Common Cataract Myths Debunked

There are a lot of misconceptions surrounding cataracts. We believe the following myths are misleading and, crucially, putting people off transformative surgery that could restore their sight and independence.

To help debunk common cataract myths, our leading ophthalmic experts are here to present the facts around cataracts.

Myth: You have to wait for your cataract to be ‘ripe’ to remove it

FALSE. This concept is entirely outdated. You can have a cataract removed as soon as the diagnosis confirms that the symptoms are negatively impacting your lifestyle. Avoiding delay means that your vision can be restored sooner, before the condition seriously affects your day-to-day activities, work, or driving ability. 

Modern cataract surgery does not require the lens to be at any specific stage of clouding.  Delaying cataract surgery is not without risk: prolonged waiting can increase the likelihood of falls and vision-related morbidity, reduce independence and quality of life, and may make later surgery technically more difficult with higher operative and postoperative risk.

Myth: A cataract is a film which grows across the surface of the eye

FALSE. A cataract is not an external growth. It is, in fact, the clouding of the natural lens located inside the eye. This very common age-related condition is expected to affect one in three people aged over 65 years, developing internally as the lens proteins naturally clump together over time.

Myth: I can still drive safely with cataracts

FALSE. Cataracts pose a genuine risk to driving safety. As the nights draw in, people with cataracts will increasingly notice strong glare and halos from oncoming car lights, coupled with faded colours and cloudy, dim vision. These symptoms make driving, particularly after dark or in low light level conditions, demonstrably dangerous. If you are noticing these changes, a consultation with your optician or optometrist is highly advisable.

Myth: Cataract surgery is complicated and means an overnight stay in the hospital

FALSE. With the high degree of skill employed by modern surgeons and the latest technological advancements, this is a straightforward, painless procedure for the patient and is managed as a day case. We can confirm that the eyeball is absolutely not removed! The eyelids are gently held open, and the procedure is typically performed using local anaesthetic eye drops, often taking less than 20 minutes per eye. This efficient process makes it the most commonly performed elective day-case surgical procedure globally.

To gain a deeper understanding of precisely how our experts perform cataract surgery, learn more in our guide.

Myth: I will still need to wear glasses after my cataract operation

TRUE (with a crucial difference). If you needed glasses for reading and/or distance vision before your cataract developed, a standard cataract removal procedure (utilising a monofocal lens) will mean you will likely still need them afterwards.

However, outside of the NHS standard offering, you can opt to ‘upgrade’ to a premium intraocular lens (IOL), such as those used in Optegra’s Cataract Refractive Surgery. This provides a unique opportunity to reduce or potentially eliminate your dependence on glasses for near and far vision at the very moment your cataract is removed. It is the exact same surgical process, but with a more advanced, customised lens.

Your Cataract Treatment Options

Optegra is proud to offer a comprehensive range of cataract treatment options to help those affected by cataracts restore their vision and quality of life.

• Standard Cataract Surgery: Available privately or through the NHS, this procedure restores clearer vision by replacing your clouded lens with a standard monofocal lens implant.
• Refractive Cataract Surgery: This premium option not only removes your cataract but also includes replacing your natural lens with an enhanced monofocal, extended depth of focus or multifocal lens. This advanced choice means your reliance on glasses can be significantly reduced or potentially eradicated.

Book a Free Consultation with our Experts, Today!

With Optegra, you’re in safe hands. Our nationwide dedicated eye hospitals are the epitome of comfort, and you’ll be treated by one of our expert cataract eye surgeons.

If you’re suffering from cataracts, get in touch today for a free, no-obligation consultation or arrange a callback for a time that is suitable for you.