cataract treatment

Frequently asked questions about cataracts

• What is cataract and why does it occur?

  A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which leads to gradual vision loss. Most often, a cataract is associated with age-related changes, metabolic disorders, chronic diseases (such as diabetes or hypertension), eye injuries, or complications after previous surgeries. There is also traumatic cataract, which develops when the lens is damaged after an impact or penetrating injury. Without treatment, vision continues to deteriorate and may eventually result in significant visual impairment.

• What symptoms may indicate the development of a cataract?

  The first signs of cataract include blurry, “foggy” vision, the feeling of looking through frosted glass or mist. You may experience difficulty reading, the need to change your glasses more frequently, poor vision in low light or bright light, halos and glare from car headlights or street lamps. Some people notice reduced contrast sensitivity and changes in color perception. If such symptoms appear, it is important to undergo diagnostic testing and discuss possible treatment with an ophthalmologist.

• Can cataract be treated without surgery — with drops or pills?

  Unfortunately, cataract cannot be treated without surgery. Eye drops, vitamins, or other medications cannot restore the transparency of the clouded lens. They may temporarily slow the progression but cannot eliminate the cause of vision loss. The only effective cataract treatment is surgical removal of the lens with implantation of an intraocular lens. Surgery is the only way to truly restore vision and return comfort to daily life.

• When is cataract surgery necessary?

  The indications for surgery are determined by an ophthalmologist after a complete eye examination. Surgery is recommended when the cataract significantly interferes with work, driving, reading, daily activities, or when the risk of complications increases. You should not wait until the cataract becomes completely “mature”: modern surgical methods allow treatment at earlier stages, when the lens is less dense and recovery is quicker and more comfortable.

• How is the “English Water Flow iQ-5 minutes” cataract surgery performed?

  Cataract surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, through a micro-incision, without stitches, and usually takes only a few minutes. With the “English Water Flow iQ-5 minutes” technique, a special balanced solution is introduced into the eye to gently break up the cloudy lens. The fragments are then removed, and a clear intraocular lens is implanted in their place. Anesthesia is local, applied as drops, so the procedure is painless, and the patient can go home the same day.

• How long does recovery take after cataract treatment and what restrictions exist?

  After cataract surgery, most patients notice improvements in vision on the same or the following day. Full stabilization of vision usually takes from several days to a few weeks, depending on individual characteristics. During the postoperative period, it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions: avoid rubbing the eye, lifting heavy objects, exposure to dust or dirt, and properly apply the prescribed drops. Following these rules minimizes risks and ensures the best treatment results.

• Will I need glasses after cataract removal?

  The outcome after cataract surgery depends on the type of intraocular lens implanted. A monofocal lens provides clear vision at one distance (usually far), so reading glasses may still be needed. If desired, you can choose a multifocal or trifocal lens, which provides clearer vision at different distances and reduces dependence on glasses. Lens selection is personalized and determined during diagnostics and consultation with the surgeon.

• Do you treat cataracts in children and complex cases?

  Yes, our center treats cataracts in children, including traumatic cataracts, and performs correction of unsuccessful previous cataract surgeries performed elsewhere. We handle complex cases involving scar tissue, accompanying retinal pathologies, glaucoma, or situations where earlier treatment did not produce the expected results. Each clinical case is evaluated individually, with detailed diagnostics and surgical planning. Our goal is to restore vision and improve the patient’s quality of life, regardless of the complexity of the condition.