Top 10 Myths About Cataract Surgery — Busted by Dr. Jaspreet Aggarwal
Cataract surgery is one of the most frequently performed and safest eye procedures worldwide. Yet, many patients still delay treatment due to common myths and fears. Misunderstandings about surgery, recovery, and costs often prevent people from taking the necessary steps to restore their vision.
At Sri Onkar Eye & ENT Care Centre, Ambala, Dr. Jaspreet Aggarwal, an expert ophthalmologist with over 16 years of experience, shares the truth behind these misconceptions. His goal is to help people understand that cataract surgery today is modern, painless, and life-changing.
Let’s look at the top 10 myths about cataract surgery and uncover the real facts you need to know.
1. Myth: Cataracts Can Be Treated with Medicines or Eye Drops
Fact: No medicine, supplement, or eye drop can dissolve or remove a cataract. Cataract formation is a natural aging process where the lens becomes cloudy. The only permanent and effective treatment is surgical removal of the cloudy lens, replaced with a clear intraocular lens (IOL). Modern technology makes this procedure quick and highly successful.
2. Myth: Cataract Surgery Is Painful
Fact: This is one of the biggest misconceptions. Modern cataract surgery is completely painless. Using advanced phacoemulsification or bladeless laser technology, the surgeon operates under local anesthesia. Patients are awake but feel no pain—only slight pressure or light sensation. Recovery is smooth and comfortable.
3. Myth: You Must Wait Until the Cataract Matures
Fact: In earlier days, doctors advised waiting for the cataract to “mature.” But with today’s advanced methods, it’s best to operate as soon as vision starts affecting your routine activities. Delaying surgery can make the cataract harder, increasing surgery complexity and recovery time.
4. Myth: Cataracts Can Reoccur After Surgery
Fact: Once a cataract is removed, it cannot grow back. However, a thin layer behind the implanted lens (posterior capsule) can become cloudy months or years later—a condition called posterior capsular opacification (PCO). This can be easily treated with a quick, painless YAG laser procedure, restoring vision instantly without surgery.
5. Myth: Cataract Surgery Takes a Long Time to Heal
Fact: Most patients notice clearer vision within 24 to 48 hours. With modern laser-assisted or micro-incision techniques, recovery is fast, and you can resume normal activities in just a few days. At Sri Onkar Eye & ENT Care Centre, most patients return to daily life with better vision within a week.
6. Myth: Cataract Surgery Is Risky for Elderly People
Fact: Cataract surgery is one of the safest procedures for people of all ages, including seniors. In fact, older adults benefit the most because cataract removal improves independence, mobility, and quality of life. Dr. Jaspreet Aggarwal uses advanced safety protocols, ensuring minimal risk and excellent results for all patients.
7. Myth: Both Eyes Are Operated on the Same Day
Fact: Generally, doctors perform cataract surgery on one eye at a time. After the first eye heals, usually within a few days or weeks, the second eye is operated on. This approach ensures accurate visual results and a safer healing process.
8. Myth: You’ll Always Need Glasses After Surgery
Fact: With the availability of premium intraocular lenses (IOLs) such as multifocal, toric, or trifocal lenses, many patients enjoy clear vision at all distances without glasses. Dr. Jaspreet customizes lens selection based on your lifestyle, occupation, and vision needs to give the best outcome.
9. Myth: Laser Cataract Surgery Is Unsafe
Fact: Laser-assisted cataract surgery is one of the most precise and advanced surgical options available today. It minimizes human error, enhances accuracy, and results in faster recovery. At Sri Onkar Eye & ENT Care Centre, laser technology is combined with expert surgical skill to ensure the safest experience possible.
10. Myth: Cataract Surgery Is Too Expensive
Fact: Many patients fear surgery costs, but Sri Onkar Eye & ENT Care Centre, Ambala, offers affordable cataract packages without compromising quality. From standard lenses to advanced premium IOLs, the hospital provides cost-effective options that fit different budgets while ensuring top-quality care.
Expert Insight: Why Choose Dr. Jaspreet Aggarwal
With over 16 years of experience, Dr. Jaspreet Aggarwal is one of Ambala’s most trusted cataract surgeons. His patient-first approach ensures comfort, safety, and satisfaction. The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art phaco and laser machines, maintaining strict hygiene and safety protocols. Each patient receives a personalized care plan—from diagnosis to post-operative follow-up.