3 Common Myths About Modern Cataract Surgery

3 Common Myths About Modern Cataract Surgery

Published by Lance Kugler, MD on October 16, 2023

Cataracts are among the leading causes of blindness in adults in the United States, but cataract surgery happens to be one of the most common and successful vision-saving procedures performed today. However, there are still some misconceptions and myths that may prevent people from seeking prompt treatment for cataract. 

If you’re getting older and your vision isn’t what it used to be, you may be developing cataracts. Learn the myths and facts about cataract surgery.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should talk to your doctor about whether you need cataract surgery:

• Blurred vision
• Difficulty seeing at night or in low light
• Frequent changes in prescription glasses or contact lenses
• Glare from headlights or other bright lights
• Seeing double or multiple images
• Faded colors

Here are three common myths about modern cataract surgery and the real facts that should put your mind at ease.

Myth 1: Cataract surgery is painful and risky.

Fact: Modern cataract surgery we perform at Kugler Vision is a minimally invasive and safe procedure with a high success rate. Your surgeon uses a laser to make a tiny opening in the eye and uses a special device to break up and remove the cloudy lens.

Then, an artificial, biocompatible lens is inserted to replace the natural one. The opening is so small that it heals on its own without stitches. Most patients experience little or no discomfort during or after the surgery, and the risk of complications is extremely low.

Myth 2: Cataract surgery can be postponed indefinitely.

Fact: Cataracts are a progressive condition that worsen over time. If left untreated, they can cause severe vision loss and even blindness. The longer you wait, the more difficult the surgery may become and the higher the risk of complications. Therefore, it is advisable to have cataract surgery as soon as your doctor recommends it and before your vision affects your daily activities and quality of life.

Here are some things you should know about modern cataract surgery:

• It is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed on an outpatient basis.
• The surgery takes about 15-20 minutes per eye.
• Most patients are able to go home the day of surgery.
• Vision improvement is typically immediate and continues to improve over the next few weeks.
• The success rate of cataract surgery is over 98 percent.

Myth 3: Cataract surgery will restore your vision to 20/20.

Fact: Cataract surgery can improve your vision significantly by removing the cloudiness that affects your sight. However, it cannot correct other vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism or presbyopia. The good news is that there are different types of artificial lenses available that can address some of these issues and reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contacts for most daily activities. These lenses can be placed immediately after cataract removal in one procedure.

If you are considering cataract surgery, talk to Kugler Vision about the risks and benefits of the procedure. Your surgeon can help you determine if cataract surgery is right for you, whether you could benefit from Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL) and answer any questions you have.

As modern vision correction specialists, we at Kugler Vision are committed to serving our patients’ needs on the journey to a life free from visual barriers. Take the first step with a thorough eye analysis and find out if you qualify for Modern LASIK or one of our 6 other advanced vision correction treatments. Book online at LASIKOmaha.com.

Lance Kugler, MD

Lance Kugler, MD, is a specialist in LASIK and vision correction surgery and CEO of Kugler Vision. A proud Omaha native, he is passionate about improving lives through clear vision. Dr. Kugler serves on several national boards, and his practice is recognized internationally as a center of excellence. Dr. Kugler is one of the original founders of the Refractive Surgery Alliance, an international organization comprised of over 350 of the world’s leading vision correction surgeons; he also served as its first president. In 2019, Dr. Kugler was selected as a TEDx speaker, and delivered a talk in Omaha about the worldwide epidemic of nearsightedness and refractive solutions. Dr. Kugler is an Associate Professor of Refractive Surgery at the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Truhlsen Eye Institute, has been published in many medical journals, and participates in numerous clinical studies to advance the field of vision correction surgery. Additionally, Dr. Kugler is proud to be a Board Certified Fellow of the World College of Refractive Surgery & Visual Sciences. Dr. Kugler and his wife are proud parents to five active kids. When he has a spare moment, he enjoys skiing, tennis, travel, and fine coffee.