Posted by: Updegraff Laser Vision in News

Myth:

Cataract Surgery is Painful

Fact:

Cataract surgery might be considered uncomfortable, but should not be painful. After a light sedation, the doctor will numb your eye. Once numbed, a small incision is made through which the cataract can be broken up with an ultrasound and removed. Your clouded lens will then be replaced with a synthetic one. According to an AARP Eye Health Study, 80% of people polled say cataract surgery was easier than expected.

Myth:

I will be able to tell when I need surgery

Fact:

Since most cataracts develop slowly and gradually over time, most people do not realize how cloudy their vision has become. Many patients say that before surgery their cataracts have no impact on their daily activities. After the surgery most patients see the difference immediately and according to AARP, “62% find they are enjoying life more.”

Myth:

It’s normal to see halos around lights

Fact:

Generally, halos around lights are symptoms of something more. Halos (along with cloudy vision) are the most common signs of cataracts. If you are experiencing halos around lights, it is important to visit your eye-care specialist because halos can also symptoms of Corneal disease and other vision problems. To make an appointment with Dr. Updegraff please click here.

Myth:

Cataracts are unrelated to overall health

Fact:

In most cases, cataracts are a result of normal aging. However, they can be a side effect of other health problems such as diabetes or high blood pressure. They can also be a result of steroid medication.

Myth:

I’ll need reading glasses after cataract surgery

Fact:

Since every cataract case and surgery are different you might not need reading glasses after surgery. Mulitfocal (also known as “monovision”) replacement lenses can reduce the need for glasses in certain cases. Since these lenses correct vision at various points, near and far, they are considered a upgrade beyond standard replacement lenses.

Myth:

Cataracts always require surgery

Fact:

Surgery is not a requirement for patients with cataracts. Some people choose to forgo surgery because the cataract does not interfere with their “overall quality of life.”

Myth:

There is nothing I can do to prevent cataracts

Fact:

Although cataracts are a normal part of aging, you can take steps to help in prevention. Wearing sunglasses, in winter as well as summer, helps protect your eyes from the harmful UV radiation. This is important because chronic UV radiation exposure can help cataracts grow faster.

Myth:

It takes weeks to recover from surgery

Fact:

Many cataract surgery patients enjoy 20/20 vision the very next day. For some, it could take a week to see well out of the affected eye. The healing process depends on the initial severity of the cataract and how much swelling is involved in recovery. Most patients can return to normal every-day activities shortly after surgery.

Myth:

Surgery can wait, I won’t go blind

Fact:

Cataracts generally progress slowly over time, but can progress to the point at which you can’t see. Since it happens over time you might not realize how cloudy your vision is becoming until you can no longer see. Most specialist agree that it is important to schedule your cataract surgery before your lenses get too hard because of the difficulty to break up the lens.

Myth:

Cataracts are inevitable

Fact:

According to the National Eye Institute, by the age of 80 about 50% of Americans have had cataract surgery or have a cataract. This means the other 50% are spared. Cataracts are often genetic, so knowing your family history can help in early cataract prevention and correction.