If you’re preparing for cataract surgery, one of the first things on your mind is probably recovery. You might be wondering how soon your vision will clear, when you can get back to driving, or how long it will take before you feel completely back to normal. These are all valid questions because, while cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful operations performed worldwide, every patient’s recovery timeline can vary slightly.
The good news is that recovery is usually straightforward, with most people noticing improvements in their sight within just a few days. But recovery is not just about seeing more clearly—it’s also about letting your eye heal properly, protecting it from infection, and knowing what activities you should and shouldn’t do during the healing process.
So, how long does cataract surgery recovery really take? In this guide, we’ll break it down for you step by step. We’ll cover what happens in the first 24 hours, the first week, and the weeks that follow. You’ll also find clear answers on when it’s safe to return to driving, exercising, working, and more.
The First 24 Hours After Cataract Surgery
The first day after surgery is a crucial period. Immediately after the procedure, your eye may feel gritty, watery, or mildly uncomfortable, but serious pain is very unusual. Your surgeon will usually give you a protective shield or glasses to wear, especially at night, to prevent you from accidentally rubbing your eye while it heals.
Vision often improves within hours, but don’t be surprised if things appear blurry or cloudy at first. This is partly due to natural swelling in the eye, and partly because your brain is adjusting to the new intraocular lens (IOL). Some patients notice glare or halos around lights during this early stage, but these usually fade as healing progresses.
During the first 24 hours, you’ll need to rest and avoid any strenuous activity. Your surgeon will have prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to reduce the risk of infection and inflammation, and it’s important to use these exactly as directed. You may also be asked to return for a quick follow-up appointment within this timeframe so your surgeon can check that everything is healing properly.
The First Week of Recovery
By the end of the first week, most patients find their vision is significantly clearer, colours appear brighter, and day-to-day activities like reading or watching television are much easier. However, the eye is still delicate, so you’ll need to follow some important precautions.
You’ll likely be told to avoid heavy lifting, bending over for long periods, or doing any activity that might put pressure on the eye. Swimming and using hot tubs are usually off-limits for at least a couple of weeks because of the risk of infection. Washing your face and hair should be done carefully so that water or shampoo doesn’t get into the operated eye.
It’s also important to continue with your prescribed eye drops. These not only protect against infection but also help to control inflammation, which can affect both comfort and visual recovery. Most people are comfortable enough to resume light activities within the week, but everyone heals differently, so it’s best to follow the personalised advice given by your surgeon.
Weeks Two to Four: Steady Improvements
After the first week, your eye will continue to heal and settle. Between two to four weeks post-surgery, many patients notice that their vision stabilises further, with sharper clarity and reduced sensitivity to light. If you had cataracts in both eyes, your surgeon may schedule the second surgery during this time so that you can achieve balanced vision sooner.
Most people are able to return to work within this window, provided their job doesn’t involve heavy physical labour or environments with a high risk of dust, dirt, or infection. If you work in an office, you might even be back at your desk in just a few days, though your surgeon will guide you based on your specific situation.
Driving is another milestone that many patients look forward to. In the UK, you can usually drive once you meet the DVLA vision requirements again, and your surgeon confirms it’s safe to do so. This often happens within one to two weeks, though it varies from person to person.
Long-Term Healing: Six Weeks and Beyond
By the six-week mark, the majority of patients feel that their eyes have fully recovered. Your vision should be stable, with little to no discomfort, and you can generally return to all your usual activities without restrictions.
At this stage, your surgeon may assess whether you need new glasses for certain tasks. While many people achieve excellent vision without glasses after cataract surgery, especially if advanced intraocular lenses were used, some may still need glasses for reading or fine detail work.
It’s worth noting that long-term healing is not just about comfort and clarity. Your eye will continue to adjust over time, and some patients experience gradual improvements in contrast sensitivity and night vision months after surgery. Regular check-ups with your optometrist or surgeon will ensure that your vision is on track and that your eyes remain healthy.
Factors That Can Influence Recovery Time
Not everyone heals at the same pace. Several factors can influence how quickly and smoothly you recover from cataract surgery:
- Age and general health: Older patients or those with medical conditions like diabetes may take slightly longer to heal.
- Eye conditions: Pre-existing issues such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or corneal disease can slow recovery or affect the final visual outcome.
- Type of surgery and lens used: Advanced techniques and premium IOLs may influence the speed of visual adjustment.
- How well you follow instructions: Using your eye drops correctly and avoiding activities your surgeon has restricted are crucial for a smooth recovery.
Knowing these factors helps set realistic expectations and reminds you that recovery is highly individual.
Returning to Everyday Activities
One of the most common concerns after cataract surgery is when you can get back to normal life. Here’s a breakdown:
- Driving: Often within 1–2 weeks, once vision meets DVLA standards and your surgeon gives the all-clear.
- Work: Desk jobs may be resumed within a few days to a week; more physical roles may require 2–4 weeks.
- Exercise: Gentle walking is fine straight away, but strenuous exercise, weightlifting, or high-impact sports should be avoided for at least a few weeks.
- Swimming: Usually delayed for 4 weeks due to infection risk.
- Reading and screens: These can be used almost immediately, though your eyes may feel tired at first.
- Make-up: Avoid eye make-up for at least 2 weeks to prevent irritation or infection.
By gradually resuming your routine and taking care to protect your eye, you’ll give yourself the best chance of a smooth, comfortable recovery.
