Cataract is a leading cause of age-related preventable blindness worldwide

Cataract is a leading cause of age-related preventable blindness worldwide

 

Did you know that an estimated 20 lakh new cataract cases are seen in India every year and that cataract blindness can be completely avoided?

Cataract is a commonly occurring vision problem that develops as you grow older, due to clouding of the eye’s natural crystalline lens caused by a gradual build-up of proteins. 80% of the blindness in India is due to cataract. Most people develop cataracts after the age of 60, in one or both eyes. Cataract symptoms include hazy, blurred or double vision, sensitivity to light and glare, difficulty seeing in poor lighting conditions, difficulty in distinguishing changes in contrast, and fading of colours. Without cataract treatment, your vision will continue to deteriorate and affect daily activities, such as your ability to read and drive. An ophthalmologist can provide you with an accurate cataract diagnosis and advice you on cataract treatment options.

Cataract is curable. Don’t let cataract symptoms affect your day-to-day living and quality of life.

Cataract eye surgery is one of the most commonly performed procedures worldwide, where the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens for clear vision. Advances in cataract surgery techniques have made this procedure efficient and safe, with more predictable refractive outcomes, minor or very rare cataract complications, and quicker cataract surgery recovery time. Patients who visit Narayana Nethralaya for cataract surgery are provided with an individualized treatment plan by our cataract surgeons based on their age, the severity of cataract vision loss, and daily activities to obtain the best vision possible post-cataract surgery.

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Narayana Nethralaya is a one-stop solution for cataract surgery with expert cataract diagnosis, cataract treatment and cataract post-surgery care

Detailed preoperative cataract assessment and patient counseling, advanced diagnostic equipment, state-of-the-art operation theatre complex, world-renowned cataract surgeons, and meticulous cataract post-surgery care makes Narayana Nethralaya the best choice for Cataract Surgery. Our highly specialized cataract surgeons are recognized as leading practitioners in their field and are experienced in handling cataract cases with varying complications such as diabetes, glaucoma, hypertension, age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, corneal scars, trauma, childhood cataract, etc. NN is one of the preferred choices for complicated cataract surgeries, especially post traumatic and high-risk referral patients, and those who may have previously undergone cataract removal surgery.

Cataract treatment for people with special needs

Narayana Nethralaya provides specialized cataract diagnosis, cataract treatment, and surgical care for disabled patients, and those with special needs such as learning disabilities.

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Cataract treatment for International Patients

Advanced quality care at great affordability and a smooth and hassle-free patient process have made Narayana Nethralaya the preferred choice for international cataract patients from across the globe, both from developed and developing countries.

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Our patient care philosophy

At Narayana Nethralaya, “Quality of Care” and “Patient Safety” is our priority.  Concern for our patients’ wellbeing is at the core of what we do, and what drives us.  All 4 units of Narayana Nethralaya are NABH Accredited – the highest national recognition for quality in patient care and safety. Our cataract surgeons can recognize when cataract surgery is necessary and will help patients make an informed treatment choice on the type of cataract surgery and type of cataract lens (cataract intraocular lens) that is best suited for their lifestyle. Narayana Nethralaya has an exclusive cataract counseling team to address any doubts or questions that people may have about cataract treatment options, cataract lens, cataract surgery types, cataract surgery procedure, preoperative testing for cataract surgery, and cataract surgery recovery.

Cataract surgery procedure

At Narayana Nethralaya cataract patients can avail the most cutting edge technology in the field of cataract laser surgery – Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery on the LenSx platform – where a large part of the cataract removal is automated with a computer-controlled laser instead of hand-held instruments. This reduces the possibility of human error or complications during the cataract procedure and increases the levels of safety, precision, and predictability for early healing, better vision outcomes, and patient safety. We offer a wide range of intraocular lens for cataract surgery from Monofocal to Multifocal and Premium Toric IOLs, to cater to your vision requirement and budget.

