What to Expect After Cataract Surgery

By Dr. Jake Trinidad, M.D. – Cataract Surgeon in San Antonio, TX

A Quick and Comfortable Procedure

Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful surgeries performed today, and thankfully, it’s also one of the quickest. The procedure itself typically takes about 10 minutes per eye and is performed under local anesthesia so that you won’t feel any pain. For added comfort, many patients also choose conscious sedation, which helps you relax throughout the process while remaining awake.

Before the surgery begins, numbing drops are applied to your eye, and you’ll be positioned comfortably under a microscope. You may notice bright lights or gentle pressure, but you won’t feel the instruments or lens placement. Using a technique called phacoemulsification, we break up and remove the cloudy natural lens and replace it with a clear artificial one. No stitches are needed, and once complete, your eye is protected with a shield as you head home the same day.

Most patients are surprised by how easy the procedure feels, and even more thrilled by how quickly their vision begins to improve.

First 24–48 Hours: Mild Symptoms Are Normal

As your eye begins to heal, it’s common to experience some mild, temporary symptoms. These include:

• Blurred vision as your eye adjusts to the new lens
• A mild foreign body sensation, like a piece of dust or an eyelash
• Light sensitivity, especially in bright environments

These symptoms are expected and usually improve within the first 24 to 48 hours. During this time, it’s important to follow your post-operative instructions closely. Wear your protective shield as directed, especially while sleeping, to prevent accidental rubbing or pressure on the healing eye. You can rest, watch TV in moderation, and even take short walks—but avoid activities that require straining or bending over.

To relieve dryness or irritation, artificial tears can be used (avoid red-eye or “get-the-red-out” drops). For discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen are typically all that’s needed. If anything feels unusual or concerning, don’t hesitate to call our office.

Back to Work by Monday

If your surgery is scheduled on a Friday, many patients feel well enough to return to desk work or light daily tasks by Monday. However, healing can vary slightly from person to person, and it’s essential to ease back into normal routines with care.

Be sure to:

• Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or vigorous exercise for at least one week. These activities can increase pressure inside the eye and interfere with healing.
• Do not rub your eye, even if it itches. Use your protective shield at night for the full week to prevent accidental contact during sleep.
• Stick to your eye drop schedule precisely. These drops reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and support healthy healing. Missing doses can delay your recovery.

If your job involves physical labor, dusty environments, or long hours on a screen, it’s best to check with our team before returning to work.

Light Adjustable Lens: Personalized Vision Enhancement

If you opted for a Light Adjustable Lens (LAL), your journey doesn’t end after surgery—it evolves.

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This lens allows us to customize your vision after surgery using controlled UV light treatments in our office. These light treatments begin around four weeks post-op, once your eye has healed enough for us to safely and accurately adjust the lens. Most patients require two to four treatments, each spaced a few days apart, followed by a final “lock-in” procedure to hold your personalized prescription in place.

During this period, you’ll wear special UV-protective glasses anytime you're awake and outside of a dark room. These prevent ambient UV light from unintentionally altering the lens before it's locked in. While it requires a bit more follow-up, this technology allows for the most precise vision correction available, tailored to your lifestyle—whether you want crisp driving vision, sharper reading ability, or better focus at a computer screen.

Post-Operative Care Guidelines

To promote safe, successful healing after cataract surgery, follow these essential guidelines:

• Use all prescribed eye drops exactly as directed. These typically include antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and steroid drops.
• Wear your protective shield at night for at least one week. This prevents rubbing or accidental pressure on the healing eye.
• Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting. Walking and light household tasks are okay, but hold off on exercise, yard work, or lifting anything over 10–15 pounds.
• Keep your follow-up appointments. These visits allow us to check your progress and make adjustments if needed.

You can resume showering the day after surgery, but try to avoid getting soap or water directly in your eye. We also recommend avoiding swimming pools, hot tubs, and eye makeup for at least two weeks after surgery.

When to Call Our Office

While cataract surgery is extremely safe and complications are rare, it’s important to know when to contact us. Call immediately if you experience:

• Increased or spreading redness in the eye
• New or worsening eye pain
• Vision that suddenly becomes more blurry or does not improve
• Flashes of light, new floaters, or a curtain-like shadow in your vision

These may indicate more serious issues like infection or retinal detachment. Early treatment is critical, so never hesitate to reach out. 

Clear Vision Starts Here

At Trinidad Vision Cataract and Laser Eye Institute, we’re passionate about helping our patients see clearly and confidently again. Cataract surgery isn’t just about restoring sight, it’s about restoring freedom, safety, and quality of life.

Whether you’re preparing for your first procedure or exploring advanced options like the Light Adjustable Lens, our San Antonio team is here to guide you every step of the way, with clear answers, compassionate care, and trusted results.

If you’re searching for an experienced cataract surgeon in San Antonio, we invite you to schedule a consultation today and see what a difference expert, personalized care can make.