Which of the following is a common complication following cataract surgery?

Retinal detachment is indeed a recognized complication that can occur after cataract surgery. Cataract surgery involves the removal of the cloudy lens from the eye and its replacement with an artificial lens. While this procedure is generally safe and effective, the manipulation of the eye can sometimes lead to changes in the vitreous gel, which may cause it to pull away from the retina, potentially leading to a detachment.

Patients who have undergone cataract surgery are already at an increased risk for retinal detachment due to the natural aging process and the underlying conditions that necessitate the surgery. This risk highlights the importance of post-operative monitoring, as early detection of symptoms associated with retinal detachment, such as flashes of light or a sudden increase in floaters, can lead to timely intervention and better outcomes.

Other options listed may also be associated with eye surgery, but they are either less commonly resulting directly from cataract surgery or are not immediate complications. While glaucoma can develop post-surgery due to various reasons, it is typically a longer-term concern rather than an immediate complication. Corneal opacity can occur post-operatively, often due to other factors like epithelial healing issues or pre-existing conditions, but it is not as direct a consequence as retinal detachment. Intraocular