Cataracts are one of the most common vision problems worldwide. However, several misconceptions persist regarding their causes, symptoms, and surgical treatments. These myths can lead to confusion and delay necessary medical care.
To help you understand the facts, here is a detailed look at the most common myths about cataracts debunked by our clinical experts.
Myth 1: Eye drops can dissolve cataracts.
The Fact: There is no scientific evidence that eye drops, medications, or lifestyle changes can dissolve or reverse cataracts. The cloudiness is caused by protein clumping within the natural lens. The only effective treatment is a surgical procedure to replace the cloudy lens with a clear artificial one (IOL).
Myth 2: You must wait until the cataract is "mature" to have surgery.
The Fact: In the past, older surgical techniques required cataracts to harden before extraction. With modern phacoemulsification technology, surgery is performed as soon as the cataract begins to interfere with your daily activities. In fact, delaying surgery can make the cataract harder and more difficult to remove, increasing surgical risks.
Myth 3: Cataract surgery requires stitches and patches.
The Fact: Suman Eye Clinic uses micro-incision cataract surgery (MICS), making the procedure stitchless and sutureless. The tiny self-healing entry (1.8 to 2.2 mm) closes naturally. You wear a clear protective shield or sunglasses for the first few days to prevent accidental contact, but no heavy patches are required.
Myth 4: Cataracts can grow back after surgery.
The Fact: Once your natural lens is replaced with an artificial one, a cataract cannot reform. However, some patients can develop a mild clouding of the capsule membrane that holds the new lens. This is called a "secondary cataract" (Posterior Capsule Opacification) and is easily cleared in 2 minutes using a painless YAG laser in our clinic.
Myth 5: Only elderly people get cataracts.
The Fact: While age-related cataracts are the most common form, cataracts can develop in younger individuals due to chronic conditions like diabetes, eye injuries, radiation exposure, or long-term steroid use. Some infants are also born with cataracts (congenital cataracts).