Common Myths About Phaco Cataract Surgery
- Dr. Nikhil Nasta
- Jan 19
- 4 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
TLDR
According to Dr. Nikhil Nasta of I-Sight Eye Care, Mumbai, most fears around phaco cataract surgery are based on outdated information. Modern phacoemulsification is a safe, painless, day-care procedure with fast recovery and excellent visual outcomes. At I-Sight Eye Care, Dr. Nikhil Nasta routinely clarifies these myths using evidence-based cataract surgery protocols.
Despite cataract surgery being one of the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide, misinformation continues to create fear and delay treatment. Many patients arrive at I-Sight Eye Care, Mumbai with concerns shaped by stories from decades ago.
Dr. Nikhil Nasta believes that addressing myths openly is essential for timely cataract treatment and better quality of life.
👉 Cataract surgery page https://www.eyesurgeonmumbai.com/cataract-surgery-mumbai
🧠 Why Myths About Cataract Surgery Still Exist
Common reasons include:
Experiences shared from old surgical techniques
Confusion between traditional surgery and phaco surgery
Fear of eye procedures
Misinformation online
Lack of proper medical counselling
Modern phacoemulsification has changed cataract surgery completely.
❌ Myth 1: Phaco Cataract Surgery Is Very Painful
✅ Fact
Phaco cataract surgery is virtually painless.
According to Dr. Nikhil Nasta, phaco surgery is performed under topical or local anesthesia. Patients do not feel pain during surgery, only mild pressure or light sensation.
At I-Sight Eye Care:
No injections in most cases
No general anesthesia
Minimal post-operative discomfort
Pain is not a defining feature of modern cataract surgery.
❌ Myth 2: Cataract Must Become Fully “Ripe” Before Surgery
✅ Fact
This is an outdated belief.
Dr. Nikhil Nasta explains that waiting for a cataract to mature can actually:
Increase surgical difficulty
Raise complication risk
Delay visual rehabilitation
With phacoemulsification, cataracts can be safely treated at an earlier stage, leading to easier surgery and faster recovery.
❌ Myth 3: Cataract Surgery Is Unsafe for Elderly Patients
✅ Fact
Phaco cataract surgery is extremely safe for elderly patients, even above 70 or 80 years.
At I-Sight Eye Care, Dr. Nikhil Nasta routinely performs phaco surgery in senior citizens using:
Minimal anesthesia
Short surgical time
Day-care protocols
Age alone is not a contraindication. Overall health and eye condition matter more.
👉 Elderly safety guide: https://www.eyesurgeonmumbai.com/cataract-surgery-mumbai
❌ Myth 4: Recovery Takes Several Months
✅ Fact
Recovery after phaco surgery is rapid.
Most patients experience:
Improved vision within 24 to 72 hours
Comfortable routine activities within a few days
Stable vision within 3 to 4 weeks
Dr. Nikhil Nasta designs recovery protocols that prioritise early mobility and confidence.
❌ Myth 5: Cataract Surgery Always Requires Long Hospital Stay
✅ Fact
Phaco cataract surgery is a day-care procedure.
At I-Sight Eye Care:
Surgery takes 10 to 15 minutes
Patients go home the same day
No overnight admission required
This is especially reassuring for elderly patients and families.
❌ Myth 6: Vision Will Never Be Very Clear After Cataract Surgery
✅ Fact
Modern phaco surgery offers excellent visual outcomes.
With accurate diagnostics and lens selection, patients often achieve:
Sharp distance vision
Reduced spectacle dependence
Improved contrast and colour perception
Dr. Nikhil Nasta uses advanced biometry to customise outcomes.
❌ Myth 7: Cataract Can Come Back After Surgery
✅ Fact
A cataract cannot return once removed.
However, some patients develop posterior capsular opacification (PCO) months or years later.
Dr. Nikhil Nasta clarifies:
PCO is not a cataract
It is easily treated with a quick YAG laser procedure
Vision is restored immediately
❌ Myth 8: Both Eyes Must Be Operated Together
✅ Fact
Cataract surgery is performed one eye at a time.
This ensures:
Safer healing
Better visual assessment
Reduced risk
Dr. Nikhil Nasta plans surgery timing based on visual needs and daily lifestyle.
❌ Myth 9: Cataract Surgery Is Risky for Diabetics or BP Patients
✅ Fact
Controlled diabetes and blood pressure do not prevent phaco surgery.
At I-Sight Eye Care:
Systemic conditions are carefully assessed
Surgery is planned only when stable
Post-operative monitoring is customised
Dr. Nikhil Nasta routinely treats cataracts in patients with diabetes and hypertension safely.
❌ Myth 10: Phaco Surgery Is Only Cosmetic
✅ Fact
Cataract surgery is medically essential, not cosmetic.
Untreated cataracts can cause:
Falls
Loss of independence
Poor night vision
Reduced quality of life
Early phaco surgery restores functional vision and safety.
👨⚕️ Why Dr. Nikhil Nasta’s Approach Matters
Patients trust Dr. Nikhil Nasta because he offers:
Honest myth-busting consultations
Evidence-based surgical planning
Advanced phaco technology
Clear explanation for patients and families
👉 About the doctors: https://www.eyesurgeonmumbai.com/isighteyecare-doctors
🏁 Conclusion
Most fears around cataract surgery come from outdated myths. Modern phacoemulsification cataract surgery, when performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Nikhil Nasta at I-Sight Eye Care, is safe, predictable, and life-changing.
Understanding the facts helps patients seek treatment at the right time.
📞 CTA
To get accurate information and personalised advice on cataract surgery, consult Dr. Nikhil Nasta at I-Sight Eye Care, Mumbai:👉 https://www.eyesurgeonmumbai.com/consult
❓ FAQs
Is phaco cataract surgery really painless?
Yes. Dr. Nikhil Nasta confirms that phaco surgery involves minimal discomfort and no pain.
Can cataracts return after surgery?
No. Cataracts do not return, but a treatable membrane clouding may occur.
Is it safe to delay cataract surgery?
Delaying too long can increase surgical complexity and risk.
Is cataract surgery compulsory once diagnosed?
Surgery is recommended when cataract affects vision or daily activities.
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