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Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Wet vs Dry Macular Degeneration

Don’t be intimidated by its big name. Macular degeneration is the term for a manageable eye condition that impairs our vision as we age. Whether you’re one of the millions who have been diagnosed with macular degeneration or you’re here to improve your eye health, you may have heard people refer to two types — “wet” and “dry” macular degeneration. So, what’s the difference between the two?

The purpose of this guide is to answer that question, and it starts with a general understanding of macular degeneration.

Senior shows symptoms of having Age-related macular degeneration

What is Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, represents the primary cause of vision loss among adults over 60. It affects the macula, a crucial part of the retina responsible for central vision processes such as facial recognition, reading, and driving.

This condition develops when the macula begins to deteriorate over time, causing central vision loss while leaving peripheral vision intact. While AMD typically doesn't cause complete blindness, it can significantly impact a person's quality of life by making everyday activities more challenging as the condition progresses.

What is Dry Macular Degeneration?

Dry macular degeneration accounts for 85-90% of all AMD cases and is characterized by the gradual deterioration of the macula and the accumulation of drusen, small deposits of cellular debris in the retina.

While this form typically progresses at a slower rate than wet AMD, it can still lead to significant central vision impairment if left unmonitored. And because dry AMD can sometimes develop into the more serious wet form, regular eye examinations are essential for tracking its progression.

What is Wet Macular Degeneration?

Wet macular degeneration, though less common than dry macular degeneration, represents the more severe form of AMD and requires immediate medical attention. The hallmark of this condition is the abnormal growth of blood vessels beneath the retina, which can leak blood and fluid, causing rapid and severe damage to central vision.

Since there is no treatment for wet macular degeneration, early detection is crucial to managing its symptoms. During this stage, patients may notice straight lines appearing wavy or distorted. These changes should prompt an immediate consultation with your eye care specialist.

Symptoms of Macular Degeneration?

Those over 60 should be aware of the potential wet and dry macular degeneration symptoms, particularly in their early stages, as timely detection is crucial for managing AMD.

  • Early and Intermediate Stages
    • Minimal to no noticeable symptoms initially
    • Mild blurriness in central vision
    • Difficulty adapting to low-light conditions
    • Dulled intensity of colors
    • Need for brighter light when reading or doing detailed work
  • Advanced Stages (Wet or Dry)
    • Straight lines appearing wavy or bent
    • Dark or blurry spots in the center of vision
    • Progressive growth of blind spots in central vision
    • Difficulty recognizing faces
    • Problems with reading, driving, or performing detailed tasks

Treatments for Macular Degeneration

Managing AMD requires a personalized approach based on the type and stage of the condition. While limited, here are the current treatment options available:

  • Dry Macular Degeneration Treatment
    • Regular monitoring through comprehensive eye exams.
    • Lifestyle modifications, including exercising regularly and quitting smoking.
    • Nutritional support through eye-healthy foods (fish, leafy greens, yellow fruits).
    • AREDS2 vitamin and mineral supplements for intermediate stages.
    • Advanced cases may be prescribed one of two new FDA-approved injectable medications, including pegcetacoplan or avacincaptad pegol.
  • Wet Macular Degeneration Treatment
    • Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections have shown vision stabilization in 90% of patients and vision improvement in 33%.
    • Laser photocoagulation surgery to seal leaking blood vessels.
    • A combination of photodynamic therapy, laser treatment, and anti-VEGF injections has proven successful in select cases.

FAQs: Wet AMD vs Dry AMD

Which form of macular degeneration is more severe?

While both types can impact vision, wet macular degeneration is generally considered more serious as it can cause rapid vision loss due to leaking blood vessels. Even though dry macular degeneration progresses more slowly, it should still be monitored carefully since it can develop into the wet form.

What are the chances of dry AMD progressing to wet AMD?

Approximately 10% of patients with dry macular degeneration will develop the wet form. Regular monitoring by your eye care specialist is crucial for early detection of any changes, as prompt treatment of wet AMD can help preserve vision.

Can macular degeneration be prevented?

