Cataract Surgery: Top 10 Myths from 1 to 10*. Third in a Series of Three

7. It takes weeks to see well after cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is among the most advanced surgeries offered today. “Many patients have 20/20 visual acuity the next day, others may take a week or so to see well from the operated eye,” says David Sachs, MD, Corneal and Cataract surgeon.

8. There is nothing that can be done to prevent cataracts

It is true that cataracts form as a natural part of the aging process. However, protecting your eyes from constant UV exposure from the sun can slow down the development of cataracts. So pick up those sunglasses and wear them anytime you are outdoors.

9. Surgery can wait; My vision will never get too bad

As we reviewed in question 8, you can slow down the progression of cataracts but you cannot stop it. As the lens in the eye becomes more and more unclear, and harder and harder, it will make an individual’s vision impaired. Most surgeons prefer to remove the cataract before it gets this to point where the cataract is extremely hard.

10. Cataracts are unavoidable

A recent study revealed that by age 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery, according to the National Eye Institute. This leaves a good number of Americans in this age group without a cataract. However, if a person does need cataract surgery, there isn’t an age limit. The patient does need to be in good general health and the benefits do need to outweigh the risks in having surgery at an older age.

*Based on an AARP-Alcon survey in 2013

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