Cataract Surgery Complications

As with all surgical procedures, there are complications that may occur with cataract surgery. Complications associated with cataract surgery are usually classified as minor or major. Most minor cataract surgery complications are temporary and are often easily treated by healthcare providers. Examples of minor complications seen with cataract surgery include double vision, droopy eyelid, and increased pressure in the eye. Major complications with cataract surgery are rare and may include severe infection, detached retina, and swelling.

 

Cataract Surgery Complications: An Overview

Cataract surgery is a usually a safe and effective procedure. Unlike cataract surgery of a few decades ago, there is no need for prolonged bed rest and hospitalization. However, as with all surgical procedures, there are some possible cataract surgery complications that can develop.
 
Cataract surgery complications that can occur with this procedure are classified as minor or major.
 

Minor Cataract Surgery Complications

In most cases, minor complications of cataract surgery are temporary and are often easily treated by your healthcare providers with medication, extra visits, or additional surgery.
 
Possible minor cataract surgery complications include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Increased pressure within the eye
  • Double vision
  • Droopy eyelid
  • Wound leaks
  • Clouding behind the lens capsule (also known as a secondary cataract)
  • Equipment failure.
     
(Cataract Surgery Complications Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD