Having cataracts is a common condition that can affect almost anyone. For most cases, a cataract surgery is not required. As long as you don’t leave it untreated, you won’t go blind from this eye condition.
At its early stages, the symptoms of cataract can be reduced by using brighter lighting, anti-glare sunglasses, or magnifying lens. However, when vision loss has reached the point where it interferes with your daily activities, the cataract needs to be surgically removed. This is when you need to undergo cataract surgery. In Orange County and Los Angeles, the number of people with eye problems has significantly increased. However, some people are afraid to undergo surgery because of the myths and misconceptions that surround it.
Cataract Surgery: Top 7 Myths and Misconceptions About the Condition and Its Treatment
Like most medical procedures in Orange County and Los Angeles, cataract surgery is surrounded by a lot of misconceptions. Add the myths that plague the eye condition, and it’s no wonder that a lot of patients are reluctant to undergo the operation. Here are some of the most common misconceptions about cataract and the surgery.
Myth #1: Cataract is reversible.
Fact: Cataract is not reversible.
It’s a condition that naturally develops due to age-associated changes in your eyes. Non-surgical treatments mostly work to slow down the deterioration process.
Myth #2: Eye drops can fix cataracts.
Fact: Eye drops cannot fix cataracts.
There are currently no eye drops that can fix or dissolve cataracts. More importantly, since it’s a naturally occurring condition that comes with age, there’s also no way to prevent them completely. If you want your cataracts gone, you’ll have to undergo cataract surgery.
Myth #3: Doing activities that required looking at objects at a close distance like sewing and reading worsens cataracts.
Fact: Activities that require close scrutiny do not make cataracts worse.
As mentioned in Myth #1, cataract is an age-related condition. You won’t develop the condition—or make it worse if you already have it—if you engage in activities that require close visual examination frequently.
Myth #4: Cataract surgery is dangerous.
Fact: Cataract surgery is a low-risk procedure.
While the procedure is not without risks, cataract surgery is considered as one of the safest surgical procedures in the world.
Myth #5: Cataract surgery has an extended recovery period
Fact: Patients can resume their regular activities the day after their operation.
If you decide to get cataract surgery, in Los Angeles, for instance, know that you don’t have to set aside a lot of time for recovery. You can get back to work the day after your operation. Just don’t press or rub your eyes and engage in any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for the next few weeks.
Myth #6: Most cataracts grow back post-surgery.
Fact: Patients can develop a secondary cataract post-surgery.
Surgically-removed cataracts never grow back. But, there are rare instances when a secondary cataract can develop in or near its place.
Myth #7: Only the elderly can develop cataracts.
Fact: Everyone can develop cataract; the elderly is just the most vulnerable age group.
Cataracts occur in all age groups—even infants or those under 40 sometimes have them. They are just most common on older people since they’re an age-associated condition.
Don’t let these misconceptions hold you back from getting cataract surgery.
Looking for Cataract Surgery in Orange County and Los Angeles?
Excel Laser Vision Institute has you covered! As the leading provider of laser eye surgery in Los Angeles, Orange County, and all of Southern California, we have carried out safe and successful operations for over two decades. Visit one of our clinics to learn more about us and our services.
Never take eye problems lightly. Even if you don’t have any of the tell-tale signs of cataract (clouded or dim vision, sensitivity to light, seeing “halos” around lights, etc.), it is still better to consult an expert to make sure you’re not coming down with anything serious. Remember, when it comes to your eye care needs, prevention is always better than cure!
