About Cataract
A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens as it loses its transparency. It most often develops with age and is one of the leading causes of treatable vision loss worldwide.
As the lens clouds, vision gradually dulls; the good news is that cataract surgery is today a highly successful treatment that restores clear vision.
What Is Cataract?
Inside the eye there is a transparent lens that focuses incoming light onto the retina. Over time the proteins in this lens change, it loses transparency and the lens clouds. Like looking through a fogged window, the image becomes dull and faded.
A cataract cannot be reversed with glasses or drops; its definitive treatment is surgical. In surgery the clouded lens is removed and replaced with a permanent intraocular lens. For details of the process and lens options, see the cataract surgery and smart lens surgery pages.
Symptoms
Cataract progresses slowly; the most common symptoms are:
- Blurred vision: Dull, unclear vision as if looking through a fogged window.
- Glare/halos at night: Flare, halos and dazzle around headlights and lamps.
- Faded colours: Colours losing their former vividness, a yellowing sense.
- Frequent prescription changes: Prescriptions that never settle and change often.
- Decline in visual quality: Increasing difficulty with reading, driving and daily tasks.
Causes & Risk Factors
The main factors in the development of cataract:
- Older age: The most common cause — the natural age-related change of the lens.
- Diabetes: Diabetes can cause cataract to develop earlier.
- Sun (UV) exposure: Prolonged unprotected sun accelerates lens ageing.
- Smoking and alcohol: Increase risk by harming lens health.
- Long-term steroid use: Some medications can speed cataract development.
- Eye trauma and surgery: Previous eye injuries can predispose to cataract.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis and surgical planning are done with a detailed eye examination:
- Slit-lamp examination: The degree and type of lens clouding are examined under magnification.
- Visual acuity test: How much the cataract affects vision is determined.
- Intraocular pressure measurement: Assessment for accompanying glaucoma.
- Biometry: The power of the intraocular lens to be implanted is calculated with precise measurements.
- Retinal assessment: Posterior-segment problems that could affect vision are investigated.
Treatment & Smart Lenses
Cataract Surgery
The clouded lens is removed with modern, sutureless techniques and replaced with a permanent intraocular lens.
Biometry
Lens power is calculated with precise measurements.
Surgery
The clouded lens is removed through a small incision by phacoemulsification.
Lens
A foldable intraocular lens is implanted permanently.
Clear Vision Again
Smart Lens Options
Premium intraocular lenses can correct distance, intermediate and near vision, reducing dependence on glasses.
Multifocal
Distance, intermediate and near vision are supported by a single lens.
Toric
Astigmatism can also be corrected in the same operation.
Planning
The lens best suited to your lifestyle is chosen together.
Reduced Dependence on Glasses
Which smart lens is right for you?
The most suitable lens is chosen together according to your eye structure and daily-life expectations.