Yes — almost always, cataract surgery will improve your night vision for driving, walking and any other activities in low light. Show
One of the first symptoms of cataracts is a loss of contrast sensitivity, which is most apparent in dim lighting. As the cataract worsens, additional visual symptoms that affect night vision — most notably, glare, starbursts and halos around lights — become more problematic. Removing your cataract and replacing it with a crystal-clear intraocular lens (IOL) typically will result in a dramatic improvement in the clarity and quality of your vision. Many people find this is especially true for activities like driving at night. If minor refractive errors remain after cataract surgery, you may be able to sharpen your night vision even further by wearing prescription eyeglasses. If your wear eyeglasses for driving at night, be sure to have anti-reflective coating applied to the lenses for the clearest, most comfortable vision possible. Page published on Monday, January 14, 2019 Page updated on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 Cataracts cause clouded, blurry vision that interferes with day-to-day living. Fortunately, cataract surgery can improve your eyesight and eliminate these frustrating symptoms. Our doctors offer this popular procedure at Deen Gross Eye Centers in Merrillville, IN, and Hobart, IN. Here, we discuss driving before and after cataract surgery and offer some recommendations for a speedy and successful recovery.How Cataracts Affect DrivingIn the early stages, cataracts may not significantly affect your vision. But over time, vision becomes clouded and objects can appear blurry. Driving with cataracts can pose unique challenges. You may notice that:
If you notice any of these warning signs, it is time to schedule a consultation with your ophthalmologist. Our experienced doctors can help determine if cataract surgery is right for you. About Cataract Surgery and RecoveryIf you are a candidate for cataract surgery, we will schedule you for an in-office procedure. The natural clouded lens of the eye is removed and a new artificial one is placed. The entire procedure can typically be completed in about one hour. Recovery after cataract surgery is usually short. Any tenderness should diminish in about two to three days. However, other side effects, such as blurriness and sensitivity, could continue for several more days. For this reason, it is important to weigh the risks before you start driving again. The Day of SurgeryPatients who undergo cataract surgery should not, under any circumstances, drive the same day. Be sure to arrange for a friend or family member to accompany you to your appointment. Avoid rideshares or taxis, as you will need someone to stay with you for a few hours after your procedure. The Next Few DaysOver the next 24 to 48 hours, your vision will slowly start to improve. As your eyes heal and adjust, your eyesight will become clearer and colors will appear brighter. Generally, your ophthalmologist will see you for a follow-up visit a day or two after your cataract surgery to ensure your eyes are healing as expected. This is a good time to discuss driving. Your doctor can help you determine if you are ready. In most cases, patients can comfortably drive again in just two to three days after cataract surgery. If your vision is clear and post-op sensitivity has diminished, you should be able to get behind the wheel again. Assess Your Vision PrescriptionBefore driving, check your current glasses to see if they still provide you with optimal vision. Oftentimes, your vision will be restored to such a degree that you do not need a prescription as strong as your old one. Contact Us to Learn MoreCataracts can have a significant negative impact on your quality of life. Cataract surgery can restore your vision and your freedom to do the things you love. To schedule a cataract surgery consultation at our Merrillville or Hobart locations, call us at (219) 769-8989 or contact us online. Related to This
ATTENTION: The products discussed on this website are intended for adult patients and may not be right for you. Patients should discuss all risks and benefits with their eye doctor before surgery. Not actual patients or healthcare professionals. For illustrative purposes only. Unless otherwise specified, all product names appearing in this Internet site are trademarks owned by or licensed to Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision, Inc., its subsidiaries or affiliates. No use of any Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision, Inc. trademark, trade name, or trade dress in this site may be made without the prior written authorization of Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision, Inc., except to identify the product or services of the company. PP2022CT4689 This website and the information contained herein is intended for use only by residents of Canada. © Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision, Inc. 2019 Does cataract surgery affect night driving?Be Careful Driving at Night During Surgical Recovery
Glare, halos, and issues with light sensitivity are not uncommon. Be sure to take things slow when it comes to driving at night. If you notice glare and halos, try to avoid driving yourself at night until these issues have resolved.
How many days rest is needed after cataract surgery?take it easy for the first 2 to 3 days. use your eye shield at night for at least a week. take painkillers if you need to. bathe or shower yourself as usual.
How long do you wear the eyepatch at night after cataract surgery?Wear your eye shield at night or while napping so you don't rub your eye while sleeping. Your doctor will tell you how many nights to do this. For most people it's from 1 to 7 nights. Use the eye drops your doctor prescribes, just as your doctor advises.
Can you see in the dark after cataract surgery?Since cataract surgery improves vision quality and clarity, it can help you to see better in all light conditions, including at night.
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