Flickering Vision After Cataract Surgery

 It is, understandably, worrying to experience any eyesight problems. But to have them after a surgical procedure can be even more frightening. But rest assured that flickering vision after cataract surgery is common—and it usually resolves itself within a few weeks.

But why does it happen? And what do we actually mean by “flickering”?

Flickering Vision After Cataract Surgery? All Your FAQs Answered

• What is flickering vision after cataract surgery?
• Why does it happen?
• When will it go away, and do I need to do anything?

What is flickering vision after cataract surgery?

There are a variety of very normal after-effects from cataract surgery. Flickering—also described as shimmering or fluttering—is something that most people experience, at least for a few days. Patients often say it’s like a light is flickering just out of their line of vision.

Other common, post-cataract surgery visual anomalies that, again, are very normal, include:

• Blurred vision.
• Foggy vision.
• Seeing a half-moon shape.

Why does it happen?

Flickering vision after cataract surgery occurs because of the healing process. The lens capsule is opened during surgery, the old lens removed, and the new one sited. This tissue trauma then goes through the natural healing process that usually takes around 6-8 weeks.

Seeing flickering or shimmering lights in your vision is due to the lens capsule healing and gradually shrinking and bonding with the new lens. Once this process is complete, the visual disturbances usually disappear. 

Other issues might also be experienced after a cataract operation, such as:

• Seeing halos around a light source.
• Seeing light streaks.
• Seeing starbursts.
• Seeing shadows or lines.
• Seeing floaters.

Again, such issues tend to reduce in the weeks and months after surgery. They are a by-product of healing or the brain’s learning process as it re-adjusts to an unimpeded neural connection. This is necessary because the cataract has taken many years—often decades—to form. As it gets worse, the cataract gradually blocks the flow of light through the eye and distorts the signals that the brain receives.

Because this happens so slowly, the brain gradually adapts. When the diseased lens is removed and a new, clear one inserted, the passage of light can flow freely again. The brain takes a few weeks to get used to this and, once again, return clear visual images.

When will it go away, and do I need to do anything?

Most people experience a gradual improvement as the body’s cells naturally knit together, with the flickering disappearing completely by around the 6-8 weeks mark. The best thing to do to promote the fastest healing is:

• To practise excellent hygiene when cleaning the eye.
• Use the post-operative eye drops as instructed.
• Don’t touch the eye or eye area unnecessarily.
• Don’t rush getting back to activities that put the eye under undue stress.
• Use your eyes as normal: read, watch TV, use a computer, etc.
• Attend your follow-up appointments

In other words, the best thing you can do to promote the most efficient eye healing is to follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions to the letter.

Got Questions About Flickering Vision After Cataract Surgery? Contact the WBEC Today

The West Boca Eye Center is a leading academic-grade clinic that offers the latest cutting-edge treatment. Rest assured that when you entrust us with your precious vision, we’ll explain everything in minute detail. Plus, our second-to-none post-operative care ensures all eventualities are considered, monitored, and—if necessary—dealt with.

If you’re looking for a cataract surgeon for pre-, post, or the operation itself, call our friendly team today or check out local options at https://www.moderncataractsurgery.com/best-cataract-surgeons

 It is, understandably, worrying to experience any eyesight problems. But to have them after a surgical procedure can be even more frightening.

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