Phacoemulsification

Phacoemulsification – is a sutureless type of cataract surgery wherein a machine is used to emulsify (break down and remove) the cataract with a special probe that utilizes ultrasound energy. As the entire cataract is emulsified in situ, a smaller incision of 2.4-2.8 mm is sufficient for this cataract procedure. A smaller incision size results in lesser astigmatism and thus better quality of vision for the patient. A foldable intraocular lens is implanted after the emulsification of the nucleus. This surgery is performed under topical anesthesia as a daycare procedure following which the patient is free to go home. This is a painless and modern cataract surgery technique that offers quick healing and cataract surgery recovery.

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MICS (Micro Incision Cataract Surgery)

MICS (Micro Incision Cataract Surgery) – In this type of advanced cataract surgery, the standard phacoemulsification is performed with an incision size ranging between 2.2-2.4 mm. The smaller incision size in this procedure as compared to the standard phacoemulsification has the benefit of faster healing and induces lesser astigmatism.

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Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS)

Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) – is an innovative bladeless surgical option for cataract In this type of cataract surgery a laser machine is used first to make the incisions, create an opening in the lens capsule and liquefy the nucleus. The patient is then shifted to the operating room and the cataract surgery is completed. The initial use of laser to make the incisions has the advantage of more precise incisions as compared to manual incisions. Also, as the cataract is already softened by the laser, lesser energy is used during the actual phacoemulsification surgery. This high-end procedure is the latest advancement in the field of cataract surgery and benefits the patients in terms of lesser collateral damage to surrounding tissues, faster healing and improved visual outcomes.

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Cataract Surgery Lens Options

Monofocal Lens

With traditional cataract surgery, you will receive a standard monofocal lens that will provide good distance vision, but you will still need glasses for close and possibly for intermediate vision.

Astigmatism-Correcting Lens

If you have astigmatism and choose cataract surgery with an astigmatism-correcting monofocal  lens, you will eliminate both cataracts and astigmatism, but you will still need glasses for improved vision.

Multifocal/Accommodative Lens

With cataract surgery, a multifocal/accommodative lens can improve near, far, and intermediate vision, allowing most patients to function with little need for glasses.

Extended depth of focus IOLs

EDOFs (Extended depth of focus IOLs ) are the Alcon Vivity IOL, Tecnis Eyhance IOL, Zeiss AT LARA. These IOLs are slightly different from Trifocal IOLs in the context that while trifocals aim at correcting near, intermediate and distance vision, the EDOFs (Extended depth of focus IOLs) primarily are designed to correct the distance and intermediate vision.

Cataract Consultation – Patient Process Flow

Cataract Consultation - Patient Process Flow

If you are over the age of 50 and your vision has been changing, it is a good time to schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist to get your eyes checked for cataract. You can come prepared for your cataract consultation by making a list of all the symptoms you are experiencing and a list of all the medications you are currently taking.

The cataract doctors at Narayana Nethralaya will evaluate the health of your eyes and assess your need for cataract surgery. Your initial consultation will take approximately 2 hours if you do not require cross-consultation and up to 4 hours if you require cross-consultation. During your cataract consultation, our doctors will determine the best course of action for your vision needs, go over the risks and benefits of cataract surgery, and help you choose the cataract procedure and lens that is suitable for your lifestyle, visual needs, and budget. We suggest you bring a family member or friend with you to help you with your decision making.

