What Is a Cataract?
A cataract develops when the eye’s natural lens loses its transparency and can no longer transmit light effectively. This clouding of the lens reduces visual clarity, alters color perception, and causes significant difficulties with night vision. Although the progression of cataracts varies from person to person, surgical treatment is the definitive solution.
Thanks to modern surgical techniques, cataract operations are fast, safe, and painless. By replacing the cloudy lens with an artificial intraocular lens, vision can be restored—and in many cases, dependence on glasses can be reduced.
Causes of Cataract
Cataracts can develop due to multiple factors. While age-related degeneration is the most common cause, excessive exposure to sunlight, toxic chemicals, trauma, diabetes, metabolic disorders, and certain medications can also damage the lens structure. Some cataract types may require specialized surgical approaches.
Main Risk Factors
- Advanced age
- Prolonged exposure to UV light
- Diabetes and metabolic diseases
- SLong-term steroid use
Other Contributing Factors
- Eye trauma
- Exposure to toxic chemicals
- Genetic predisposition
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
Cataract Symptoms
As cataracts progress, visual quality deteriorates and daily activities become increasingly difficult. Common symptoms include:
- Decreased vision and blurred images
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Double vision
- Yellowed or faded color perception
- Difficulty reading
- Newly developed problems with distance vision
How Is Cataract Surgery Performed?
Cataract surgery is performed in an operating room under a surgical microscope. Depending on the patient’s condition, anesthesia is administered using topical eye drops or mild sedation. With the phacoemulsification technique, the cloudy lens is fragmented using ultrasonic energy and removed through a small incision. A clear intraocular lens is then implanted in its place. The procedure typically takes 10–30 minutes, depending on cataract density and lens type.
Preoperative Preparation
Sterile conditions are ensured, anesthetic drops are applied, and the eyelids are gently stabilized with a special instrument.
Lens Removal – Phacoemulsification
A small incision is made, the lens capsule is opened, and the cataract is broken down and removed using ultrasound energy.
Intraocular Lens Implantation
A foldable intraocular lens is placed inside the lens capsule. In most cases, stitches are not required.
Clear vision and rapid recovery
Which Intraocular Lens Is Right for You?
Monofocal, toric, or trifocal lens options are evaluated based on your lifestyle needs and the presence of astigmatism.
Clear Vision
Reduces the need for separate glasses for near and distance vision.
- Comfortable Night Driving
- Easier Reading
Advanced Technology
Personalized treatment with femtosecond-assisted techniques and premium lens options.
- Toric lenses for astigmatism
- Blue light–filtering lenses
Improved Quality of Life
Enhanced color perception and contrast sensitivity, easier performance of daily activities.
- More efficient visual performance
- Safer mobility
Recovery After Cataract Surgery
Hospitalization is not required after surgery. Patients are discharged after a short rest period, and a same-day follow-up is scheduled. In the first few days, lights may appear brighter and colors more vivid—this is normal.
- Mild blurred vision may persist for several days; maximum visual sharpness typically develops within 4–8 weeks
- Mild redness, itching, or tearing during the first week is normal; increasing pain requires medical evaluation
- Prescribed eye drops (antibiotics and steroids) must be used regularly
- Avoid dusty environments, heavy exercise, and rubbing the eyes
The recovery process is accelerated by wearing the protective eyewear recommended by your doctor and attending regular follow-up visits.