FAQs About Cataract Surgery Recovery
1. How soon will I be able to see after cataract surgery?
Most people notice an improvement in their vision within the first 24 hours, though it is completely normal if your sight seems cloudy or hazy to begin with. This early blurriness happens because the eye needs time to adjust to the new intraocular lens and for any swelling to settle down. As the healing process continues, colours will often appear brighter, details sharper, and glare less bothersome. For some, these changes can happen very quickly, while for others, it may take a week or two before vision stabilises.
2. Will I need someone to stay with me after surgery?
Yes, you should plan for someone to take you home after the procedure and ideally stay with you for at least the first night. Immediately following surgery, your vision may be blurry, and the effects of sedation or anaesthetic drops can make you feel disoriented. Having a companion helps ensure your safety and gives peace of mind in case you need help with medication or moving around. Even if you feel fine, it’s best not to be on your own in the first 24 hours.
3. Can cataract surgery recovery be painful?
Cataract surgery itself is not painful because of the local anaesthetic, and severe pain afterwards is very rare. What you might experience is mild discomfort such as a gritty sensation, itching, or light sensitivity during the first few days. These are usually managed easily with prescribed eye drops and over-the-counter pain relief if necessary. If you ever experience sharp or worsening pain, you should contact your surgeon promptly as this may signal a complication that needs attention.
4. When can I go back to work?
This depends largely on the type of work you do and how your eye responds to surgery. Many people with office-based jobs return within a few days, especially if their vision clears quickly and they feel comfortable using a computer. However, those whose jobs involve heavy lifting, dusty environments, or physical activity may need to wait two to four weeks. It’s always wise to follow the tailored advice of your surgeon, as recovery can vary from person to person.
5. How long before I can exercise again?
You can usually resume gentle activities such as walking almost immediately, which is actually good for circulation and general wellbeing. More strenuous exercise, including weightlifting, running, or high-intensity workouts, should be avoided for at least two weeks, sometimes longer. This is because increased pressure or sudden movements can interfere with healing. Swimming and contact sports are usually restricted for a minimum of four weeks due to the risks of infection or eye injury.
6. Can I read or use a computer after surgery?
Yes, reading, watching television, and using digital devices are generally safe right after surgery. However, your eyes may tire more quickly than usual, and you may notice sensitivity to light or slight blurriness at first. Taking regular breaks, adjusting screen brightness, and using good lighting can make these activities more comfortable. As healing progresses, most patients find they can use screens and read for extended periods without discomfort.
7. Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?
Whether or not you need glasses depends on the type of intraocular lens (IOL) you receive. Monofocal lenses usually provide excellent distance vision, but you may still need glasses for reading or close work. Premium lenses, such as multifocal or toric IOLs, can reduce the need for glasses at different distances or correct astigmatism. Even with advanced lenses, some patients prefer using glasses for specific tasks, so it’s a good idea to keep realistic expectations.
8. When is it safe to drive again?
You can usually drive once your vision meets the DVLA’s legal requirements and your surgeon confirms it is safe to do so. For many people, this point is reached within one to two weeks after surgery, though it can vary depending on how quickly your vision stabilises. It’s important not to rush back into driving—give yourself time to feel confident, especially at night or in bright sunlight when glare may still be noticeable.
9. What are the signs that something is wrong during recovery?
While most recoveries are smooth, it’s important to watch out for warning signs. Severe pain, a sudden drop in vision, intense redness, flashing lights, or a curtain-like shadow over your vision should all be taken seriously and reported immediately to your surgeon. These symptoms are uncommon but could indicate issues such as infection or retinal problems. Prompt treatment usually resolves complications successfully, so don’t delay in seeking help if you notice anything unusual.
10. How long until I’m fully recovered?
Most people feel they are “back to normal” within four to six weeks, though some subtle improvements in contrast sensitivity and clarity can continue for months. Full recovery means the eye has healed, vision has stabilised, and there are no restrictions on your daily activities. It’s worth remembering that healing is gradual, and patience is part of the process. By following your surgeon’s instructions carefully and attending follow-up appointments, you’ll give your eyes the best chance for a smooth and complete recovery.
Final Thoughts
Cataract surgery recovery is usually quicker than most people expect, but it’s still a process that takes a few weeks. You’ll often notice improvements within days, though your eyes need time to fully heal and settle. By following the guidance we give you and giving yourself a little space to rest, you’ll help ensure the best possible outcome.
Every patient’s recovery is different, depending on factors such as overall health, the condition of the eyes before surgery, and the type of lens used. It’s important to be patient—enjoy the small milestones like brighter colours or easier reading, while knowing that most people feel fully recovered within about six weeks.
At London Cataract Centre, our team is here to support you through every stage of your journey. From your first consultation to the final check-up, we’ll make sure you feel informed, reassured, and confident as you return to clearer vision.
References
- Porela-Tiihonen, S. et al. (2016) ‘Recovery after cataract surgery’, PubMed, Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27111408/ (Accessed: 25 September 2025).
- Westborg, I. et al. (2020) ‘Follow-up after cataract surgery’, Clinical Ophthalmology, Available at: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2147/OPTH.S246195 (Accessed: 25 September 2025).
- Syed, Z. A. et al. (2015) ‘Cataract surgery outcomes at a UK independent sector’, PubMed, Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25926519/ (Accessed: 25 September 2025).
- Tsegaw, G. W. et al. (2025) ‘Predictors of time to recovery from cataract surgery among …’, PMC, Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12023361/ (Accessed: 25 September 2025).
- Sarmiso, S. et al. (2024) ‘Time to recovery following cataract surgery and its predictors’, PLOS ONE, Available at: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0313118 (Accessed: 25 September 2025).