This is what you can expect when you come to Narayana Nethralaya for your Cataract Consultation:
  • You will be greeted by our staff at the reception who will guide you through the registration process, after which you will pay the consultation fee.
  • Your vision and eye pressure will then be evaluated by the patient care coordinator on the AR (Automated Refractor) and NCT (Non-Contact Tonometer) machine. The automated refractor is a computerized machine that provides a measurement of a person’s refractive error and calculates the vision correction they require (prescription for glasses or contact lenses). The NCT or “air puff test” measures the pressure inside your eye and gives your intraocular pressure (IOP) reading.
  • You will next meet the optometrist who will check your vision. You will be asked to look through a device to read letters or recognize symbols on a wall chart. An assortment of lenses with differing strength will be used to determine the type of corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses that can help your eyes focus better for clearer vision. The optometrist will also take down your general medical history such as whether you suffer from diabetes or hypertension.
  • You will then meet the Cataract doctor and undergo a complete and detailed clinical evaluation, which could include a number of tests that will help with your cataract diagnosis. If your NCT results indicate high intraocular pressure (IOP), the cataract doctor may refer you to the Glaucoma doctor for an assessment. If other abnormalities are noticed during your eye exam, the Cataract doctor may refer you to the Retina doctor or the Cornea doctor for additional assessment.
  • If you are diagnosed with cataract and the doctor feels that you do not need surgery immediately, you will be asked to come back for a review/check-up at a later date. You can schedule your next appointment and purchase the prescribed medication at the pharmacy. It is important to meet the doctor for periodic follow-up exams so that the progress of cataract and changes to your vision can be tracked.
  • If the doctor feels that your cataract has advanced to a stage where you cannot see well enough to perform normal daily activities, you will be advised to undergo cataract surgery immediately.
  • Our trained counselors will then meet you for general counseling.
  • Next, you will undergo pre-operative investigations and lab tests to identify any pertinent risk factors and ensure that you are physically healthy enough to have the surgery.
  • Mandatory preoperative investigations for cataract surgery include A-scan, Specular Microscopy, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), and Pentacam, which are recommended based on the type of cataract you have, and the complexity of your eye in terms of myopia, hypermetropia, and cornea-related changes.
  • Mandatory lab tests include blood and urine workup, ECG, and serology. The validity of the lab test results is 30 days, within which the cataract procedure should be performed.
  • Biometry tests will be done to measure the size and shape of your eye. These pre-operative measurements are important as they will help with proper selection of the intraocular lens (artificial lens) which will be implanted in your eye after the cataract is removed. If you wear contact lenses, be sure to mention this when you make an appointment as contact lenses (both soft and rigid) should be removed for 4-5 days prior to taking measurements.
  • You will then meet a general physician who will evaluate you for systemic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid, autoimmune diseases, or other underlying health problems that can affect the outcome of your cataract surgery.
  • You will also meet a retina specialist who will dilate your eyes to examine your retina thoroughly to rule out any complications.
  • If you are approved for surgery, you will then meet the counselors who will extensively explain the entire cataract treatment options and cataract surgery procedure. They will also help you determine the type and power of the cataract intraocular lens (artificial lens) you need for good visual outcome post-cataract surgery. This will be based on your age, the severity of cataract vision loss, your budget, daily activities, and the type of vision (near or distance focus) you require to complete those activities. If you have pre-existing conditions such as astigmatism, glaucoma, macular degeneration, or corneal disease which affects your vision, the counselors may suggest a specific type of replacement lens that could treat both the cataract and your pre-existing condition.
  • Finally, the counselors will schedule the date for your cataract surgery. They will also advise you on the pre-operative cataract medications to be taken.
  • If you have health insurance for cataract surgery you can go to the hospital insurance helpdesk and fill out the necessary insurance preauthorization forms. After this, you can visit the pharmacy to purchase the prescribed pre-operative medications before going home.
  • If you do not have health insurance for cataract surgery you can visit the pharmacy and purchase the prescribed pre-operative medications before going home.

At Narayana Nethralaya, we understand that your decision to undergo cataract surgery requires careful consideration and planning. If you have any questions about your cataract consultation or cataract surgery, please feel free to reach out to us at 080-66121639 between 9 AM – 5 PM.

Cataract Brochure

FAQ

Pre Operative Instructions for Cataract Surgery FAQs

What should I do prior to the day of cataract surgery?

It is important for you to follow all the cataract surgery pre op instructions given to you by your doctor. Your surgeon may advise you not to drink alcohol for 12 hours before the cataract eye surgery. If you are on other medications, your doctor may ask you to stop taking them or alter the timing of the medications prior to the cataract surgery procedure. You may be instructed to use cataract surgery pre op medications or pre cataract surgery eye drops to prevent infection. A good night’s rest is important before the day of the cataract operation.

