A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that causes blurry or dull vision, increased sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataract surgery restores clarity by removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

Once a cataract is removed, it does not grow back. However, some individuals may experience a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which mimics cataract symptoms but is not considered a true cataract.

PCO can develop weeks, months, or even years after cataract surgery, but it is easy to treat and typically results in rapid improvement in vision.

Can Cataracts Come Back?

Cataracts cannot return once they are removed during surgery. The procedure involves removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial IOL. Since the IOL is made of materials like acrylic or silicone, a cataract cannot form again on this new lens.

What Are Secondary Cataracts?

Some patients may notice blurred vision after surgery due to posterior capsule opacification, also referred to as a secondary cataract. While the symptoms can be similar, PCO is not a true cataract and is highly treatable.

What causes PCO

PCO affects about 40% of people after cataract surgery. It occurs when leftover cells from the natural lens begin to grow across the posterior capsule—a thin membrane that holds the artificial lens in place—causing it to become cloudy.

How PCO affects vision

As this cloudy layer thickens, it can blur your vision, much like a cataract did before surgery. You may experience similar symptoms, such as decreased clarity, glare, or faded colors.

How Is PCO Treated?

Secondary cataracts are treated with a quick, painless procedure called a posterior capsulotomy. During this treatment, an eye doctor uses a laser to create a small opening in the cloudy membrane, allowing light to pass through clearly. This outpatient procedure typically takes only a few minutes and results in immediate improvement in vision.

What To Expect From Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is a short procedure, usually lasting around 30 minutes. It involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with a clear artificial one. Most patients are discharged the same day and recover at home.

During the procedure

  • Numbing the eye: You’ll stay awake during surgery, but your eye will be numbed using special drops or an injection. You might also receive medication to help you relax.

  • Removing the cataract: The surgeon creates small openings in your eye, often near the cornea, and uses a phaco probe (an ultrasound tool) to break up and remove the cloudy lens. Then, the artificial IOL is inserted. The incisions are usually self-healing and don’t require stitches.

  • Post-surgery monitoring: After surgery, you'll rest briefly in a recovery area before heading home. You'll be given detailed care instructions to follow during recovery.

Recovery and Healing Time

Most patients experience mild discomfort such as itchiness, light sensitivity, or dryness for a few days. Eye drops are prescribed to prevent infection and reduce swelling. A protective shield is often recommended during sleep to prevent accidental rubbing.

Vision typically improves within a few days, while full healing can take two to four weeks. During this time, patients should avoid heavy lifting, bending over, or getting water into the eye. Your eye doctor will schedule follow-up visits to track your healing progress and assess whether your glasses prescription needs adjustment.

Cataract surgery is highly successful, and about 90% of patients experience significantly improved vision afterward.

Potential Complications

Although cataracts do not return, the surgery itself can have risks. While generally safe, a small percentage of patients may experience complications requiring additional treatment.

Possible issues

  • Eye infection

  • Bleeding in the eye

  • Swelling in or around the eye

  • Retinal detachment (when the retina pulls away from the back of the eye)

  • Dislocated intraocular lens (when the artificial lens shifts)

  • Blurred vision, halos, or shadowy areas

When surgery is needed again

  • Lens dislocation: A dislocated IOL may require repositioning or replacement.

  • Retinal detachment: This is a medical emergency and must be surgically treated.

  • Severe bleeding: Rare but serious bleeding may require a vitrectomy to preserve vision.

Contact your eye doctor right away if you experience sudden vision changes, intense eye pain, or worsening symptoms after surgery. Early intervention helps prevent long-term damage.

Post-Surgery Care and Expectations

Most patients recover without major issues, and vision usually improves within a few days. However, it can take several months for the eyes to feel completely adjusted. Proper aftercare ensures smoother healing and reduces the chance of complications.

Recommended care

  • Use prescribed eye drops as directed to fight infection and inflammation

  • Wear a protective shield while sleeping for a few nights

  • Expect mild discomfort, like irritation or sensitivity to light, which should resolve quickly

  • Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor progress

What to avoid

  • Rubbing or touching your eye

  • Lifting heavy objects or performing strenuous activities

  • Bending over for the first 48 hours

  • Swimming or using hot tubs for at least two weeks

  • Driving until your doctor confirms it's safe

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice sudden vision loss, flashes of light, new floaters, a dark curtain across your vision, nausea, vomiting, or severe coughing.

A Quick Review

Although cataracts do not come back after surgery, a secondary condition called PCO may occur. This condition mimics cataract symptoms but is easily treatable with a laser procedure.

Most patients recover well after cataract surgery. Following your doctor’s instructions, avoiding strenuous activity, and protecting your eyes will support healing and help you achieve the best possible results.