Today, cataract surgery is the most frequently performed surgery among eye diseases and extremely successful results are obtained with the seamless phaco technique. Patient satisfaction is at the highest level with both phaco and femtosecond phaco techniques.
However, although rare, some undesirable complications may occur during or after surgery.
Cataract, which must be completely removed during surgery, may fall into the back fluid of the eye, called vitreous, due to some difficulties. Or the intraocular lens placed in the eye during surgery may fall into the back of the eye (vitreous fluid).
As I mentioned above, these rare complications may occur more frequently in some eyes;
- The eye has been hit before,
- Having undergone surgery (ocular pressure or vitrectomy),
- The pupil is not dilated sufficiently,
- Deep-set eyes,
- Those with certain connective tissue diseases are some of these situations.
It should not be forgotten that the surgeon’s experience is also an important factor. It is one of the determining factors in preventing this complication from occurring, or in intervening in the most appropriate way if it occurs.

Born on March 20, 1968, in İzmir, Prof. Dr. Tansu Erakgün completed his middle education at Saint Joseph College and his high school education at Karşıyaka Gazi High School. After graduating from Ege University Faculty of Medicine in 1992, which he entered in 1986, he began his residency training in the Department of Ophthalmology at Ege University Faculty of Medicine Hospital in the same year. In 1997, he became a specialist...
About Me VideosHow many days should attention be paid after cataract surgery?
Expert doctors provide detailed information on how many days to be careful after cataract surgery. Although cataract surgery is generally a very safe procedure, it has some risks, like any surgery. Most of these risks can occur in the first few days after surgery, and there are some issues that patients should pay attention to. After cataract surgery, one of the most important issues that patients should pay attention to is the protection of the eye where the surgery was performed. During this period, the risk of infection in the eye is high. Therefore, regular use of eye drops recommended by the doctor and protecting the eye using a protective goggle or bandage helps reduce the risk of infection. If there is pain or a severe burning sensation in the eye area, it is important to consult a doctor.
In rare cases, serious complications such as infection, bleeding, or changes in intraocular pressure may occur after cataract surgery. In these cases, it is important to contact the doctor immediately and get the necessary interventions. After cataract surgery, patients are advised to avoid putting pressure, harsh movements, bending or heavy lifting on the eye where the surgery was performed, and activities such as swimming or sauna may not be recommended for a while.
F.A.Q.
What are the complications of cataract surgery?
Complications of cataract surgery include: Drug side effects: Drugs used after cataract surgery may have side effects. Infection: Infection may occur within the eye after cataract surgery. Bleeding: Bleeding may occur within the eye during cataract surgery. Leaving pieces inside the eye: “During cataract surgery, cataract fragments may be left inside the eye. Increased eye pressure: Increased eye pressure may occur after cataract surgery. Corneal edema: Swelling and cloudiness may occur in the transparent layer of the eye.
How common are complications from cataract surgery?
Cataract surgeries are generally known as very effective surgeries and generally give positive results. When considered from this perspective, it can be said that complications that may arise from cataract surgery are quite rare. However, any complications occurring during cataract surgery can create some very dangerous situations for the patient. “For this reason, it is important that the surgery be performed by an experienced doctor and that the necessary precautions are taken before and after the surgery.
What is the recovery period after cataract surgery complications?
Cataract surgeries are generally known as very successful surgeries with good results. However, in very rare cases, some complications such as bleeding or corneal edema may occur in patients. The healing process of these complications depends on the nature of the complication and the surgical method applied to the patient. “It may vary considerably depending on the situation and it is not possible to specify an exact period.
References:
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/cataracts/complications-cataract-surgery
Chan, E., Mahroo, O. A., & Spalton, D. J. (2010). Complications of cataract surgery. Clinical and Experimental Optometry, 93(6), 379-389.
