In the post operative period you should be under the care of the surgeon Eye MD ophthalmologist and not farmed out to an optom to take care of you. Return to the surgeon and discuss your problem. It should still be covered under your surgical fee.
JCH III MD
I had my second cataract surgery ten days ago having had the first a month before. I have a slight problem with a 'gritty' feeling sometimes but it isn't constant as yours appears to be however my doc recommended otc artificial tears as needed. Sometimes I use them several times in an hour sometimes only a couple of times a day. I use Systane at my docs suggestion but there are several on the market. Worth a try if your doc says the eye is good.