Cataracts are a natural result of aging. As the eye’s lens, which sits behind the pupil, grows older, its cells die and accumulate, turning the lens yellowed and cloudy. The result is blurred vision and “fuzzy” images. Eye injuries, certain medications and diseases such as diabetes are also known to cause cataracts. In the early stages, stronger lighting and eyeglasses may lessen vision problems caused by cataracts. But at a certain point, cataract surgery—the most frequently performed operation in the United States—may be necessary to improve vision.

Five Common Cataract Misconceptions

  • FALSE – Eye drops can prevent or dissolve cataracts.

    FACT – The Food and Drug Administration has not approved any drops that cure or delay cataracts. Some such products claim they can prevent cataracts, but cataract formation is a natural part of the eye’s aging process. Other products claim they can “dissolve” cataracts. But since cataracts are not a “substance,” there is nothing for the drops to dissolve.

  • FALSE – Close-up tasks like reading or sewing make cataracts worse.

    FACT – Cataracts are not caused by how people use their eyes. However, cataracts likely become more noticeable during close work. One sign of a cataract is the need for more light to do the same activities well.

  • FALSE – Cataracts are reversible.

    FACT – The lens naturally clouds as it ages. This process is unavoidable. However, its progress can be slowed by quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet and wearing sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection.

  • FALSE – Cataract surgery is dangerous, and recovery takes months.

    FACT – Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most highly perfected surgical procedures in medicine, with a 95 percent success rate. Of course, as with any surgery, risks do exist and should be discussed with a doctor before the procedure. Patients will need to avoid bending or lifting anything heavy for up to three weeks after the procedure, as well as refrain from rubbing or pressing the eye. Normal activities may be resumed as early as the day after surgery, when the eye patch is removed. Cataract patients often notice vision improvement immediately following surgery, and others will notice more gradual improvement for a few months afterward.

  • FALSE – Cataracts “grow back.”

    FACT – Cataracts develop as the lens’s cells die and accumulate; they are not a “growth” that sits on top of the eye. Occasionally patients do develop a different, secondary cataract, though. When the membrane that holds the new lens implant becomes cloudy, vision can be compromised. But this can easily be treated with laser surgery, a painless, 15-minute procedure.

To find out more information about cataract surgery, contact the team at Magruder Laser Vision or meet with us to discuss your options, call 407-843-5665.


Magruder Laser Vision – Correcting Eyes and Changing Lives