Bloodshot eyes after cataract surgery: Causes, recovery, and when to seek help

Cataract surgery is one of the most effective and commonly performed eye surgeries worldwide, with a high success rate and minimal complications for most patients. It replaces the clouded natural lens with a clear artificial lens, restoring sharpness and colour to your vision.

While the procedure is safe and the recovery is usually smooth, some patients notice bloodshot eyes in the days after surgery. This can look alarming—especially if the eye appears bright red or patchy—but in most cases, it is a harmless and temporary side effect.

In this guide, we will explore in detail:

• Why bloodshot eyes can occur after cataract surgery.
  
  
• How long the redness might last.
  
  
• Recovery tips to speed healing.
  
  
• Warning signs that mean you should call your surgeon immediately.
  
  

Why do eyes become bloodshot after cataract surgery?

Bloodshot eyes occur when the small, delicate blood vessels on the white surface of your eye (the sclera) become enlarged or rupture. After cataract surgery, there are several reasons this might happen:

1. Subconjunctival haemorrhage

• This is one of the most common reasons for bloodshot eyes after cataract surgery.
  
  
• During the procedure, a tiny blood vessel may rupture—either from the surgical instruments or from the anaesthetic injection given around the eye.
  
  
• It creates a bright red patch on the white of the eye.
  
  
• This looks worse than it feels—it is usually painless and does not harm your vision.

2. Post-surgical inflammation

• Even with a smooth operation, your eye will respond with a mild inflammatory reaction.
  
  
• This can make the blood vessels more prominent, causing redness.
  
  
• Your surgeon will prescribe anti-inflammatory drops to help reduce this.

3. Dry eyes

• Cataract surgery can temporarily reduce tear production or disrupt the tear film.
  
  
• This can leave your eyes feeling gritty, itchy, and red, especially in the first few weeks.

4. Reaction to medicated eye drops

• Antibiotic and steroid drops are essential for recovery, but in some patients, they may cause mild surface irritation or reactions, leading to redness.

5. Temporary increase in eye pressure

• In rare cases, eye pressure can rise after surgery.
  
  
• This may lead to redness, discomfort, or blurred vision, and should be checked promptly.

How long does redness last after cataract surgery?

Recovery time varies depending on the cause of the redness and your general healing rate:

• Mild redness or slight pinkness: Usually fades within 3–5 days.
  
  
• Subconjunctival haemorrhage: Can take 1–3 weeks to clear completely, as the blood reabsorbs naturally.
  
  
• Inflammation-related redness: Gradually improves over 1–2 weeks with prescribed eye drops.
  
  

If redness persists beyond 3 weeks, or if it worsens after initially improving, it is important to book a review with your surgeon.

Recovery timeline after cataract surgery (and what is normal for redness)

Day 1–3

• Mild redness or a blood patch may be visible.
  
  
• Vision may be slightly blurry due to swelling.
  
  
• Sensitivity to light is common.

Day 4–7

• Redness usually begins to fade.
  
  
• Any subconjunctival haemorrhage will still be visible but should not expand.
  
  
• The eye feels more comfortable.

Week 2–3

• Redness significantly reduces or disappears.
  
  
• Vision should be clearer and colours brighter.
  
  
• Eye pressure and inflammation should be settling.

Beyond Week 3

• Most patients have no redness.
  
  
• If redness persists or worsens, it should be investigated.
  
  

How to help your eyes heal faster?

Here are steps you can take to support healing and reduce redness after cataract surgery:

1. Follow your eye drop schedule
   

   • Use your prescribed antibiotic and steroid drops exactly as instructed.
     
     
   • Missing doses may delay healing or increase the risk of infection.
     
     

2. Protect your eyes
   

   • Wear your provided protective shield at night for the first week to prevent accidental rubbing.
     
     
   • Use sunglasses outdoors to shield your eyes from bright light and wind.
     
     

3. Avoid eye rubbing
   

   • Even if your eyes feel itchy or irritated, do not rub them—this can disrupt healing and spread bacteria.
     
     

4. Rest and avoid strain
   

   • For the first week, avoid heavy lifting, bending over for long periods, or strenuous exercise.
     
     

5. Keep your eye area clean
   

   • Wash hands before touching your face.
     
     
   • Avoid getting soap or shampoo directly into your eyes.
     
     

When should you seek medical help?

While some redness is normal after cataract surgery, you should contact your eye specialist urgently if you notice:

• Severe or increasing pain that is not relieved by prescribed medications.
  
  
• Sudden loss or drop in vision.
  
  
• Significant swelling around the eye or eyelids.
  
  
• Yellow or green discharge from the eye.
  
  
• Redness spreads or worsens after the first week.
  
  
• Flashes of light or new floaters in your vision.
  
  

These could be signs of infection, bleeding inside the eye, or retinal detachment—all of which require immediate attention.

Conclusion

Bloodshot eyes after cataract surgery are generally nothing to worry about and usually clear within a couple of weeks. The key is to follow your aftercare instructions, protect your eye from injury, and attend all follow-up appointments so your surgeon can monitor healing.

At Clarity Eye Surgeons, we provide personalised care and close monitoring during your recovery to ensure the best possible visual outcome. If you ever feel unsure about your symptoms after surgery, our team is just a phone call away.

Contact Clarity Eye Surgeons today to speak with our friendly team or book an appointment with one of our specialists.

Author bio

Dr Parth Shah is a leading ophthalmologist in Canberra, specialising in cataract surgery. With extensive training and experience, he is renowned for his expertise in the field. Dr Shah is dedicated not only to performing successful surgeries but also to patient education. His compassionate approach, combined with technical proficiency, has earned him the trust and gratitude of countless patients. He is a true advocate for eye health and a trusted name in the Canberra ophthalmology community.

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