While there's no guaranteed way to prevent AMD, several lifestyle choices can reduce your risk:

  • Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams
  • Maintain a healthy diet rich in leafy greens and fish
  • Exercise regularly
  • Avoid smoking or quit if you currently smoke
  • Protect your eyes from UV exposure
  • Consider vitamin supplements if recommended by your doctor

How often should I get my eyes checked if I have AMD?

The frequency of eye exams depends on your AMD type and stage. Generally, those with early AMD should have comprehensive exams at least annually, while those with more advanced stages may need frequent monitoring. Your eye care specialist will recommend an appropriate schedule.

Can I continue driving with macular degeneration?

Early-stage AMD permits continued driving, especially during daylight hours. However, as the condition progresses, you should discuss driving safety with your eye care provider, as they can best assess your visual capabilities and make appropriate recommendations.

Is LASIK Permanent? Understanding the Longevity of LASIK Surgery

woman getting lasik eye surgery

LASIK surgery is one of the most highly sought-after treatment methods for people suffering from refractive eye issues. Over 700,000 patients get LASIK surgery every year, due to the promise of immediate improvement in eye vision quality. While Lasik surgery is permanent, explore the different factors that can increase or decrease the procedure’s long-term effectiveness. 

Understanding LASIK

What is LASIK? 

LASIK is a surgical eye procedure that improves refractive eye errors, helping patients see clearly when focusing on certain things. By using precise and controlled movements, the corneal tissue of the eye is removed using a laser, which permanently reshapes the cornea. This results in clearer vision.

How Does LASIK Work?

There are three stages of LASIK, including preparation, surgery, and post-operative care:

Stage 1: Preparation

Before scheduling a procedure, it’s important to find a reputable surgeon who has years of experience performing LASIK surgery. Your surgeon should consult you about the treatment and its associated risks, including the potential need to make lifestyle changes including wearing contacts, makeup, and perfumes. Lastly, you should invite someone to attend your appointment so that they drive you home after your procedure.

Stage 2: Laser Surgery

There are two steps during LASIK surgery:

  1. Corneal flap creation
  2. Reshaping cornea with excimer laser

Through these two steps, the corneal tissue is removed to permanently reshape the cornea. With the laser’s precise mechanics, the procedure can take less than 20 minutes. However, depending on the severity of your eyes’ refractive error, more time may be required. 

The procedure generally requires ten minutes of operating room time, during which the laser is used for less than a minute on each eye. However, the actual duration of the procedure may vary according to the type and amount of correction needed.

Post Operative Care:

After receiving LASIK surgery, it is important to keep your eyes safe from any external forces that can impact the effectiveness of your treatment including: 

  • Wearing sunglasses
  • Avoiding swimming
  • Not smoking
  • Not wearing make-up the first week after surgery
  • Limiting the amount of time spent reading

How Long Does LASIK Surgery Take? 

Though the actual procedure may take only 10 minutes for each eye, the overall surgery can last for 20 minutes. Most patients frequently finish their procedure within 30 minutes or less. 

With a speedy recovery time, your eyes begin to heal immediately after the procedure is finished. Nevertheless, to reach full recovery, it may take four to six weeks to see full results. 

Eye Exam

How Long Does Lasik Eye Surgery Last? Is Lasik Permanent?

If you’re wondering “How long does LASIK last?”, the good news is that it’s permanent. Though LASIK is considered a permanent surgery (because of the cornea’s physical reshaping), the effectiveness of the procedure can decrease after a while. Most patients will experience the results for their entire lifetime, whereas about 2% of patients in the U.S. will need a touch-up.

Factors Affecting Longevity

Some eligible patients may wonder “Does LASIK wear off?”, and the answer is that there are many factors that can impact the longevity of your LASIK effectiveness including:

  • Age when the surgery was received
  • Prescription stability at time of surgery
  • Underlying eye conditions
  • Ability to follow post-operative care requirements
  • Lifestyle factors
  • Environmental factors

With 99% of patients achieving 20/40 vision after LASIK surgery, the procedure has a high patient satisfaction rate of 96%. 

