Understanding cataracts
Aftercare: keeping an eye on healing
After the operation you see your surgeon twice more. He checks healing and result, and you get clear guidelines for the first weeks.
Two follow-ups
Aftercare with your surgeon, not with a stranger
The doctor who operated on you knows your eye and the result he expects. That is why he carries out both follow-ups himself.
- 1
First follow-up
within 14 daysYour surgeon assesses the early healing phase: eye pressure, wound, position of the lens implant. He checks whether anything needs treatment and answers everything that has come up in the first days.
- 2
Final examination
after 4 to 6 weeksWith dilated pupils, the final result of the operation is assessed. If you need glasses for reading or fine-tuning, you receive the prescription now. Afterwards, your regular check-ups can continue with your usual eye doctor.
The first weeks
Guidelines for everyday life
These are the guidelines we give our patients. At the follow-ups we check your personal progress.
Eye drops
Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops for a few weeks, on a simple written schedule.
Protecting the eye
A protective shield for the first nights. Do not rub the eye, and keep water and soap out of it.
Outdoors
Daylight is fine from day one. Sunglasses help with the early light sensitivity.
Screens and reading
Allowed as soon as it feels comfortable, usually after a day or two.
Sport and lifting
Light activity after a few days. Heavy lifting, swimming and sauna wait about two weeks.
Flying
Usually possible within a few days after an uncomplicated operation. We confirm it at the first follow-up.
Questions about aftercare
What matters after the operation
When can I drive again?
As soon as your vision meets the legal standard and you feel confident. We measure it at the first follow-up and tell you clearly where you stand.
When can I go back to work?
Screen and office work usually after a few days. For physically heavy or dusty work, we discuss the timing at the first follow-up.
When will I see the final result?
Vision usually improves within the first days and settles over several weeks. The final result is assessed at the final examination. We make no blanket promises; every eye heals at its own pace.
Which symptoms are normal, and which are not?
Normal in the first days: mild scratchiness, light sensitivity and a reddened eye. Not normal: increasing pain, a sudden drop in vision or strong redness with a feeling of pressure. In those cases contact us immediately, also outside the scheduled follow-ups.
What is a secondary cataract?
Months or years after the operation, the back of the lens capsule can cloud over and vision deteriorates again. This is not the cataract returning, but a clouding of the capsule, which is treated in a few minutes with the YAG laser. More under Other eye operations.
Do I need check-ups after aftercare is complete?
Yes, the usual eye check-ups continue, with your usual eye doctor or with us. You receive a written report on the operation, the lens and the result to pass on.
Take the first step: a clear diagnosis
The cataract assessment gives you certainty about your eyes, a personal recommendation and a fixed quote. It commits you to nothing.