Top Myths About Cataract Surgery You Should Stop Believing
Introduction: Clearing the Fog Around Cataract Surgery
Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss worldwide, and fortunately, cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective procedures in modern medicine. Yet, many people delay or avoid surgery because of misconceptions, half-truths, or stories they’ve heard from others.
In Abu Dhabi, led by Dr. Madhava Rao – Surgical Retina Eye Specialist in Abu Dhabi, we often meet patients who walk in with unnecessary fears. Let’s debunk the most common myths about cataract surgery so you can make confident, informed decisions about your eye health.
👉 Learn more about our cataract surgery in Abu Dhabi.
Myth 1: Cataract Surgery Is Risky and Unsafe
Truth: Cataract surgery is one of the safest surgeries worldwide, with a success rate of over 95% according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Advances in technology, such as phacoemulsification and premium intraocular lenses (IOLs), make complications rare.
Myth 2: Cataracts Must Be ‘Ripe’ Before Surgery
Many patients wait until vision becomes severely impaired.
Truth: Modern cataract surgery can be performed at any stage once vision affects daily activities—driving, reading, or working. Waiting too long can actually increase surgical risks, especially if the lens becomes too hard.
Myth 3: Cataract Surgery Causes Pain
Truth: The procedure is virtually painless. Patients receive local anesthesia (eye drops or injection), and most describe the sensation as mild pressure, not pain.
Myth 4: Recovery Takes Months
Truth: Most patients see improvement in just a few days, and full recovery usually takes 2–4 weeks. With proper care and follow-up, many resume normal activities quickly
Myth 5: The New Lens Can Be Rejected by the Body
Truth: Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are made from biocompatible materials, meaning your body will not reject them. Complications like inflammation are rare and treatable.
Myth 6: Cataract Surgery Can Make Vision Worse
Truth: Some people worry about regrets after cataract surgery. However, outcomes are excellent when performed by experienced surgeons. Issues like lens implant selection mistakes or unaddressed dry eye can be avoided with thorough pre-surgery evaluation.
Myth 7: Cataracts Can Come Back After Surgery
Truth: Once a cataract is removed, it does not grow back. What sometimes happens is posterior capsule opacification (PCO), a clouding of the lens capsule. This is easily treated with a quick, painless YAG laser procedure.
Myth 8: Cataract Surgery Is Only for the Elderly
Truth: While cataracts are more common in older adults, they can also develop earlier due to diabetes, trauma, steroid use, or genetics. Surgery is recommended based on vision needs, not just age.
Myth 9: Glasses Won’t Be Needed After Surgery
Truth: Many patients achieve excellent vision without glasses, especially with advanced IOLs (multifocal or toric). However, some may still need glasses for specific tasks like reading fine print.
Myth 10: One Eye Surgery Is Enough—The Other Eye Can Wait Indefinitely
Truth: Leaving one eye untreated can cause anisometropia (unequal vision), leading to poor depth perception, eye strain, and imbalance. In many cases, treating both eyes provides the best outcome.
The Real Risks of Delaying Cataract Surgery
- Increased lens hardness (making surgery more complex)
- Greater risk of glaucoma and retinal damage
- Reduced independence and higher risk of falls
👉 This is why many patients in the UAE choose timely cataract surgery for safe and lasting vision improvement.
Why Choose Dr. Madhava Rao?
- Expertise of Dr. Madhava Rao – leading Surgical Retina & Cataract Specialist
- Advanced surgical technology and premium IOL options
- Personalized consultation to avoid cataract surgery regrets
- Comprehensive aftercare to ensure smooth recovery
👉 Book your consultation today for safe and advanced cataract surgery UAE.
FAQs – Voice Search Optimized
1. Is cataract surgery painful?
No, it’s painless. Patients may feel mild pressure but no sharp pain.
2. How long does cataract surgery take?
The procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes per eye.
3. Can cataracts come back after surgery?
No, cataracts cannot return, but lens capsule clouding (PCO) can occur and is easily treated with a laser.
4. What happens if cataract surgery is delayed too long?
Delays can lead to harder cataracts, surgical risks, and complications like glaucoma.
5. Will I need glasses after cataract surgery?
Many don’t, especially with advanced lenses, but some may still need glasses for certain tasks.
Protect Your Sight Today
Don’t let cataract myths stop you from clear vision. If you’re experiencing blurred vision, glare, or difficulty seeing at night, it’s time to consult an expert.
📞 Book your appointment with Dr. Madhava Rao – Surgical Retina Eye Specialist in Abu Dhabi for advanced and safe cataract care.
👉 Visit us here: cataract surgery in Abu Dhabi