Vision Conditions Corrected by LASIK

Because LASIK improves how light rays affect the retina, eye conditions with refractive errors caused by eye shape issues are most likely to see benefits. Refractive errors can occur when a patient’s cornea limits light bending, leading to blurry vision. LASIK eye surgery most commonly fixes the following eye conditions:

Myopia (Nearsightedness)

Occurs when your cornea is overly curbed or your eyeball is extra long, making it hard to see far-away objects. 

Hyperopia (Farsightedness)

Occurs when your cornea is overly flat or your eyeball is too short, making it hard to see close-up objects. 

Astigmatism

When your vision is blurry whether something is far away or near because of an irregularly shaped cornea.

Ophthalmologist performing an exam

Eligibility for LASIK Surgery

If you’re wondering “How old do you have to be for LASIK?”, we have all the answers. To be eligible for LASIK eye surgery, a patient needs to meet all eligibility requirements to meet safety regulations including:

  • Patients need to be 18 years of age or older
  • Have generally good eye health and overall health
  • Have had a stable eye prescription for at least one year
  • Understand the risks and complications associated with the procedure. 

To ensure patients are equipped to handle all stages of the procedure, they must be fully evaluated by an ophthalmologist to limit risk and unexpected situations from occurring. 

LASIK Enhancement Surgery

Though over 90% of patients achieve 20/20 vision, the long-lasting effects can diminish over time. Some patients may find that they need LASIK enhancement flap lift surgery to keep the quality of eyesight they gained during their initial procedure. Oftentimes, enhancement surgery is the preferred choice if you need a tune-up within 3-6 months of your first treatment. 


There are a couple of factors that can impact a patient needing enhancement surgery including:

  • The initial severity of your refractive error
  • A more severe case of nearsightedness or farsightedness
  • A more severe case of astigmatism

Ready to Experience the Benefits of LASIK?

If you’re considering investing in LASIK eye surgery, it’s important to find a qualified eye surgeon with years of experience in the field. 

At Speciality Eye Institute, we are committed to ensuring each of our patient’s vision problems are treated with the utmost level of care. For more information about our LASIK and LASIK enhancement flap lift surgery, reach out to our team. 

Our board-certified ophthalmologists and eye doctors are the first-choice providers for residents in Mid-Michigan and Northwest Ohio.

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Why Does My Vision Get Blurry At Night?

Blurry driving at night is a common issue that can significantly impact daily life. Many people ask, "Why does my vision get blurry at night?" This problem can affect activities such as driving, walking, or simply enjoying an evening out. Understanding the causes of nighttime blurry vision and exploring potential solutions is crucial for improving quality of life and safety after dark.

What is Night Blindness?

Night blindness, also known as nyctalopia, is characterized by difficulty seeing in low light or darkness. It is not a disease in itself but rather a symptom of various underlying eye conditions. People with night blindness often struggle to see clearly in dimly lit environments, making it challenging to perform activities like driving at night or navigating in poorly lit areas.

Common Symptoms of Night Blindness

Night blindness can manifest in various ways, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. Common symptoms include:

  • Difficulty seeing in low-light conditions
  • Trouble adapting to darkness after being in bright light
  • Poor vision while driving at night
  • Frequent tripping or bumping into objects in dim lighting
  • Difficulty recognizing faces or objects in low light

Related Content: Winter Driving and Nighttime Vision Blurriness

blurry vision driving at night

Causes of Blurry Vision at Night

Blurry vision at night can result from various issues. Here are some common causes and their effects on night vision.

Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the eye's lens becomes cloudy, causing vision problems.

  • Impact on Night Vision: Cataracts scatter light, creating glare and halos around lights at night, leading to blurred vision.

Dry Eye

Dry eye syndrome results from insufficient tear production or rapid tear evaporation.

  • Effect on Nighttime Visual Acuity: Blurred vision can get worse at night if the eyes aren’t producing enough tears for moisture.

