What symptoms may occur after cataract surgery?
Nov 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Mild eye pain, blurred vision, photophobia with tearing, foreign body sensation, and small amounts of discharge may occur after cataract surgery. These are usually normal postoperative reactions and will gradually resolve as healing progresses. If severe pain, sudden vision loss, or significant bleeding occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. Surgical trauma may cause transient discomfort, typically manifesting as a feeling of pressure or sharp pain.
After cataract surgery, mild eye pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity with tearing, foreign body sensation, and small amounts of discharge may occur. These are usually normal postoperative reactions and will gradually improve as the eye heals. However, if severe pain, sudden vision loss, or significant bleeding occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.
1. Mild eye pain: Temporary discomfort such as aching or stabbing pain may result from surgical trauma. It is typically most noticeable within the first 1–2 days after surgery. Pain can be relieved with analgesics or anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed by your doctor, and usually resolves gradually within 3–5 days.
2. Blurred vision: Corneal swelling and incomplete adaptation to the artificial lens may cause blurred vision. You might initially see halos around lights. Vision typically improves progressively and stabilizes after the swelling subsides in about 1–2 weeks.
3. Light sensitivity and tearing: Surgical irritation increases eye sensitivity, making you prone to tearing and difficulty opening the eyes in bright light. This is a normal protective response. Wearing sunglasses can help reduce discomfort, which generally improves over approximately one month.
4. Foreign body sensation: A mild sensation of something rubbing against the eye—like a tiny particle—may occur during incision healing. Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent infection. This sensation usually disappears within 2–3 weeks as the incision heals.
5. Small amounts of discharge: After surgery, the eye may produce thin, pale yellow discharge, which is a normal sign of resolving inflammation. Gently wiping the corners of the eye daily with sterile cotton swabs is sufficient. Increased discharge may indicate infection and should be monitored closely.
Maintain good eye hygiene after surgery and avoid getting dirty water into the eye. Avoid strenuous exercise, bending over, or lifting heavy objects in the short term. Minimize eye strain by limiting prolonged screen time. Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables containing vitamins to support eye recovery.
