Restoring Vision | Removing Common Misconceptions Concerning Cataract Surgery
Posted on: 1 April 2015
Your vision is one of the senses you rely on the most and when there is a health issue that is threatening your sight, it can be a scary situation for sure. Because cataracts and cataract surgery is quite common—involving as many as half of those over the age of 80 in this country—a lot of people have something to say about the issue. However, what people have to say may not always be the most reliable form of information and you could find yourself facing a lot of myths and misinformation. Here are a few of those common misconceptions, and the truth you should know if you are dealing with cataracts yourself.
Misconception: Younger people cannot get cataracts.
Fact: It is true that cataracts are more common amongst the aging population as the problem is often associated with the aging of the eye. However, you do not have to be a specific age to see a cataract form on the lens of your eye. It is quite common for a younger person to miss indicators that they have cataracts, simply because they think they are not old enough to have them. The truth is cataracts can affect the eye from infancy all the way to adulthood.
Misconception: Cataracts can come back once they are removed.
Fact: The tiny ocular lens in the eye is where the cataracts form. During cataract surgery, this lens is removed and replaced with an artificial material that cannot support the growth of cataracts. Therefore, once you have surgery one time, it will not be necessary again. However, a condition referred to as posterior capsular opacification, can cause cloudy vision, but this is not the same condition as a cataract.
Misconception: Cataract surgery will make your vision worse.
Fact: The surgery that is performed to remove cataracts is one of the most common and effective in the US. It poses few risks in comparison to many other medical procedures. It is rare for cataract surgery to make your vision worse. However, there is a slightly heightened risk for retinal detachment after surgery.
By understanding the real facts about cataract surgery, you will feel much more comfortable about seeking help when you need it. It is always a good idea to familiarize yourself with some of the symptoms and risks of cataracts, such as poor night vision and cloudy vision, so you can seek help as soon as the problem becomes an issue.
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