Diabetes

Diabetes can cause diabetic retinopathy, where high blood sugar damages retinal blood vessels.

  • Association with Night Vision Impairment: This damage leads to blurred vision and difficulty seeing at night due to impaired light processing in the retina.

Other Common Causes

  • Aging: Natural changes reduce the pupil's ability to dilate, impairing night vision.
  • Retinitis Pigmentosa: A genetic disorder causing gradual vision loss and poor night vision.
  • Vitamin A Deficiency: Lack of vitamin A leads to night blindness and other vision problems.
  • Excessive Light Exposure: Prolonged bright light or screen exposure strains the eyes, causing temporary night blurriness.

bad vision driving at night

How is Night Blindness Diagnosed?

Diagnosing night blindness involves several key steps by eye specialists to determine the cause and severity.

Diagnostic Procedures

  1. Comprehensive Eye Exam: Assesses overall eye health and vision clarity.
  2. Patient History: Gather information on symptoms, duration, and underlying health conditions.
  3. Visual Acuity Test: Measures vision at different distances to identify refractive errors.
  4. Slit-Lamp Examination: Magnified view of eye structures to detect abnormalities.
  5. Retinal Exam: Checks the retina and optic nerve for signs of damage or disease.
  6. Electroretinography (ERG): Measures retina's electrical response to light, diagnosing retinal conditions.
  7. Dark Adaptation Test: Evaluates how well eyes adjust from bright to dim lighting.

How is Night Blindness Treated?

Treating night blindness involves addressing its underlying cause. Here are the treatment options for specific conditions:

Cataracts

Surgical Options:

  • Cataract Surgery: The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. This is the most effective treatment for restoring vision affected by cataracts.

Non-Surgical Options:

  • Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses: Special lenses can help improve vision, although they do not cure cataracts.
  • Improved Lighting: Using brighter lights can help manage symptoms temporarily.

Dry Eye

Management Strategies:

  • Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops can relieve dryness and improve comfort.
  • Prescription Medications: Medications like cyclosporine (Restasis) can reduce inflammation and increase tear production.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Reducing screen time, using a humidifier, and taking regular breaks can help alleviate symptoms.
  • Warm Compresses and Lid Hygiene: These can improve oil gland function and reduce dry eye symptoms.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Treatment Modalities:

  • Blood Sugar Control: Managing blood sugar levels is crucial to prevent the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
  • Laser Surgery: Used to seal or shrink abnormal blood vessels in the retina.
  • Vitrectomy: Surgical removal of the vitreous gel in the eye can help in severe cases.
  • Anti-VEGF Injections: Medications like Avastin, Lucentis, or Eylea are injected into the eye to reduce blood vessel growth and leakage.

Vitamin A Deficiency

Dietary Interventions and Supplementation:

  • Dietary Changes: Increasing the intake of vitamin A-rich foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and liver.
  • Supplements: Vitamin A supplements can help correct deficiency and improve night vision. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplements.

Ophthalmologist

How to Prevent Night Blindness

Preventing night blindness involves proactive measures to maintain healthy vision and minimize risk factors. Here's how:

Routine Eye Exams

Regular check-ups with an eye care professional are crucial for detecting and addressing vision issues early. Comprehensive exams can identify conditions like cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and vitamin deficiencies that may contribute to night blindness.

Vitamin A Intake

Ensure an adequate intake of vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and night vision. Incorporate vitamin A-rich foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and liver into your diet. If necessary, consider supplements under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Sunglasses Usage

Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses whenever you're outdoors, even on cloudy days. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can increase the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions that may affect night vision.

Physical Activity

Engage in regular exercise to promote overall health, including eye health. Physical activity improves blood circulation, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the eyes. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Eye Care With Specialty Eye Institute

For those experiencing bad vision driving at night, professional eye care is crucial. At Specialty Eye Institute, we offer personalized diagnosis and treatment plans. 

Don't ignore nighttime visual disturbances—trust our experienced team to provide expert guidance and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to you. Schedule an eye examination with Specialty Eye Institute today to prioritize your eye health and take the first step towards clearer vision. 

