poor outcomes. About one quarter of these poor outcomes are due to surgical complications.

Do people ever regret having cataract surgery?

Dr. Basti said it's not uncommon for patients to be unhappy after what is otherwise a successful cataract surgery. He said that about a quarter of patients who experience this dissatisfaction will not actually spell it out for the surgeon, but if you probe, you'll get to why they are unhappy.

What happens if you wait too long to get cataract surgery?

The side-effects of cataracts can become much worse if you delay treatment, including: Cloudy, hazy, or blurred vision. Streaks or glare around lights. Poor night vision.

Who should avoid cataract surgery?

When isn't cataract surgery the right fit?
  • Are in poor health or have a serious medical condition.
  • Have advanced macular degeneration.
  • Have a detached retina.
  • Have a medical condition of the eyes, such as an infection.
  • Advanced diabetes that has affected your retina.
  • Have corneal diseases such as glaucoma.

What is the biggest risk with cataract surgery?

The biggest risk is infection (endophthalmitis), which can lead to severe complications but is very rare. Are there any long term side effects of cataract surgery? Long-term side effects are uncommon but may include posterior capsule opacification (PCO) or persistent dry eyes.

What is the regret rate for eye surgery?

90% of LASIK patients experience 20/20 vision after surgery. Furthermore, 99% of patients achieve 20/40 vision. Only 3% of patients regret getting LASIK.

Can a bad cataract surgery be redone?

Cataract surgery is irreversible. This is because the cloudy natural lens that results in a cataract is removed during surgery and cannot be placed back in.

Can you see 20/20 after cataract surgery?

Many people assume that cataract surgery will give them "perfect" 20/20 vision, but this isn't always the case. In fact, some people may still need glasses or contacts to see clearly after surgery. But this doesn't mean the procedure isn't worth it!.

Why can't you shower after cataract surgery?

Exposure to water can put your eyes at risk of infection or irritation until your eye has healed from surgery. “Give yourself at least one night of sleep before showering, and prevent the stream of water from hitting your eyes directly,” says Eghrari.

Why is 2nd cataract surgery harder?

Patients experienced more pain in the surgery of the second eye than that of the first eye, which probably related to lower anxiety before the second surgery. It suggests that we should consider preoperative intervention to reduce the perceived pain during second eye cataract surgery.

Are you sitting or lying down during cataract surgery?

The procedure is commonly carried out with you in a reclined position to ensure the stability and accessibility of your eye for the eye doctor or surgeon. You will typically be lying flat on your back or in a slightly inclined position, with proper head support to ensure comfort during the surgery.

What is the fastest way to recover from cataract surgery?

Avoid Strenuous Activity

For example, lifting heavy objects, visiting the gym, and bending over at the waist for long periods can place pressure on the incisions in your eye. Strenuous activity may also include vomiting or sneezing. It's best to take a few days from work to rest and recover after the surgery.

What happens if I accidentally bend over after cataract surgery?

What Happens if You Bend Over After Cataract Surgery? You should not bend over after cataract surgery for at least 2 weeks. Bending over will place pressure on the eye and this may cause unnecessary complications to your eye. The main complication will be a delay in the healing process.

What is the new cataract treatment for 2024?

Light-Adjustable Lenses (LAL)

Light-adjustable lenses (LALs) are a newer type of monofocal lens that allows patients to customize and refine their vision outcomes after their cataract surgery. LALs are made from a unique photosensitive material containing molecules called macromers.

How many days after cataract surgery can you watch TV?

Can I watch Television, Laptop/Computer and mobile after cataract surgery? Yes, you can watch television, computer/laptop and mobile one day after a routine cataract surgery. However, you may feel a little strain due to brightness, but it will wear off with time.

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

PREDNISOLONE (Prednisolone Acetate 1%)- Shake 10 times. This is an anti inflammatory medication to help the eye heal. One drop to the operated eye 4 times a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner and bedtime) for two weeks and taper as directed below.