How long will blurred vision last after anesthesia?

Question

How long will blurred vision last after anesthesia? I can't see anything close up but I can see far off. I read that this was one of the side effects of being under anesthesia and it should go away in a couple days. I have always had perfect vision so this is very hard for me. When I woke up in recovery my eyes watered for 10-15 minutes but it wasn't until i got home and I tried to read a magazine and text on my phone did I realize that I can't see anymore.

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

It's a great question. It's difficult to say without knowing the exact details of your procedure. However, during this after anesthesia typically resolve's within hours. However, it's common for anesthesiologists to use a scopolamine patch. This patch is used to prevent nausea, but has the side effect of blurry vision. If you have concerns, reach out to your doctor so that they can give you the most helpful advice.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

This is likely due to your scopolamine patch that was behind your ear to prevent nausea.  Your vision should improve within hours to the next day along with any dry mouth you may have.  I would recommend you contact your surgeon to make him/her aware of your situation.

The best way to assess and give
true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified
plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and I am sorry to hear of your blurred vision.  Most patients may have blurring for about a day after surgery, largely a result of anesthesia, but also due to any ointment placed into the eye to prevent them from drying out.  If you had significant tearing after surgery you may have suffered a corneal abrasion which can also affect your vision. These normally spontaneously heal within a couple of days.  If your poor vision persists, voice your concerns with your surgeon, they can refer you to an eye specialist.

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question! You blurry vision is likely due to the use of a Scopalamine patch before for the procedure. The patch is very effective in helping peri-operative nausea, but can cause haziness to the eyes and dry mouth. The side effects should resolve within 24 hours. If not, I recommend you see your surgeon.

Nora Nugent, FRCSI (Plast) · Answer

Dear 2016willbemyyear,
Thank you for posting your question.  Symptoms like this usually resolve quickly and are usually either related to a side effect of medication or to ointment placed in your eye to protect it during anaesthesia. However, I would always recommend contacting your plastic surgeon to let them know about this and checking if either of the above mentioned causes relate to you. If you have any other symptoms such as pain in your eye, then this is particularly important to do so.
Best wishes

How long will blurred vision last after anesthesia?

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How long will blurred vision last after anesthesia?

Answers (7)

Answer: How long will I have blurry vision after anesthesia?

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Answer: Blurred vision after anaesthetic

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