Three Types of Tears and What They’re Made Of

Tears are more an emotional response; they are a fundamental part of your eyes' health and function. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricate world of tears, explore their multifaceted nature and the vital role they play in maintaining optimal ocular health.

What are Tears Made Of?

Tears are a blend of various components, each serving a unique purpose to help keep your eyes healthy and functional.  Tears consist of three primary parts:

Mucus

  • Provides a sticky base that helps tears adhere to the surface of the eye.
  • Aids in spreading tears evenly over the eye's surface, ensuring proper lubrication and hydration.
  • Facilitates the binding of tears to the underlying epithelial cells, promoting eye comfort and clarity.

Water

  • Constitutes the bulk of tears, providing hydration to the eye surface and washing away debris and foreign particles.
  • Helps maintain the pH balance of tears, ensuring optimal conditions for ocular health.
  • Essential for maintaining the transparency of the cornea and facilitating clear vision.

Lipid

A lipid is a fatty, oily, or waxy compound that is insoluble in water. In tears, they:

  • Form a thin outer layer that helps prevent tears from evaporating too quickly.
  • Help maintain the stability of the tear film, reducing tear evaporation and promoting longer-lasting lubrication.
  • Enhance tear film integrity, protecting the eye from environmental factors such as wind, dust, and dry air.

What Are The 3 Types of Tears?

Tears serve a variety of purposes, and different types of tears are produced in response to specific stimuli or needs. The three primary types of tears are:

Basal Tears

Basal tears are always being produced to keep the eye moist and lubricated. These tears are essential for maintaining the health and integrity of the ocular surface. Basal tears also help protect the eye from debris and foreign particles, ensuring clear vision and comfort.

Emotional Tears

Emotional tears are triggered by strong emotions such as sadness, joy, or stress. These tears contain higher levels of stress hormones and natural painkillers, which may contribute to the cathartic effect often associated with crying. Emotional tears serve as a form of emotional expression and can help alleviate emotional distress.

Reflex Tears

Reflex tears are created in response to external stimuli or debris, such as makeup, smoke, dust, or onions. These tears help flush out irritants and protect the eyes from potential harm. Reflex tears are typically more watery than basal tears and serve as a rapid defense mechanism to maintain ocular health and comfort.

How Are Tears Made? Dry Eye Treatment Options at Specialty Eye Institute

Tears are produced by a complex process involving various glands located around the eyes. Here's a breakdown of how tears are made:

Lacrimal Glands

  • Located above each eye.
  • Release the watery component of tears in response to emotional or environmental stimuli.

Accessory Lacrimal Glands

  • Found in the eyelids and conjunctiva.
  • Contribute mucus to tears, enhancing their viscosity and adherence to the ocular surface.

Meibomian Glands

  • Situated along the eyelid margins.
  • Produce lipid components that help stabilize the tear film and reduce tear evaporation.

All of these glands work together in a coordinated manner to produce a precise balance of water, mucus, and lipid components that comprise tears.

The combined efforts of these glands ensure the continuous production and distribution of tears.

What Causes Dry Eyes If Tears Are Always Being Made?

Dry eyes can occur when there is a disruption in the production or quality of tears, leading to inadequate lubrication of the eyes. Several factors can contribute to this condition:

  • Age: As we get older, tear production tends to decrease, leading to dry eyes.
  • Environmental Factors: Exposure to dry or windy climates, smoke, air conditioning, and heating can all contribute to dry eyes.
  • Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren's syndrome), diabetes, thyroid disorders, and rheumatoid arthritis can affect tear production.
  • Medications: Some medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and hormone replacement therapies, can cause or exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
  • Eyestrain: Prolonged use of digital screens, reading, or driving can lead to decreased blinking and contribute to dry eyes.
  • Eyelid Problems: Conditions such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) or meibomian gland dysfunction can affect the quality of the tear film.

Identifying and addressing the underlying causes of dry eyes is crucial for managing this condition and maintaining ocular comfort and health.

