Cataract surgery is a safe, quick, and painless procedure to remove the cloudy lens of the eye causing vision problems. It’s been a game-changer for millions and has a 98% success rate. Complications are rare but preset. Double vision after cataract surgery is a major inconvenience. It’s a concern for patients and requires further discussion.
In a typical scenario, your eyes will function independently. If you close one eye, the other can still see and capture its own set of images, transmitting them to the brain via the optic nerve. Seeing from both eyes combines all signals into a clear single picture with better depth perception. Double vision, or diplopia, is when you see multiple images of a single object or have blurred vision. It impairs your brain ability to process and combine both images.
Occasional bouts of diplopia can result from eye fatigue or excessive alcohol consumption. Underlying health conditions leading to double vision include dry eye syndrome, keratoconus, thyroid, stroke, and brain tumors.
Now the question is, “Is double vision common after having cataract surgery?” Simple Answer: It’s not! Double vision is an uncommon side effect of a cataract surgery. It’s also temporary as your brain adjusts to the new and improved visual input. Only 1-2% of patients experience it and the problem resolves within weeks.
If you ask, “Can it be caused because of a complication during the surgery,” the answer is that it is possible. Improper positioning of the implanted intraocular lens (IOL), damaged muscles, or inflammation can lead to diplopia. The complication can also seen when your vision system is manipulated after refractive surgeries like LASIK and with the use of topical anesthesia, but again, this is a rare complication.
Another cause of double vision after cataract surgery is having pre-existing strabismus. Any family history of strabismus is an invisible cause of diplopia. Even if it was mild or asymptomatic before, the surgery can trigger it and cause postoperative diplopia. If it was well-controlled previously, the cataract procedure can sometimes destabilize the eye alignment and lead to noticeable double vision. It is important to provide a proper history and inform your eye surgeon if there is a history of strabismus in your family.
What other symptoms can you feel besides double vision after cataract surgery? Sizziness, imbalance, worsening pain, mucous discharge, light sensitivity, migraines, sudden vision loss, glare, and halos have been noted as possibilities following cataract surgery. If you are experiencing consistent episodes of double vision following your cataract surgery, you should discuss it with your eye doctor.
Here’s more information on the cataract procedure to help you get started: A Definitive Guide to Cataract Surgery
Double vision is a part of the healing process. The question is, “How long does double vision last after cataract surgery?” It can occur immediately after the surgery and is most noticeable during the first 24 to 72 hours. You can also experience pressure, tenderness, aching, and some gritty feeling in the eyes. As the inflammation subsides and your eye muscles adjust to the new IOL, you can see significant improvement.
In another week or two after the procedure, the double vision will normally subside and you should be able to see much better. The itching and inflammation should go away as your eyes heal. By the end of a month, you should be able to resume your routine with much little to no pain or visual distortion. You will have multiple appointments with your surgeon to discuss your progress to help you understand the healing process. It can take anywhere between 3 and 6 months to fully stabilize your vision.
Although many patients recover without any issues, there’s always a slight risk. Get more information in our Cataract Center to better understand what to expect. All in all, diplopia is usually be temporary, but it can persist for longer, depending on how your eyes heal. If you have blurry vision even after the expected amount of days, you should contact your ophthalmologist immediately.
While occasional changes in your vision aren’t too concerning, persistent or sudden double vision can be disturbing. Severe visual disturbances will require immediate attention. While rare, double vision after cataract surgery can be corrected. The treatment plan will vary depending on what caused the double vision after cataract surgery. Here are some options that your ophthalmologist may discuss to correct double vision:
Prism glasses are an excellent option to correct the imbalance and realign the images your eyes see. These glasses bend light, correct misalignment, and allow for single vision. If only one has been operated on, your eye doctor can also prescribe using contacts in the non-operated eye and help with the imbalance. This way, you’re basically rewiring your brain to improve eye function.
Eye patches are a common options, but they aren’t the best option. You patch the non-operated eye to correct double vision. Once your second surgery is performed, you should be able to see better. It’s a temporary solution to remove the second image from your weaker eye and keep it from reaching your brain. You need to strictly follow the instructions from your eye doctor and follow the precise routine for wearing the patches, or you won’t get optimal results.
Another way to regain clear vision is with neuro-optometric rehabilitation. It’s a customizable eye exercise program to strengthen the connection between your eye muscles and the brain. This type of vision therapy aims to retrain your visual system, get your 3D vision back, and improve your quality of life. Your doctor will devise a targeted plan of action to help your eyes work in coordination and see more clearly following cataract surgery.
Double vision may be rare, but it’s possible and can be treated. There are ways to restore your visual skills and abilities impaired after cataract surgery. Work with your surgeon to find the best option and solve double vision after cataract surgery.
If you’re suffering from double vision after cataract surgery, help is available. At Milan Eye Center, we treat patients with post-cataract surgery complications and help improve their quality of life. If you’re still looking for an experienced ophthalmologist to perform your cataract surgery, we can assist you with that, too. Our patients report incredibly positive results. Call 678-381-2020 to book your appointment or schedule online now.
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