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How long between cataract surgery on each eye?

Are you wondering to yourself, “How long between cataract surgery on each eye?”. If you have cataracts in both eyes and are thinking about when to have surgery, you might wonder about the best timing for it. Many people have this question, so let’s explore the important things to consider and the time needed to recover after the surgery. It’s perfectly fine to have both eyes operated on at the same time, and you should always ask your surgeon if this is a possibility for you.

Starting with the correct eye

First, it’s crucial to figure out which eye needs attention first when both eyes have cataracts. Instead of having surgery on both eyes at the same time, it’s better to focus on the eye with more severe cataracts and a cloudier lens.

Anticipating the timeline

So, how long should you wait between cataract surgeries? After the first surgery on one eye, it’s recommended to wait about one month before addressing the second eye. This advice, supported by the National Eye Institute,1https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts/cataract-surgery helps maintain a certain level of vision and allows your eye specialist to closely monitor your recovery.

It’s important to know that the waiting period can vary. Some people may choose to delay the second surgery for several years, considering the impact of cataracts on their vision.

Understanding the recovery process

Now, let’s talk about the healing process. After cataract surgery, you can expect a typical recovery period of up to eight weeks.2https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cataract-surgery/about/pac-20384765#:~:text=You%20may%20be%20prescribed%20eye,healing%20happens%20within%20eight%20weeks However, this doesn’t mean your vision will be impaired during the entire time.

On the day of the surgery, you’ll go home with a protective pad or bandage over your eye. It’s a good idea to have someone you trust, like a partner, friend, or family member, with you. Any initial discomfort should go away within a day or two. In the following days, you may need to use a protective eye shield, and it’s recommended to avoid strenuous activities for at least a week.

Remember, refrain from driving, using contact lenses, and applying eye makeup until your doctor gives you the green light. Specialised eye drops in the first weeks after surgery are essential to prevent infections.

Assessing your visual outcomes

After the surgery, a thorough eye exam will evaluate how well the procedure has improved your vision. You might be prescribed a new pair of glasses depending on the results.

Now that you better understand the cataract surgery process, it’s time to take charge of your vision.

If you’re thinking about cataract surgery, we invite you to book a free video appointment with us.

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A portrait representing Mr. P.L., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent glaucoma treatmentMr PL

“To Mr Nguyen, Thank you so very much, the berries are very red, as are the traffic lights…and I can see my cat’s whiskers!”

A portrait representing Mrs. G.E., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent cataract eye surgeryMrs GE

“I never thought I would describe eye surgery as a pleasant experience, but it was; you are a gifted person. I am sure you have heard this many times before, but the contrast before and after such a short surgery is truly remarkable.”

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A portrait representing Mrs. L.B., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent cataract eye surgeryMrs LB

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A portrait representing Mrs. M.F., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent cataract eye surgeryMrs MF

“It is now just over a year since you carried out the procedure on my second eye. I still awake in wonder each morning when I wake and can see clearly.”

A portrait representing Mr. B.C., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent cataract eye surgeryMr BC

“Thank you for the new lens you fitted to my right eye. I cannot believe how much better my vision is – massive improvement for driving.”

A portrait representing Mr. B.F., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent lens replacementMr BF

“I was facing the possibility of being unable to drive because of poor vision, but now, after 70 plus years of wearing spectacles, I no longer need them! Amazing! Added to that, my snooker has improved enormously!”

A portrait representing Mr. D.V., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent lens replacementMr DV

“The miraculous improvement from my extreme short-sightedness coupled with cataracts in both eyes is a massive life change, and I am enormously grateful to you all. I wish to thank you most sincerely for all the expertise, care and kindness shown to me.”

A portrait representing Mrs. C.J., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent glaucoma treatmentMrs CJ

“From my initial consultation through to walking out the door following surgery, I found the whole process to be fantastic and could not have wished for a nicer experience.”

A portrait representing Mr. S.C., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent glaucoma treatmentMr SC

“I am very pleased to say my eyesight is so much better. I am so delighted that I can see very clearly again, no blurred vision at all. It’s brilliant.”

A portrait representing Mrs. M.L., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent cataract eye surgeryMrs ML

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Mr Dan Nguyen

MBChB MBA FRCOphth FRANZCO
Consultant Eye Surgeon

Hello, I’m Dan Nguyen!

I‘m your guide to better vision. In times when long waiting lists and unclear options are the norm, it’s easy to feel stuck and worried about your eye health. Don’t let that hold you back. I’m here to show you that you can skip the endless queues and make real progress. Remember, you’re unique, not just another name on a list. Every patient I see receives top-notch care, tailored to their specific needs and lifestyle. Once you’ve had your treatment, you’ll be able to embrace a life that’s vivid, colourful, and just the way you like it. So what are you waiting for? Stop waiting and start living!

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