Pre cataract surgery eye drops - Should I apply eye drops on the day of cataract surgery?

Yes. Ensure that eye drops are applied as directed. Apply only one drop at a time to the suggested eye and give a gap of at least 15 minutes between drops. Note that your vision will be blurred after you apply Tropicacyl Plus eye drops on the day of cataract surgery procedure. Kindly take care accordingly.

Should I carry the pre cataract surgery eye drops with me to the hospital?

Yes. Bring the medicines and pre cataract surgery eye drops with you to the hospital on the day of cataract surgery.

Can I take my regular medication on the day of cataract surgery?

If you are on medication for systemic illness, please continue your regular medication, unless specifically instructed otherwise by your ophthalmologist.

Can I shave on the day of cataract surgery?

Yes. You can shave on the day of cataract removal surgery.

Can I bring an attendant on the day of cataract surgery?

Yes. You can bring 1 attendant over the age of 18 years with you on the day of the cataract eye surgery. Children and infants are not allowed.

Why do I need the eye drops before cataract surgery?

Starting the eye drops before cataract removal gives your eye a better chance to heal from the inflammation caused by the cataract extraction and to fight infection.

Can I have breakfast on the day of cataract surgery?

Yes. You should have breakfast (normal diet) before coming for the cataract procedure.

Can I wash my hair on the day of cataract surgery?

Yes. Please wash your hair on the day of cataract surgery as you will not be able to do so for 1 week after the cataract surgery. However, oil should not be applied to your hair.

What clothes should I wear on the day of cataract surgery?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing, preferably a short sleeve shirt or blouse that button or zip up the front,and comfortable shoes when you come for cataract surgery.

FAQ

Post Operative Instructions for Cataract Surgery FAQs

What to expect after cataract surgery - Will I have any pain in my eye after cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery after effects – There is no severe pain associated with cataract removal surgery. You may experience post cataract surgery symptoms such as minor discomfort, blurry vision, watering and an itchy feeling, or a little soreness in your eye for a couple of days after cataract surgery. While some patients do not feel any major discomfort, others may feel like they have an eyelash or grain of sand in their eye. Your eye may also be slightly red after the cataract extraction. However, most of these cataract surgery recovery symptoms will settle within a few days. You can take an over-the-counter pain relieving tablet to help ease any pain.

Post cataract surgery follow up - When should I come back for follow-up visits post cataract surgery?

Your post cataract surgery follow up visits will be scheduled for 24 hours after the cataract removal, one week after the cataract surgery, and one month after the cataract procedure

How long do I have to keep my eye covered after cataract surgery?

You should wear indoor protective eye glasses for 24 hours and the outdoor protective eye glasses for 1 month after cataract surgery. It is advisable to remove your glasses while lying down or sleeping.

What are the usual post cataract surgery symptoms and how soon will they settle?

Mild redness, foreign body sensation, watering from both eyes and blurred vision is common post cataract surgery.  These cataract surgery recovery symptoms will settle over 1-2 weeks.

Is it safe to take a painkiller if I experience any pain after the cataract surgery?

Yes, you can take a painkiller (Analgesic tablet) in case of persisting pain.

How soon can I go home after the cataract removal surgery?

You will need to rest in a recovery area immediately after the cataract procedure until the effects of the sedation or anesthesia wear off. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour. After you receive instructions on cataract surgery after care, you can go home.

Can I eat immediately after cataract surgery?

Yes. You may have a light snack after your cataract operation.  Please carry your lunch or a snack with you if you are diabetic.

For how long after cataract surgery is vision blurry?

Some patients will experience blurred or double vision for a few days after cataract surgery. Vision will gradually begin to improve 48-72 hours after the surgery. You can expect adjustments in vision to occur for a few months after cataract surgery.

What symptoms are not so common after cataract surgery and have to be attended to immediately?

