Cataract (commonly called Motiyabind in Hindi) is one of the most common eye conditions affecting people, especially with age. It occurs when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred or dim vision. Over time, this clouding interferes with daily activities such as reading, driving, or even recognizing faces.
The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery, where the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). But once diagnosed, patients often have doubts—“When should I get the surgery?” or “Is there a best time or season for cataract operation?”
A widespread belief in many parts of India, particularly in rural areas, is that cataract surgery should be avoided in summer and done only in winter. But is this true? Let’s break the myths and understand the facts.
When Should Cataract Surgery Be Done?
Cataract surgery is advised when the clouding of the lens significantly affects your lifestyle. If you struggle with everyday tasks such as reading, walking in low light, or driving, it’s time to consult an eye specialist.
In most cases:
- Surgery is first done on the eye with more advanced cataract.
- The second eye surgery, if needed, is usually scheduled after a gap of a few weeks.
- Sometimes, depending on the patient’s condition, the surgeon may operate on both eyes at the same time, but this is less common and depends on the doctor’s recommendation.
The key takeaway: There is no need to wait for a particular season. The right time for cataract surgery is when poor vision starts affecting your quality of life.
Myths About Cataract Surgery
- Myth: Cataracts can be treated with eye drops or medicines.
- Fact: Cataracts cannot be reversed or cured by eye drops or medicines. Surgery is the only treatment option.
- Myth: Summer is a bad time for cataract surgery.
- Fact: With modern medical technology, surgery can be safely performed in any season, whether summer, winter, or monsoon.
- Myth: Eyes take longer to heal in hot weather.
- Fact: Healing depends on the surgical procedure and aftercare, not the outside temperature. With advanced stitch-less and painless cataract surgery, recovery is quick and smooth.
These myths originated decades ago when sterile surgical setups and modern antibiotics were not available. In those times, infections and complications were more common, and people wrongly assumed weather was the cause. Today, with advanced medical facilities, these fears are outdated.
Does Season Affect Cataract Surgery?
The answer is NO. The success of cataract surgery is not dependent on whether it’s summer, winter, or monsoon.
Here’s why:
- Controlled Environment in Hospitals
Surgeries are performed in air-conditioned, temperature-regulated operation theatres. Doctors maintain sterile conditions, and humidity or outside weather does not impact the procedure or healing. - Post-Surgery Care
Patients are given prescribed eye drops to keep the eyes moist and prevent infection. They are also advised to wear protective dark glasses to shield eyes from dust, pollution, or harsh sunlight—regardless of the season. - Advanced Technology
Today’s cataract surgeries use advanced techniques such as phacoemulsification and femtosecond laser, which are stitch-less, painless, and require minimal recovery time. These methods ensure quick healing in every season.
So, whether it’s June or December, cataract surgery outcomes remain the same.
What Really Matters: Timing Based on Lifestyle
Instead of worrying about the season, patients should focus on their personal readiness and schedule.
For example:
- If you have upcoming travel plans, weddings, or important events, avoid scheduling surgery immediately before them.
- Since recovery usually takes about two weeks, plan your surgery when you can rest and follow your doctor’s instructions without interruption.
- If your vision is already severely compromised, do not delay surgery just to wait for a particular season.
Risks of Delaying Cataract Surgery
Waiting too long for surgery can cause the cataract to mature, making the lens harder and surgery more complicated. In advanced cases, untreated cataracts can even lead to complete blindness. Hence, once your ophthalmologist advises surgery, it is best to get it done without delay.
Final Verdict: Best Time for Cataract Surgery
There is no best season for cataract or motiyabind surgery. The success of surgery and the healing process are independent of weather conditions.
- Cataract surgery can be done safely in all seasons—summer, winter, or rainy.
- What matters most is the impact on your vision, your daily lifestyle, and your doctor’s recommendation.
- The sooner you undergo the surgery after diagnosis, the better your chances of restoring clear vision and preventing blindness.
Conclusion
Don’t let myths about summer or winter cataract surgeries delay your treatment. With modern medical facilities, cataract surgery is a safe, painless, and quick procedure available throughout the year.
The best time to undergo cataract surgery is when your eye specialist advises it—not based on seasons but on your eye condition and lifestyle needs.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cataracts, consult an experienced ophthalmologist and schedule your surgery at the earliest. Clear vision and a better quality of life are just a step away.