When to See a Doctor for Dry Eyes

If you experience persistent or severe symptoms of dry eyes, it's advisable to consult an eye care professional. Additionally, if over-the-counter remedies and lifestyle changes do not alleviate your symptoms, or if you notice changes in your vision, such as blurred vision or difficulty performing daily tasks, seeking medical attention is essential.

If you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medications that may contribute to dry eyes, discussing your symptoms with a healthcare provider can help ensure appropriate management and treatment. Early intervention can prevent potential complications and improve your overall eye health and comfort.

If dry eye symptoms persist, worsen, or begin affecting your vision or daily life, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with an eye care professional like the dry eye experts at Specialty Eye Institute to get the right treatment and protect your long-term eye health.

What Causes Watery Eyes?

Watery eyes, or epiphora, can result from various factors such as eye irritation, inflammation, blocked tear ducts, eye infections, or eyelid abnormalities.

Excessive tear production is often a response to these issues, leading to watery eyes.

Watery Eye Symptoms

  • Excessive tearing or watery discharge from the eyes
  • Blurred vision due to excessive tearing
  • Irritation or discomfort in the eyes
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Redness and inflammation of the eyes
  • Crusting or sticky discharge around the eyes, especially upon waking
  • Difficulty wearing contact lenses comfortably
  • Feeling like there's something gritty or foreign in the eye
  • Occasional or frequent blinking to clear tears from the eyes
  • Difficulty keeping the eyes open for extended periods due to excessive tearing

When to See a Doctor for Watery Eyes

If you experience persistent or bothersome symptoms of watery eyes, it's advisable to consult an eye care professional. Additionally, if watery eyes are accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as eye pain, redness, vision changes, or discharge, seeking medical attention is essential.

Furthermore, if over-the-counter remedies or home care measures do not alleviate your symptoms, or if you have a pre-existing eye condition, consulting a doctor is recommended. Prompt medical evaluation can help identify the underlying cause of watery eyes and determine the appropriate treatment to alleviate discomfort and improve eye health.

Schedule an Appointment with Specialty Eye Institute

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, such as dry eyes, watery eyes, or discomfort, it's essential to seek professional help. Contact Specialty Eye Institute today to schedule an appointment and receive personalized care and treatment tailored to your eye health needs.

Don't wait any longer to address your eye concerns. Let SEI doctors help you maintain optimal eye health and vision.

What to Expect During Cataract Surgery Recovery

man putting eye drops in for cataract surgery recovery

Millions of people undergo successful cataract surgery every year. It’s a safe, effective procedure that can drastically improve your vision, and the recovery process is generally fast and simple. There should be minimal discomfort or pain.

Most people can return to their normal activities within a few days. A little bit of prepping and a good few days of rest after your procedure will make recovery go as smoothly as possible. 

Here’s what to expect after cataract surgery and how you can set yourself up for success during your recovery.