In case you experience symptoms of worsening or loss of vision, spots (floaters) or flashes in vision, increasing redness, increasing pain despite the use of pain medications, pus discharge, and persistent irritation post cataract surgery, you need to see your doctor immediately.

Will there be imbalance in vision after cataract surgery on the first eye?

Yes. Since cataract surgery is only performed on one eye at a time, you may notice an imbalance in your vision after cataract surgery on the first eye. Your vision will balance out after the second eye is operated on (1–4 weeks after surgery on the first eye).

Cataract Surgery Doctors NN1

Dr. Naren Shetty

Vice Chairman

Dr. Aishwarya

Consultant

Dr. Ravi Krishna Kanaradi

Consultant

Dr. Tejal SJ

Consultant

Dr. P Rohitha Nayak

Consultant

Dr. B K Suma

Ophthalmologist

Dr. Pooja Khamar

Consultant & Lead Trainer

Dr. G K Venkatesh

Consultant

Dr. Arthi Rasquinha

Consultant

Dr. Narendra K P

Consultant

Dr Sneha Gupta Sengupta

Consultant

Cataract Surgery Doctors NN2

Dr. Adrian Sandeep Braganza

HOD
Cataract Consultant

Dr. Himanshu Matalia

Medical Superintendent

Dr. Lubna Zameer

Consultant

Dr. Sushma Tejwani

Consultant

Cataract Surgery Doctors NN3

Dr. Colin A S Nazareth

Medical Director
Consultant

Dr. Sanket Bhatnagar

Chief Operating Officer(COO)
& Consultant

Dr. Prashanth R

Consultant

Dr. Dishitha Rathod Gowda

Consultant

Cataract Surgery Doctors NN4

Dr. Naren Shetty

Vice Chairman

Dr. Narendra K P

Consultant/ Medical Superintendent

Dr. Chaithra Aroor

Consultant/ Accreditation Coordinator

Dr. Harsha Nagaraj

Consultant

Dr. Sneha Gupta Sengupta

Consultant

Dr. Prajna Ghosh

Consultant

Dr Deepa R

Consultant

Dr Dhwni Shahanand

Consultant

Dr. Manohar S

Consultant

Cataract Surgery Patient Reviews

At Narayana Nethralaya, we are committed to providing our cataract patients with advanced quality eye care at affordable prices. These cataract eye surgery experiences stand testimony to the excellence in eye care that we offer.

H Subramaniam - Cataract surgery patient experience at NN

Amidst recent media reports of gross negligence and patient abuse in some of our hospitals, Narayana Nethralaya stands out like a beacon of hope and inspiration for patients. I speak from personal experience. I had made several visits to this hospital during the past two months and underwent cataract surgeries for both my eyes. The Patient is the focal point in Narayana Nethralaya. Patient care is their credo, patient comfort their passion and patient reassurance is their obsession. This philosophy has permeated throughout the hospital staff and each one of them (from the doctors, technicians, nurses, counsellors, and even the non-medical staff) is an epitome of kindness while interacting with the patient. Dr. Naren Shetty who performed the surgeries is a picture of confidence and at the same time he is compassionate, serene, and has all the time in the world for his patients. He answered all my questions in a manner that is comprehensible to a layman and doused all my anxieties before the surgery. After the surgeries there was a protocol of medications for six weeks which I followed meticulously and now both my eyes are as good as new. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Narayana Nethralaya to anyone who needs eye care.

Arpita Sen - Cataract surgery procedure experience at NN

Staff are disciplined, caring and always ready to help. They always wear a smile on their face with a positive attitude always. The whole process of pre and post cataract surgery of my mom by Dr. Naren Shetty was a cake walk for us. Thanks to the doc and his whole team at NN for imparting great services at affordable cost. The best part was I forgot my purse with all money and credit cards inside the parking lot. After an hour I realized that I left my purse and gave the key to the NN driver for valet parking. But really happy to see that when I rushed to get my purse back it was laying in the same place in my car. This shows great sense of honesty not only with NN direct staff but also with the valet parking drivers. Thanks NN.

