Common Myths About Cataract Surgery

✅ Medically reviewed by Dr Sharon Heng

Key Takeaways

• Cataract surgery is extremely safe and effective. In the UK, data from a 2023 audit showed that fewer than 1 in 200 patients experienced a substantial reduction in vision following the operation, and major complications (such as posterior capsule rupture) now occur in less than 1%.

• Waiting for a cataract to become “ripe” is outdated. Modern guidelines recommend surgery when vision and quality of life are affected, rather than waiting for the cataract to become very dense. A UK statistics resource notes about 330,000 cataract operations are performed each year, and that 95% of cataracts are age-related, often affecting people over 40. 

• Recovery is typically quick and not painful. Most patients in the UK report improved vision after surgery, and the success rate in many studies reaches as high as 98%. 

• Some persistent beliefs are simply incorrect. For example: cataracts cannot “grow back” once the cloudy lens is replaced – though posterior capsule opacification (PCO) can occur (~15-20% within 5 years) and is treatable with a simple laser procedure. 

  
  

Cataracts are among the most common causes of visual decline worldwide, especially in older adults. Although treatment options are limited, cataract surgery remains the gold standard for restoring clear vision. Despite its proven safety and high success rate, many myths still influence how people perceive the procedure. 

These misconceptions can lead to unnecessary anxiety or delays in seeking help. A clear understanding of what cataract surgery actually involves can support better decision-making and protect long-term eye health.

Understanding Cataracts and Why Surgery Matters

A cataract develops when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, gradually impairing vision. This clouding affects how light enters the eye, making activities such as reading, night driving, and recognizing faces increasingly difficult. 

Early on, stronger glasses or improved lighting may help, but these measures only provide temporary relief. Because cataracts worsen over time, cataract surgery is ultimately the only definitive solution.

The procedure works by replacing the cloudy lens with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This restores the eye’s ability to focus and allows light to pass through unobstructed, providing sharper and more reliable vision.

Myth 1: Cataract Surgery Is Unusually Risky

A common misconception is that cataract surgery poses significant risks. In reality, it is one of the safest procedures in modern medicine. Advances in surgical techniques, imaging, and lens technology have reduced complications dramatically. Today’s operations use precise ultrasound energy, micro-incisions, and highly engineered IOLs that integrate seamlessly with the eye.

Most people are awake during the procedure but remain comfortable due to local anesthesia and gentle sedation. The surgery typically lasts less than 30 minutes, and patients often notice early visual improvements within the first few days.

Myth 2: Cataracts Must Be “Ripe” Before Removal

In previous generations, surgeons often waited until cataracts became extremely dense. This created the belief that one must delay intervention until vision is almost nonfunctional. Modern guidelines no longer follow this approach.

Today, the timing of cataract surgery depends on how much the cataract affects daily living. If blurred, hazy, or dim vision interferes with work, driving, hobbies, or reading, then surgery is appropriate. Waiting unnecessarily may compromise safety—especially for activities such as driving at night—as well as overall independence.

Myth 3: Recovery Is Long and Difficult

Many people imagine a lengthy, restrictive recovery, but modern healing timelines are much faster. Most individuals resume normal daily routines within a day or two, with full recovery typically occurring over several weeks. Eye drops are prescribed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation, and follow-up visits ensure that healing stays on track.

Mild itchiness, tearing, or slight discomfort may appear in the first day or two, but these symptoms fade quickly. For most patients, the speed and comfort of recovery reinforce why cataract removal surgery is such a trusted treatment approach.

Myth 4: Cataract Surgery Is Painful

Fear of pain is one of the strongest psychological barriers for patients. Fortunately, eye cataract surgery is designed to be virtually painless. Local anesthesia fully numbs the eye, and sedation provides relaxation without the need for general anesthesia. 

During the operation, patients may feel gentle pressure or see bright lights, but true pain is uncommon. After the procedure, any mild discomfort is usually short-lived. Simple over-the-counter pain relievers are more than enough for temporary irritation.

Myth 5: Cataracts Can Grow Back After Surgery

Some individuals believe that removing a cataract is temporary and that it can “grow back.” Once the cloudy lens is removed, it cannot regenerate. The artificial lens placed during lens replacement surgery does not develop cataracts.

However, a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO) can appear months or years later. This occurs when a thin membrane behind the new lens becomes cloudy. PCO is treated with a quick, painless laser procedure that clears the membrane and restores sharp vision—without needing another surgery. This distinction helps clarify why results from cataract surgery are considered permanent.

Myth 6: Only Older Adults Need Cataract Surgery

While cataracts are most common with age, younger adults can also develop them. Factors such as diabetes, eye trauma, steroid use, radiation exposure, and certain genetic conditions can cause cataracts earlier in life. 

Even individuals in their 30s or 40s may require cataract surgery if the visual impairment becomes significant. Recognising that cataracts are not strictly age-dependent helps prevent younger patients from overlooking important symptoms.

Myth 7: Glasses Can Delay or Avoid the Need for Surgery

Glasses may temporarily improve vision in early cataracts by adjusting refractive power, but they cannot stop or reverse the clouding of the natural lens. Because cataracts involve structural changes within the lens, only cataract surgery can restore long-term clarity once the condition progresses.

One advantage of modern surgery is the ability to choose IOLs designed to reduce dependence on glasses. Options include lenses for distance, near, astigmatism correction, or even multifocal vision. For many patients, this represents a major lifestyle improvement.

Myth 8: Surgery Is Only Needed When Vision Is Almost Gone

A persistent misconception is that surgery should be postponed until vision reaches an advanced stage of impairment. In truth, early intervention often leads to better outcomes. Dense cataracts may be harder to remove, and waiting too long can limit independence, reduce safety, and increase frustration.

Patients should consider cataract surgery when symptoms interfere with work performance, driving confidence, reading comfort, or general daily functioning. Addressing the issue earlier often means an easier procedure and a smoother recovery.

Myth 9: Both Eyes Must Be Treated at the Same Time

Some people assume that cataract surgery involves operating on both eyes in one session. In many countries, surgeons treat one eye first, allow it to heal, and then schedule the second eye shortly afterward. This ensures the first eye is stable before proceeding. However, in certain cases—particularly when rapid vision restoration is needed—same-day bilateral surgery may be offered. This decision is individualized and based on medical suitability.

Conclusion

Understanding the facts about cataract surgery helps dispel anxiety and encourages timely care. Modern surgical techniques have transformed the procedure into one of the safest and most effective interventions in ophthalmology. By recognizing and rejecting outdated myths, individuals can make confident, informed choices that safeguard lifelong vision.

If blurry, hazy, or dim vision affects your ability to enjoy daily life, consult an eye care professional. Clear information and early evaluation ensure that when cataract surgery becomes the recommended option, you are fully prepared to benefit from it.