Cataract & Intraocular Lens Options
A cataract is clouding of the eye’s natural lens that causes blurred or reduced vision. Treatment involves cataract surgery, where the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
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Dr. Bhaskar Gupta
Consultant Ophthalmologist & Vitreo-Retinal Specialist
20+ years experience
Causes
Why it happens ?
- Primary Cause: Age-related protein denaturation. Over time, the clear proteins in the lens clump together, turning the lens cloudy and yellow.
- Secondary Causes:
- Diabetes: High sugar levels in the eye fluid change the lens structure.
- Medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids (tablets or drops).
- Trauma: Previous eye injury or surgery (especially vitrectomy).
- Radiation: Excessive UV exposure or radiation therapy.
Incidence
Almost 50% of the population will have a symptomatic cataract by age 75.
Symptoms
Common Cataract Symptoms
Foggy/misty vision, difficulty driving at night due to glare, and colors appearing "washed out."
Treatment Options
Cataract is a common age-related condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, glare, and faded colours.
It develops gradually and is safely treated with cataract surgery when vision begins to affect daily activities.
Phacoemulsification
The standard modern surgery using ultrasound to remove the cloudy lens.
Bespoke Lens Selection (IOLs)
- Monofocal: Set for one distance; usually distance vision is clear, but reading glasses are needed.
- Toric: Tailor-made to correct astigmatism.
- Multifocal / EDOF: Advanced lenses designed to provide a range of vision (near to far) to minimize the need for glasses.