Krishnamurthi R - Cataract surgery patient experience at NN

I got my mother-in-law, aged 80 years, operated for cataract a few months back. The operation was done nicely. All the staff and doctors were quite courteous and helpful. After our first experience I brought my sister from Yeshwantpur and got her operated for cataract for the second eye. She is having a better clear vision. We are very much impressed by the treatment and helpful nature of doctor and other staff. We are thankful to Narayana Nethralaya and Dr. Narendra who performed the operation very nicely. May God bless all and the hospital in the service of humanity.

Rajagopalan Narasimhan Iyengar - Cataract surgery procedure experience at NN

We approached Narayana Nethralaya Ashok Nagar Branch for a cataract operation for my wife. The reception, the staff, Doctors, and counsellors were kind and very responsive. Dr. Naren Shetty was very kind, encouraging the patient, and performed the operation without any strain to the patient. The entire team of Dr. Naren Shetty was VERY GOOD. We had the satisfaction in selecting one of the VERY GOOD hospitals in BANGALORE. Moreover, the insurance team also took quick action to get the approval. In short, very caring hospital.

Nagaraj Umarani - Cataract surgery patient experience at NN

I had wonderful experience in Narayana Nethralaya. I had come with my father for treatment for cataract for both eyes. From registration till counseling, all personnel treated us very well and I never wondered what to do next. Dr. Ravi Krishna was very humble and gave lot of confidence. I applied for insurance and the insurance department was very nice, patient and supportive about all required documentation, which helped me. It was a hassle-free procedure. Thanks a lot to Narayana Nethralaya!

Jagadhi Ramaswamy - Cataract surgery patient experience at NN

I underwent cataract surgery under the able guidance of Dr. Ravi Krishna at Narayana Nethralaya. We are very happy and relieved after the surgery. No words to describe the smooth and efficient work of the Doctor. To top it all, Dr. Bhujang Shetty is such a cool Doctor and we are at ease with this great person. All the staff are so courteous, helpful, and always smiling. We just don’t feel we are at a hospital. We felt we were at a resort. We will recommend this hospital to one and all.

Patient Testimonials

At Narayana Nethralaya, we are committed to providing our patients with advanced quality eye care at affordable prices. These eye surgery experiences stand testimony to the excellence in eye care that we offer.

Cataract

Case Study 1

A 69-year-old male patient visited Narayana Nethralaya with a complaint of diminished vision in both eyes which was gradually worsening. The patient was a known case of diabetes for 15 years. He had now developed diabetic macular edema, which is a swelling in the retina, along with cataract in both eyes. Both the cataract and the retinal disease were contributing to a decrease in vision. Since doing a cataract surgery would further increase his diabetic macular edema, the patient was counselled to first get treatment for his retinal condition. He was systematically given special anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections to reduce macular edema, prior to cataract removal surgery. The patient was then monitored for reduction in macular edema for a few weeks after which cataract surgery was planned. Since the patient had poor pupillary dilation due to diabetes, special instruments were used during the cataract surgery procedure to expand the pupil. The patient was also administered anti-VEGF injection intraoperatively during surgery.  At the time of presentation, the patient had 40% vision in both his eyes. After cataract surgery in both eyes, patient regained 95% vision. The patient was extremely happy and went home satisfied with the services offered to him at Narayana Nethralaya.

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Cataract

Case Study 2

A 62-year-old male patient visited Narayana Nethralaya with complaints of blurring of vision and pain in the left eye for the past 6 months. On examination, the vision in his left eye was extremely poor and he could only perceive hand movements vaguely. His examination revealed complicated high-grade mature cataract in the left eye with extremely shallow AC. He also had a history of glaucoma in both eyes since the past 5-7 years for which he was taking anti-glaucoma medication. After a complete evaluation, the patient was diagnosed to have phacomorphic glaucoma, which is a condition where high-grade cataract causes an increase in eye pressure. Performing cataract extraction with intraocular lens implant is extremely difficult in these complicated cases. This condition is considered an ophthalmic emergency. The patient was counseled to undergo immediate cataract surgery on the left eye and explained the risks for the same due to the complicated nature of the cataract. Our skilled and highly experienced cataract surgeons efficiently monitored his eye pressure during the cataract procedure and successfully removed the cataract and implanted an IOL (cataract lens). The patient regained his vision and was extremely happy with his cataract surgery outcome.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when a cataract develops? How does cataract of eye affect vision?

