How Soon After Cataract Surgery Can I Exercise?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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We recommend that you avoid any exercise for

at least one week after

cataract surgery. Any discomfort and tenderness from the surgery will settle within a few days and you can begin with some light to moderate exercise such as walking or stretching.

What activities should be avoided after cataract surgery?

  • Drive. You shouldn’t drive at least 24 hours after cataract surgery. …
  • Wear Makeup. Makeup is full of bacteria! …
  • Perform Any Strenuous Activity. Until your surgeon says you can stick to light activity only. …
  • Go Near Dusty Areas. …
  • Swim. …
  • Forget To Wear Sunglasses Outside. …
  • Rub Your Eye.

How long after cataract surgery can you exercise?

We recommend that you avoid any exercise for

at least one week

after cataract surgery. Any discomfort and tenderness from the surgery will settle within a few days and you can begin with some light to moderate exercise such as walking or stretching.

How long after cataract surgery can you bend and lift?

Do not bend over or do any strenuous activities, such as biking, jogging, weight lifting, or aerobic exercise, for

2 weeks

or until your doctor says it is okay. Avoid swimming, hot tubs, gardening, and dusting for 1 to 2 weeks. Wear sunglasses on bright days for at least 1 year after surgery.

Can you squat after cataract surgery?

Just like with strenuous activity, bending over can cause a rush of blood to your head that interferes with your recovering eyes. If you need to pick something up, ask a friend or

keep your head upright squat down without lowering your

head.

How long do you need to rest after cataract surgery?

The recovery time for cataract surgery is short. Any soreness and discomfort should disappear within a couple of days. However, depending on the nature and size of your cataracts, and your physiology and ability and heal, full recovery could take anything from

four weeks to six weeks

.

What are the do’s and don’t after cataract surgery?

Immediately after the surgery,

avoid bending over as it

puts added pressure on your eye. Try not to sneeze for the same reasons. Do not drive the day after your surgery. We don’t want you to do any strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for the first few weeks after your surgery.

How long after cataract surgery can I sleep on my side?

Rubbing your eye or even water splashing in your eye can aggravate the chances of infection. You may also want to avoid sleeping on the side of the operated eye

for the first 24 hours

.

What is the fastest way to recover from cataract surgery?

  1. use your eye drops as instructed.
  2. take it easy for the first 2 to 3 days.
  3. use your eye shield at night for at least a week.
  4. take painkillers if you need to.
  5. bathe or shower yourself as usual.
  6. wear your eye shield when washing your hair.
  7. read, watch TV and use a computer.
  8. use your shield, old glasses or sunglasses outdoors.

Why are my eyes still blurry and sun sensitive after 2 months of cataract surgery?

Sometimes after surgery,

blood vessels in the retina leak

. As fluid collects in your eye, it blurs your vision. Your doctor will treat it with eye drops, and it could take weeks or months to heal. It usually gets completely better.

What is ghosting after cataract surgery?

Ghosting vision or double vision, also more properly known as diplopia, is a condition that occurs

when your eyes that normally work together start to see two slightly different images

. Double vision occurs when these two different images cause you to see them transposed next to each other.

How long after cataract surgery can I resume normal activities?

We recommend that you avoid any exercise for

at least one week

after cataract surgery. Any discomfort and tenderness from the surgery will settle within a few days and you can begin with some light to moderate exercise such as walking or stretching.

What happens if you accidentally rub your eye after cataract surgery?

Rubbing your eye

can lead to bacteria or an infection

, and the pressure is also bad for the healing incision. Your eye may itch sometimes, but rubbing it will only make things worse— you must resist the urge! Keeping your eye as clean and clear of contact as possible will lead to faster healing.

Does cataract surgery give you 20 20 vision?

Some patients ask if they will have 20/20 vision after the procedure. Most patients can achieve 20/20 vision

as long as they have no other conditions

. Conditions that can affect the quality of vision after cataract surgery include: Glaucoma.

Can we watch TV after cataract surgery?


You can read or watch TV right away

, but things may look blurry. Most people are able to return to work or their normal routine in 1 to 3 days. After your eye heals, you may still need to wear glasses, especially for reading.

Are you sitting or lying down during cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is usually done in the day care unit at the London Clinic, opposite Clinica London. It is an outpatient procedure, meaning that you go into the hospital for only an hour or so and are

sitting in a comfortable reclining chair

while you wait to go into the operating theatre.

Kim Nguyen
Author
Kim Nguyen
Kim Nguyen is a fitness expert and personal trainer with over 15 years of experience in the industry. She is a certified strength and conditioning specialist and has trained a variety of clients, from professional athletes to everyday fitness enthusiasts. Kim is passionate about helping people achieve their fitness goals and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.