Cataract eye surgery is one of the most common operations performed worldwide. With excesses of 20 million surgeries conducted annually, it is a well-established and safe method to restore eyesight. Nevertheless, despite its high performance, various myths and misconceptions surround cataract surgery. Here, we will clarify some common myths about cataract surgery and set the record straight regarding what you can expect from this procedure.

Myth 1: Cataract Surgery is Extremely Painful

One of the most persistent myths about cataract surgery is that this kind of surgery hurts. It generally shows good tolerance and minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia is done, usually using anesthetic eye drops or a small injection around the eye, which anesthetizes the area. Most patients report feeling only mild pressure or a sensation of movement during the surgery, but not pain. You may experience a little discomfort or even a gritty sensation after the surgery, but this usually goes away after a couple of days with assistance from painkillers and eye drops provided by an eye specialist.

Myth 2: Cataract Surgery Requires a Long Recovery Time

Many people believe that cataract surgery recovery takes weeks, or even months for a person to recover. However, patients experience quick recovery. In some cases, the surgery process lasts less than an hour, and most individuals automatically start to experience a difference in their vision. Most of them return to their normal activities within a few days. It may go for a few weeks until full vision stabilization, but the recovery time is much shorter than it is usually perceived to be.

Myth 3: You Can’t Have Cataract Surgery if You Have Other Eye Conditions

Another common myth is that if you have other eye conditions, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, you cannot have cataract surgery. While it is true that these conditions might complicate surgery procedures, it does not exclude one from having surgery. In some patients, cataract surgery even improves the vision of a co-existent condition. Your ophthalmologist will examine your eyes meticulously and personalize your surgery for the best results considering other health issues that may affect your eyes.

Myth 4: Cataract Surgery Guarantees Perfect Vision

Cataract surgery can significantly improve vision but doesn’t result in perfect eyesight. The purpose of surgery is to restore clarity and function to your vision, which is subject to modification depending on health with relation to the retina and other eye health concerns. For many, improvement can be dramatic, with attainment of a 20/20 vision or close to it. However, results vary individually. Your eye doctor will discuss with you about what you can expect and what is realistic to expect after the surgery.

Myth 5: Cataract Surgery Can Cause Vision Problems or Complications

Cataract eye surgery is a safe procedure, just like any surgical intervention, there are still some risks regarding complications. Serious complications are rare. Advanced surgical techniques and technology make cataract surgery one of the safest procedures. Common complications, such as infections or inflammation, are easily treatable with medication. The surgeon will provide you with all of the necessary information about post-operative care, instructions to minimize risks, and how to ensure a smooth recovery.

Myth 6: Cataract Surgery is not Only for Old People

Cataract surgery is closely related to old age but can develop at any age. Cataracts may be congenital, and rarely, trauma or even certain medications can cause cataracts. Younger patients with cataracts may benefit from surgery if their quality of life is impacted. The decision to undergo cataract surgery is based on the impact of the cataracts on vision and daily activities, not just age.

Myth 7: You Can’t Drive or Go Back to Work After Cataract Surgery

This myth states that after cataract surgery, the patient will not be able to drive or return to work for a long time. The truth is most patients can resume driving and go back to work pretty quickly after surgery. The patient should not drive for at least 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Resume the car driving once urged to do so by the relevant surgeon. People can usually go back to work after a few days. Those with more strenuous jobs may need a little more time. Always follow your surgeon’s advice about resuming normal activities.

Myth 8: There is a one-size-fits-all cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is very individualized for the patient. There are several intraocular lenses, or IOLs, that surgeons use to correct vision after surgery. In addition to clarity, the lenses can be customized for your particular problems with vision, such as astigmatism or presbyopia. Your ophthalmologist will describe the options available to you and may give an opinion on what may work best for your vision needs and lifestyle.

Myth 9: Cataracts Don’t Reoccur After Being Operated On

Once cataract surgery is done, the cataract itself doesn’t come back. However, in some people, a condition arises wherein the membrane holding the lens, called posterior capsule opacification, becomes cloudy over time. This causes the vision to blur once more. This can easily be treated with a quick YAG laser capsulotomy to restore clear vision.

Myth 10: Cataract Surgery is Required Only When Vision Loss is Severe

But most people think that vision has to be severely compromised before surgery is necessary. And because of this wrong perception, many delay seeking treatment. The proper time for cataract surgery is when it’s already bothering you, and disrupting your activities. The severity of cataract symptoms can vary, and even mild to moderate vision impairment can significantly affect your ability to drive, read, or perform other essential tasks.

Conclusion

Understanding the facts and myths about cataract surgery can help alleviate concerns and misconceptions. it is a safe, highly effective minimally invasive procedure with very high success rates and relatively short recovery times. Hopefully, by debunking the myths, we have clarified what this procedure is all about and give you the information you need to make an appropriate, informed decision concerning the health of your eyes. If you have any doubts or questions about cataract surgery, consult an ophthalmologist who will advise you and provide solutions to all your questions.

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Written and Verified by:

DR. RUBY PANDEY

MBBS DOMS

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