Tips for Your Best Cataract Surgery Recovery

    1. Stay hydrated before and after the procedure: Water is very important for your body when it’s healing, and you should make sure to stay hydrated before and after any surgical procedure. Additionally, after cataract surgery, your eyes may feel drier than normal, and drinking water can help keep your eyes moist.
    2. Prepare meals before surgery: Preparing meals ahead of time is a great way to make sure you can rest properly after surgery. Since you should be avoiding strenuous activity and protecting your eyes, cooking right after cataract surgery is not ideal.
    3. Take a few days off of work: Most people can return to work a few days after surgery, but it’s best to give yourself at least a few days to focus on your recovery. At the very least, don’t plan to return to work the same day as your procedure. Your eyes will be sensitive and may feel irritated or uncomfortable. You won’t be able to drive right away, so make sure you have someone available to drive you home after the procedure.
    4. Take eye drops as prescribed: Taking eye drops as directed is essential to your recovery after cataract surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe two types of eye drops: antibiotic eye drops to help prevent any infections, and anti-inflammatory eye drops to help reduce inflammation after your procedure. 
    5. Avoid strenuous activities: Don’t exercise or do any strenuous activities for a few weeks after your procedure. Avoid bending over right after surgery. Strenuous activity, like heavy lifting, can raise your intraocular pressure (IOP) or eye pressure. This can lead to complications like retinal detachment, dislocation of the new lens that was implanted, corneal swelling, and fluid buildup in the eye. Ask your surgeon for a specific timeline on when you can return to your normal activities, including intense exercise.
    6. Avoid swimming: Don’t swim in pools, oceans, lakes, hot tubs, or any other body of water for at least a month after your surgery. Your eyes will be more vulnerable to infections after your procedure, and all bodies of water are filled with various types of bacteria.
    7. Don’t rub your eyes: You should never rub your eyes because your hands can introduce bacteria to your eyes and lead to infection. Chronic eye rubbing can also lead to corneal issues. It’s even more important to avoid rubbing your eyes after cataract surgery because doing so could damage the fragile flap that is created during the procedure. Damaging this flap can lead to complications. If your eyes feel irritated after your procedure, using artificial tears can help.
    8. Wear a protective eye shield: After surgery, your surgeon will place a protective shield over your eye. Ask them when you are able to remove this shield. You should still wear it at night while sleeping or during naps for several days after your procedure.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Problems after cataract surgery are rare, but as with any surgery, there can be complications. 

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact your surgeon right away:

  • Severe or worsening eye pain, redness, or swelling
  • Crusting or mucous discharge around your eye
  • Worsening vision or vision loss
  • Flashes or a sudden increase in floaters
  • Sudden increased light sensitivity

how long is the recovery after cataract surgery?

How Long Is the Recovery for Cataract Surgery?

In most cases, full recovery from cataract surgery takes four weeks. However, most people notice improvement in their vision within a few days. Remember that everyone is different, and don’t worry if you don’t notice drastic improvements right away.

Different factors can influence your healing process, including:

  • Age
  • Overall health
  • The severity of the cataract
  • Pre-existing conditions
  • The type of cataract surgery performed

There should be little to no pain or discomfort during your recovery. Make sure to attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and check that your eyes are healing properly.

Cataract Surgery Options

During cataract surgery, also called intraocular lens implant surgery, your surgeon removes the diseased, cloudy lens and replaces it with an artificial, intraocular lens (IOL) to improve your vision. 

Leading-edge laser cataract surgery options allow you to choose a customized IOL to address astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness.

Traditional cataract surgery uses monofocal lenses, which provide clear distance vision.

eye doctor performing laser cataract surgery

Laser Cataract Surgery

During laser cataract surgery procedures, surgeons use FDA-approved custom lasers to create precise incisions instead of creating them by hand.

Bladeless Laser Refractive Cataract Surgery

Bladeless laser cataract surgery is performed using a LenSx® femtosecond laser, which significantly improves the precision of the procedure and allows your surgeon to customize it to your vision needs.

The femtosecond laser performs many of the steps that surgeons traditionally performed by hand. This translates to better lens positioning, less trauma to the eye, and better, more personalized results.

ORA Cataract Surgery

ORA cataract surgery is another precise, customizable option that is especially useful for patients who have difficult lens calculations, such as patients who had LASIK and now require cataract surgery.

The procedure uses an intraoperative wavefront technology that allows your surgeon to take nearly 40 measurements in seconds. These measurements are used to customize the lens power and can provide better outcomes for many patients.

Traditional Cataract Surgery

Traditional cataract surgery uses a no-stitch incision. This procedure cannot be customized in the same way as laser cataract surgery options, but it is a safe and effective procedure.

Get a Cataract Surgery Consultation at Specialty Eye Institute

If you’re dealing with vision challenges because of cataracts, cataract surgery might be right for you. In addition to clearing your vision, custom cataract surgery can reduce your reliance on glasses and contacts by addressing astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness.

The expert eye surgeons at Specialty Eye Institute can examine your eyes and recommend the best procedure for your needs. We also treat glaucoma and other eye conditions using the latest technology, including laser surgery.

Schedule your appointment today.

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