Is Direct Sunlight Dangerous After Cataract Surgery?

By Staff WriterLast Updated April 03, 2020

Direct sunlight can be dangerous after cataract surgery, and it is important that patients protect their recently operated-on eyes from sun damage by wearing sunglasses, according to Chicagoland Eye Consultants. Some doctors ask patients to wear an eye patch for up to a few days after surgery, states Mayo Clinic.

It is not necessarily to completely avoid sunlight after recovering from cataract surgery as most patients can resume outdoor sports such as golf and tennis within a week, according to Gulf Coast Eye Care.

However, using simple forms of eye protection such as sunglasses and hats is advisable because prolonged exposure to sunlight is an environmental risk factor for developing cataracts initially, notes the National Eye Institute.