Early post-operative blur is commonly caused by corneal oedema and inflammation, which are influenced by energy delivery, fluid exposure, and intraocular duration.
Short, efficient surgery minimises endothelial stress and turbulence, often resulting in clearer vision the next day and a more comfortable early recovery. This is particularly noticeable in outpatient surgery.
Individual recovery varies with cataract density and endothelial reserve, but reduced intraocular stress lowers the risk of early corneal swelling.
What this means for you
- Faster intraocular time may mean quicker functional recovery
- Understand when to seek review if recovery is delayed
Question to ask
- “What should I expect for vision in the first 24–48 hours?”
References
- Hayashi K, Hayashi H, Nakao F, Hayashi F. Corneal oedema after phacoemulsification surgery in eyes with normal endothelium. Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery. 1998;24(3):418–424.
- Walkow T, Anders N, Klebe S. Endothelial cell loss after phacoemulsification. Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery. 2000;26(7):1070–1077.
