Infection
A certain kind of infection, known as endophthalmitis, can grow inside the eye. This type of cataract surgery risk is usually caused by bacteria entering the eye during surgery.
The most common bacterial infection can be due to Staphylococcus epidermidis, found naturally on the skin and eyelids. If it penetrates the eye during or after surgery, it can cause redness, severe pain, and blindness.
Once you’ve been diagnosed with an infection, you must begin taking antibiotics as soon as possible. If the infection has already spread, you might also need surgery again to remove any damaged tissue.
Be sure to let your doctor know immediately if you notice signs of infection, including:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Green, yellow, or milky discharge
