Getting back to your routine after cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is a quick, day-case procedure, but most patients want to know exactly when they can get back to normal life. The good news is that recovery is usually fast. Most people feel comfortable within a day or two, and the vast majority are back to their usual routines within a week. Here is a practical guide to returning to work, driving, exercise and everyday activities after surgery.

The first 24 hours

The first day after surgery is usually the most important for rest. Your eye may feel gritty, watery or slightly sore, but significant pain is uncommon. You should avoid rubbing the eye, keep the protective shield on overnight if instructed, and use your eye drops exactly as prescribed. It is fine to read, watch television or use a phone gently, but avoid dusty environments and heavy lifting.

Most patients are comfortable enough to potter around the house and make light meals. If you have surgery on one eye only, your other eye will usually keep you functional during this early period.

Returning to work

If your job is office-based and you can control your environment, you can often return to work within two or three days. If your work involves physical labour, dust, chemicals, or risk of eye injury, you may need one to two weeks off. Jobs with high visual demands, such as prolonged screen work, can be tiring at first, so plan short breaks and use lubricating drops if your eyes feel dry.

If you work in a healthcare setting, kitchen, construction site or anywhere with infection risk, discuss your return date with your surgical team before going back.

Driving after cataract surgery

You must not drive until your vision meets the legal standard and your surgeon has confirmed it is safe. For most people, this is within a few days after the first post-operative check, but it varies. You need to be able to read a number plate at the required distance and feel comfortable with glare from headlights.

Do not drive while your eye is still sensitive, your vision is fluctuating, or you are using sedating pain relief. Your insurance may not be valid if you drive against medical advice, so check with your clinic first.

Exercise and sport

Light walking is fine almost immediately and is good for circulation and wellbeing. However, you should avoid strenuous exercise, swimming, hot tubs, saunas, and any activity that risks sweat, dust or water getting into the eye for at least one to two weeks. Yoga and Pilates are generally fine, but avoid inverted positions that put your head below your heart for the first week.

Contact sports, racquet sports and gym work that involves heavy lifting or straining should be postponed for two to four weeks, depending on your surgeon's advice. Swimming should be avoided for at least two weeks because pool water is not sterile.

Housework and gardening

Light housework is fine after a few days, but avoid tasks that create dust, involve bending double, or require lifting heavy objects. Vacuuming, ironing, laundry and washing up are usually fine once you feel comfortable. Delay gardening, cleaning gutters, moving furniture or carrying heavy shopping bags for at least a week.

If you need to clean, avoid aerosol sprays and use well-ventilated rooms. Wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect against wind, dust and bright light.

Eye make-up and grooming

Avoid eye make-up for at least one week, and ideally two. Mascara, eyeliner and eyeshadow can harbour bacteria and small particles. Face make-up can be used if you keep it away from the eye area. Avoid eyelash extensions and tinting until the eye has fully healed. Be careful when showering or washing your hair so that water and shampoo do not run into the eye.

Reading, screens and hobbies

Reading and screen use are safe once you feel comfortable, but you may find your eyes tire more easily for the first week. The operated eye may be slightly more light-sensitive or dry. Use lubricating drops, take regular breaks, and adjust screen brightness to reduce strain. Most people find their near vision improves significantly once the eye has settled.

Flying and travel

Short flights are usually safe after a few days, but check with your surgeon if you are planning to fly soon after surgery. Long-haul travel may increase dry eye and makes it harder to attend follow-up appointments. If you are travelling abroad, make sure you know where to seek urgent eye care if needed, and take enough eye drops with you.

When to seek help

Contact your clinic urgently if you experience severe pain, a sudden drop in vision, increasing redness or discharge, new flashes or floaters, or a curtain over your vision. These symptoms are uncommon, but early assessment is important. Otherwise, attend your scheduled follow-ups and use your drops as prescribed.

Next steps

If you have cataract surgery planned, use this guide to prepare your schedule. Arrange a few days off if possible, stock up on lubricating drops, and plan your post-operative appointments in advance. Most patients recover quickly and are delighted to get back to their routines with clearer, brighter vision.