Eye health resources

Dry eye symptoms after cataract surgery

Learn why many people experience dry eye after cataract surgery, how long it might last, and ways your eye doctor may recommend treating the discomfort.

Medically reviewed on September 22, 2025

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Published on February 10, 2026

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5 minute read

The prevalence of cataract surgery

Cataracts tend to be very common as you get older. In fact, more than 50% of Americans over the age of 80 experience cataracts. Fortunately, surgery to treat cataracts is a highly successful procedure with a good track record for safety. It's also one of the most common surgeries in the U.S., helping millions of people regain clear vision every year. It works by replacing the eye’s cloudy natural lens with a clear, artificial one.

What are cataracts?

Why do people experience eye dryness after cataract surgery?

While the surgery has a high success rate, some patients may experience side effects during recovery. One of the most common side effects is dry eye symptoms, which can cause discomfort, irritation, and blurry vision. Fortunately, post-surgical dry eye is usually temporary, and there are potential treatments to help relieve symptoms.

Surgery temporarily disrupts tear production

When your doctor performs cataract surgery, they make an incision into your cornea to be able to reach your lens and replace it. This disrupts your eye’s ability to sense dryness, so when the surface of the eye begins to dry out, it doesn’t trigger the need to produce more tears. Until this “feedback loop” heals, you may struggle with eye dryness.

Pre-existing dry eye

If you already had dry eye, symptoms might become even more noticeable after surgery because the side effects of the cataract surgery can compound with other causes like meibomian gland dysfunction. This is why many eye doctors try to treat a patient’s dry eye before their cataract surgery.

Symptoms of dry eye after cataract surgery

Dry eye after cataract surgery typically won’t feel much different than dry eye from other causes, however, if you experienced dry eye before cataract surgery, it could be more severe after. Symptoms of dry eye after cataract surgery may include:

Sensitivity to light
Redness and irritation
Blurry vision that clears when you blink
A gritty or scratchy feeling, like something’s in your eye
Excessive tearing (your eyes trying to compensate for dryness)

Possible management options

There are some common approaches your eye doctor may recommend for managing dry eye associated with cataract surgery.

Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops
Prescription eye drops
Warm compresses and eyelid care
Omega-3 supplements
Humidifiers & environmental adjustments

Contact your eye doctor with any questions

Whether you’re considering cataract surgery or have already had surgery and are looking for more information, the best person to reach out to is your eye doctor. They’ll be able to provide the best resources and recommendations for you and your eyes.

Find an eye doctor

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Will dry eye symptoms go away after cataract surgery?

Dry eyes after surgery are usually temporary and can last for several months. If you had dry eyes before surgery, your symptoms may take longer to improve or may persist.

Can I use lubricating eye drops after cataract surgery?

Yes! Artificial tears can help make your eyes more comfortable.

How long will it take for my eyes to feel normal after cataract surgery?

Most people notice clearer vision within days, with full recovery taking about four weeks in most cases.

When should I see a doctor for dry eyes?

You should always consult your eye doctor with any/all questions you have about your eye health, but especially if your symptoms are ongoing or concerning, or if you are experiencing severe redness, pain, blurry vision, or excessive tearing.

What's next?

Dry eye—causes, symptoms, potential treatments

About dry eye

Lubricating eye drops for dry eye

Learn about eye drops for dry eye

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