Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions, especially as people age. They cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, leading to blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing at night. Fortunately, cataract surgery is a highly effective and safe procedure that restores clear vision for millions of people worldwide. However, despite its success rate, many myths and misconceptions surround cataract surgery, causing unnecessary fear and hesitation. In this article, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths and provide you with the facts you need to make an informed decision about your eye health.
One of the most persistent myths is that cataracts must reach an advanced stage before they can be removed. This is outdated advice. Cataract surgery can be performed as soon as the condition starts to interfere with daily activities, such as reading, driving, or recognising faces. Waiting too long can actually make the procedure more complicated, as extremely dense cataracts are harder to remove. Modern surgical techniques allow cataracts to be treated at an earlier stage, leading to better outcomes and a smoother recovery.
Many people worry that cataract surgery is painful, but in reality, most patients experience little to no discomfort. The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake but won’t feel any pain. Numbing eye drops are used to ensure comfort, and some patients receive mild sedation to help them relax. Most report only a slight pressure or mild discomfort, and the entire surgery is usually completed within 15–20 minutes.
Another common misconception is that recovering from cataract surgery takes months. In truth, most patients notice an improvement in their vision within a few days, and many return to their normal routines within a week. While some precautions are necessary—such as avoiding heavy lifting, rubbing the eyes, or swimming for a few weeks—the overall recovery process is relatively quick. Eye drops are prescribed to aid healing and prevent infection, but there is usually minimal downtime.
Cataracts do not grow back after surgery. The cloudy lens is completely removed and replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL), which remains permanently in place. However, some patients may develop a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO), sometimes referred to as a "secondary cataract." This occurs when the capsule that holds the new lens becomes cloudy over time. Fortunately, this can be easily treated with a quick, painless laser procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy, restoring clear vision in minutes.
While cataracts are most commonly associated with ageing, they can develop at any stage of life due to a variety of factors. Genetics can play a significant role, meaning some individuals may be predisposed to developing cataracts earlier than others. Medical conditions such as diabetes can accelerate their formation, as high blood sugar levels can lead to changes in the lens, causing it to become cloudy over time. Similarly, prolonged use of steroid medications—whether for conditions like asthma, arthritis, or autoimmune diseases—can contribute to early cataract development.
Eye trauma is another potential cause, as injuries to the eye can damage the lens, leading to cataract formation even in younger individuals. In some cases, people are born with congenital cataracts, meaning the lens is already cloudy at birth. This may be due to genetic mutations, infections during pregnancy, or metabolic disorders.
Regardless of age, cataracts can significantly impact vision and overall quality of life. Symptoms such as blurred vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night can make everyday tasks challenging. Fortunately, cataract surgery is a safe and effective solution that can restore clear vision. If cataracts begin to interfere with daily activities, consulting an eye specialist can help determine the right time for surgery, ensuring the best possible outcome for vision and eye health.
Some people mistakenly believe that cataracts can be treated with special eye drops, herbal remedies, or by simply wearing corrective lenses. While glasses or contact lenses may temporarily improve vision in the early stages by compensating for some of the blurriness, they do not slow or halt the progression of cataracts. Over time, as the clouding of the lens worsens, even the strongest prescription glasses will no longer be effective.
Despite claims surrounding so-called "anti-cataract" eye drops or natural treatments, there is currently no scientific evidence to support the idea that any medication, supplement, or non-surgical intervention can reverse or dissolve cataracts. The clouding of the lens is a structural change within the eye, and once it occurs, the only proven method to restore clear vision is through cataract surgery.
Modern cataract surgery is a highly refined and minimally invasive procedure that replaces the cloudy lens with a clear artificial one, providing long-lasting vision improvement. If cataracts are beginning to impact daily activities, delaying surgery in the hope of alternative treatments may only lead to further deterioration of vision. Consulting an eye specialist is the best way to assess the severity of cataracts and explore the most effective solution.
Cataract surgery is one of the most frequently performed and safest surgical procedures worldwide, with millions of successful operations carried out each year. The success rate is remarkably high, with over 98% of patients experiencing significant improvement in their vision. The procedure has been refined over decades, and modern techniques ensure both precision and safety.
Serious complications are extremely rare, and when they do occur, they are typically mild and manageable with prompt treatment. Common temporary side effects, such as mild discomfort, dry eyes, or sensitivity to light, usually subside within a few days or weeks. In rare cases, minor complications like posterior capsule opacification (PCO), sometimes referred to as a “secondary cataract,” may develop, but this can be quickly and painlessly corrected with a simple laser treatment.
Technological advancements have further improved both the accuracy and outcomes of cataract surgery. Innovations such as premium intraocular lenses (IOLs) allow for even greater precision, reducing the likelihood of residual refractive errors and enhancing visual clarity. Customised lens options now provide solutions tailored to individual needs, with some lenses even correcting astigmatism or providing multifocal vision to reduce dependence on glasses.
With the combination of cutting-edge technology, skilled surgical expertise, and a well-established track record of safety, cataract surgery remains one of the most effective ways to restore clear vision and improve quality of life. If cataracts are affecting daily activities, consulting an ophthalmologist can help determine the best approach for treatment, ensuring a smooth and successful outcome.
Cataract surgery is typically performed on one eye at a time, with the second eye treated a few weeks later if needed. This allows the first eye to heal properly before operating on the other. However, in some cases, particularly in private clinics, both eyes may be treated on the same day if deemed appropriate by the surgeon.
Many people assume that after cataract surgery, they’ll still need reading glasses. While traditional monofocal lenses do correct either distance or near vision, advanced multifocal and accommodating lenses can help reduce dependence on glasses altogether. Your eye surgeon will discuss the best lens options based on your lifestyle and vision needs.
Some people believe that having conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy means they are not suitable candidates for cataract surgery. In reality, many of these patients can still undergo the procedure, and in some cases, it may even improve their overall eye health. However, a thorough assessment by an ophthalmologist is necessary to determine the best approach.
Cataract surgery is a safe, effective, and life-changing procedure that restores clear vision for millions of people each year. Unfortunately, myths and misconceptions often prevent individuals from seeking treatment, leading to unnecessary suffering. By understanding the facts, you can make an informed decision about your eye health and take advantage of modern medical advancements. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of cataracts, consult an eye specialist to discuss your options—there’s no need to let outdated myths stand in the way of better vision.
