15 Apr Lenses or glasses after cataract surgery: what to choose?
Article summary
You’ve just had cataract surgery and your vision is finally getting clearer. But one question remains: should you choose glasses or contact lenses to fine-tune your visual correction? Each option has its pros and cons, and the decision depends on your comfort, lifestyle, and specific needs.
Visual changes after cataract surgery
Cataract surgery replaces the clouded natural lens with an intraocular lens, thus improving vision. After the procedure, color perception, sharpness, and brightness change, which requires an adaptation period.
Clearer and brighter vision
After surgery, patients often notice an immediate improvement. Colors appear more vivid and light feels more intense. This is due to the removal of the cloudy lens that was blocking some of the light.
Possible change in visual correction
Your glasses or contact lens prescription may change after surgery. If a monofocal lens is implanted, additional correction for near or distance vision may be needed. With a multifocal lens, reliance on glasses is reduced. Finally, a toric lens can correct astigmatism in addition to cataracts.
An essential adaptation period
Visual recovery takes a few days to a few weeks. During this time, it’s normal to experience temporary blurriness, increased light sensitivity, and halos around light sources, especially at night. These effects gradually subside as your brain adjusts to the new vision.
Glasses after cataract surgery: pros and cons
Benefits of glasses
After cataract surgery, glasses remain a simple and effective option. They don’t require direct contact with the eye, reducing the risk of infection. They also offer protection against dust, wind, and other external irritants. Once the prescription is adjusted, they provide immediate correction without a complicated adaptation period.
Easy to maintain, glasses come in various models: blue light blocking, progressive lenses, or tinted for sun protection. They also allow adjustments if your vision changes after the operation.
Contact lenses after cataract surgery: pros and cons
Benefits of contact lenses
Contact lenses offer more precise correction, especially in cases of astigmatism or differing vision between both eyes. They provide a wider field of view without lateral distortion and offer an aesthetic advantage. They’re also practical for sports activities, as they don’t slip or fog up.
However, they require strict maintenance and an adaptation period. You can also read my article on which lenses to choose after cataract surgery.
Can you wear contact lenses after cataract surgery?
Benefits of contact lenses
Although some patients no longer need correction after surgery, others may still require glasses or contact lenses.
When can you wear contact lenses after surgery?
It’s best to wait until recovery is complete before considering contact lenses—around 4 to 6 weeks, depending on healing and vision stability.
Why choose contact lenses?
They can correct residual astigmatism, enhance sharpness for specific activities, or be preferred for aesthetic reasons.
Precautions to take
A consultation with an ophthalmologist in Geneva such as Dr. Bela is essential before choosing contact lenses. It’s important to select a model suitable for the operated eye and to avoid rigid lenses at first. Good hygiene is crucial to prevent infections.
How to choose between contact lenses and glasses after cataract surgery
After cataract surgery, the choice between contact lenses and glasses depends on comfort, safety, and cost.
The decision comes down to comfort, safety, and cost.
| Criteria | Glasses | Contact lenses |
|---|---|---|
|
Comfort |
Easy to wear |
May be uncomfortable at first |
|
Maintenance |
Simple cleaning |
Must be cleaned and replaced regularly |
|
Cost |
Less expensive in the long run |
Higher long-term cost |
|
Vision |
Effective correction |
Better peripheral vision |
|
Safety |
Lower risk of infection |
Higher risk if not properly maintained |
It is recommended to consult a specialist to make the best choice based on your needs and lifestyle.
Tips to optimize your post-surgery vision
After cataract surgery, adopting good habits allows for optimal recovery and better visual comfort.
Follow medical recommendations
Follow the prescribed eye drops routine to prevent infections and inflammation. Protect your eyes by wearing protective glasses outdoors and allow your eyes to rest, especially during the first few days after surgery.
Adapt your environment
Good lighting helps reduce eye strain. Avoid overly bright screens and take regular breaks to rest your eyes.
Monitor your adjustment
Your vision may fluctuate after the operation. If discomfort persists, consult your ophthalmologist to adjust the correction if needed.
Aesthetic approaches for the eye contour
Aesthetic methods complement medical treatments, offering both preventive and corrective benefits.
Dietary supplements
Supplements rich in antioxidants and vitamins strengthen collagen and improve hydration, helping reduce signs of aging.
Cosmetic surgery
Eye lifting provides long-lasting results by tightening the skin and removing excess, for a more youthful look.
Importance of hydration
Drinking enough water and using daily moisturizing products helps maintain skin elasticity and slows the appearance of wrinkles.