Cataract Treatment

Cataracts are very common, especially as people age. In fact, untreated cataracts are the leading cause of reversible blindness worldwide. Fortunately, this condition is easy to treat with a simple surgical procedure, making vision restoration successful in most cases.

• Older adults - aging is the most common cause.  
• Genetic factors - rare cases can occur in infants or children due to enzyme or genetic disorders.  
• Eye trauma or inflammation inside the eye.  
• Prolonged UV exposure or radiation.  
• Systemic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.  
• Lifestyle factors - smoking, alcohol use, and obesity.  
• Medications - long-term use of steroids, statins, or phenothiazines.

Cataracts cause gradual vision loss that can interfere with daily tasks like reading, driving, or recognizing faces. If left untreated, cataracts can lead to complete blindness. 

Nuclear Sclerotic Cataract  

This type develops slowly and causes age-related clouding of the lens nucleus. At first, it may even improve reading vision temporarily.  

Cortical Cataract  

Opacities form around the outer edge of the lens. This type causes glare, light scatter, and poor depth perception. It is common in people with diabetes.  

Posterior Subcapsular Cataract  

This type affects the back of the lens. It progresses rapidly, impacts near vision, and causes glare or halos. It is often seen in people with diabetes or those who use steroids. 

• Visual Acuity Test - This checks clarity of sight at various distances.  
• Dilated Eye Exam - This enlarges the pupils to examine the retina and optic nerve.  
• Slit Lamp Examination - This gives a detailed view of eye structures.  
• IOL Master - This measures the eye length, corneal curve, and depth to choose the right intraocular lens.  
• Additional tests - These may check glare sensitivity or color vision if needed. 
• OCT - This gives detailed idea about the macula

Phacoemulsification (Phaco)  

This modern, stitch-less surgery uses ultrasound to remove the lens, followed by implantation of a foldable IOL. Recovery is quick and downtime is minimal.  

Micro Incision Cataract Surgery (MICS)  

This traditional technique uses a slightly larger incision (5 to 6 mm) with a self-sealing wound. No stitches are required. 

Monofocal IOLs  

These provide clear vision at one fixed distance, usually far. Patients will still need reading glasses.  

Advanced focal lens

gives clear distance and intermediate vision

Trifocal lens

This give clear distance, intermediate & near vision 

Multifocal IOLs  

These allow for both near and distance vision. They may reduce the need for glasses but can cause glare or halos at night.  

Toric IOLs  

These correct both cataracts and astigmatism. The lens is aligned precisely during surgery for the best results.  

EDOF (Extended Depth of Focus) IOLs  

These provide continuous vision over a range of distances and with minimal glare. 

Before Surgery:  

• Measurements and tests help determine the right lens. You may need to stop taking certain medications temporarily.  
• Dileted examination for cataract, retina evaluation & biometry counceling to decide type of lens.

During Surgery:  

• Local anesthesia is used. A tiny incision is made, the cloudy lens is removed, and a new IOL is implanted. The procedure is usually painless and takes about 15 to 20 minutes.  

After Surgery:  

• You may feel mild discomfort, sensitivity to light, or watery eyes.  
• Eye drops will be prescribed to help healing and prevent infection.  
• Avoid rubbing your eye, lifting heavy objects, or bending forward for a few days.  
• Vision improves gradually; most patients recover within 2 weeks. 

Cataract surgery is generally safe. However, very very rare complications can include:  

• Infection, bleeding, or inflammation.  
• Increased eye pressure or retinal detachment.  
• Vision issues like double vision or glare.  
• With prompt treatment, most issues can be resolved without causing long-term damage. 

• Wear UV-protective sunglasses outdoors.  
• Quit smoking.  
• Eat a diet rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables.  
• Manage diabetes, blood pressure, and other health conditions.  
• Maintain a healthy weight and limit alcohol intake.