Safe Activity After Cataract Surgery

How can you have a smooth recovery from cataract surgery? Ask your doctor before surgery when you can safely go back to your daily activities, then follow their directions.

Within a few hours after cataract surgery, you can read, watch TV or use your computer, but expect it may be blurry while your eyes adjust. The next day, you can shower, but don’t get water or soap in your eye.

The next day, you can also do light exercise (like walking), but wait 1 to 2 weeks for more active movement that raises your heart rate (like biking or running). For 2 days, avoid bending over, which can increase your eye pressure and prevent healing. For 1 week, don’t use eye makeup, since it puts your eye at risk for scratches or bacteria coming in.

And avoid driving until your doctor says it’s okay. Remember, everyone’s recovery from cataract surgery is different— keep your follow-up appointments so your doctor can check how you’re healing.