When we are young, the natural lens inside our eyes is clear. Light passes through the clear lens and is focused onto the retina at the back of the eye which sends signals to the brain via the optic nerve. With age the proteins in the eye form clumps and the lens gradually becomes more and more opaque. This obstructs the passage of light and interferes with vision.A cataract in eye makes things look blurry, hazy, or less colorful.    

What are cataract symptoms?

Cataract symptoms include cloudy or blurred vision, distorted or double vision, sensitivity to light and glare, difficulty seeing in poor lighting conditions, difficulty in distinguishing changes in contrast, and fading of colors. Cataract in eye causes people to feel as if they are living in a perpetual fog or looking through dirty eyeglasses. Everyday tasks such as driving, reading, and recognizing faces is affected. If allowed to progress, it can also lead to cataract blindness.

Can cataract be reversed?

No, once you develop cataracts, their growth cannot be reversed. However, cataract blindness can be reversed with a cataract operation that would involve the implementation of acataract intraocular lens (cataract with iol).

What type of cataract surgery is best?

The most common type of cataract surgery that is performed is phacoemulsification or “phaco” cataract surgery with foldable intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.    

Cataract with diabetes - Can I have cataract surgery if I have diabetes?

Diabetic cataract surgery – Patients with diabetes have multiple issues which can lead to diabetic cataract surgery complications. Though cataract surgery in diabetic patients poses many challenges, cataract procedure can be successfully performed in diabetic patients with careful preoperative planning, extra attention during surgery, and close after cataract surgery care. Though people having cataract with diabetes require more extensive evaluations before cataract operation and need close post-operative supervision, they can achieve excellent vision after cataract surgery if their blood glucose levels are well controlled. 

Can cataract cause blindness?

Yes – if left untreated, the cataract can lead to continued vision loss, which can affect day-to-day living and quality of life. As it becomes severe, the maturing cataract can turn the lens completely white and you could probably only distinguish between light and dark. Without treatment, it could eventually lead to total cataract blindness.An ophthalmologist can provide you with an accurate cataract diagnosis and advice you on cataract treatment options. 

What are cataract risk factors?

Cataract pathophysiology – Other than aging, cataract risk factors include a previous eye injury or inflammation, a previous eye surgery, excessive exposure to sunlight (ultraviolet-B rays), medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, genetic abnormalities, smoking, ionizing radiation (treatment for cancer) and prolonged use of corticosteroid medications. 

What are cataract treatment options?

Cataract treatment is a simple surgery where the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens for clear vision. Since cataract usually occurs due to age-related changes in the lens of the eye, it is necessary for everyone over the age of 50 to have their eyes checked for cataract regularly. 

What is the difference between regular cataract surgery and cataract laser surgery?

The main difference between traditional and laser cataract surgery is the technology used by the cataract surgeon. In a regular cataract surgery, the incision in the cornea is made manually with a hand-held instrument such as a scalpel or blade to remove the cataract and insert the artificial lens. A vibrating needle is used to break up thecataract or cloudy lens. In cataract laser surgery, the incision in the cornea is made with a special laser and an ultrasound probe is used to remove the actual cataract. When compared to regular cataract surgery, cataract laser surgery offers a higher level of accuracy and precision, reduces surgical time and energy in the eye, and has a shorter cataract surgery recovery time. Laser surgery can also treat astigmatism (an irregular-shaped cornea), which helps to improve vision over the traditional method.

Is cataract surgery safe?

Yes. Cataract surgery procedureis one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the world and has a very good safetyrecord, with minor or very rare complications.

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