A cataract occurs when the lens of the eye loses its transparency and becomes cloudy. It usually develops due to aging. However, it can also occur due to chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus or rheumatic diseases, eye trauma, certain medications (like corticosteroids),toxic factors (such as UV sunlight),or congenital causes.
The primary symptom of cataract is a decrease in distance vision. As it progresses, visual quality deteriorates at both near and far distances. Other symptoms may include light sensitivity during day and night, reduced night vision, occasional double vision, and fading of colors.
In the early stages of cataract, vision is only slightly affected, but as it advances, visual problems increase and can eventually lead to complete vision loss. Initially, patients may experience slightly blurred vision, glare around lights, faded colors, and minor reduction in vision. In some types of cataracts, night vision may remain normal while difficulty seeing in bright light is the main symptom.
When cataracts are diagnosed, if they are advanced and hardened, or if a person’s vision significantly affects daily life, surgery should be performed promptly. With today’s advanced technology, cataracts are removed through small incisions and ultrasonic waves (phacoemulsification, FAKO). Delaying surgery until the very last stage can make the procedure more difficult and prolong both the operation and recovery time. For faster visual rehabilitation, it is best to schedule surgery at an appropriate time according to your doctor’s recommendations.
There is no medication that can treat cataracts. The only effective treatment is surgical removal.
Cataract surgery is performed using FAKO devices that utilize ultrasonic waves to break up and remove the cloudy lens. In recent years, some devices offer femtosecond laser support (catalysis) during early stages, but the most critical factor determining the quality and success of the surgery is the surgeon’s experience and skill.
In the past, the primary goal of cataract surgery was simply to remove the cataract and improve vision. Today, patients have higher visual expectations. Depending on the lens selected, patients can reduce dependence on glasses after surgery and achieve optimal vision. Therefore, cataract surgery is now also important from a refractive perspective.
Before surgery, patients undergo a detailed examination, and their doctor explains which lenses are suitable for their eyes. To improve distance vision while also maintaining good intermediate and near vision, bifocal and trifocal lenses (smart lenses) are frequently used if the patient’s eyes are suitable.
Patients with macular degeneration, retinal diseases, advanced glaucoma, poorly controlled diabetes, night drivers, and those with excessively high visual expectations are generally not suitable for multifocal lenses, commonly called smart lenses. For these patients, specially designed lenses for distance vision can be highly effective.
Cataract surgery is painless. It is usually performed under topical anesthesia (eye drops). Typically, no injections are given to the eye during the procedure. General anesthesia is only used when absolutely necessary. In some cases, sedative medications may be administered before surgery to help relax the patient.
During the surgery, the natural cloudy lens is carefully removed without damaging other intraocular tissues. The lens is then replaced with a specially designed artificial intraocular lens, whose power is calculated in advance.
Pain or discomfort is not expected after cataract surgery. Mild stinging and blurred vision in the first few days is normal. One or two types of eye drops should be used for approximately 3–4 weeks. Patients should have a follow-up the day after surgery, avoid getting water in the eye during the first 5 days, and avoid activities involving bending forward excessively. Daily simple activities can generally be resumed.
Cataracts can occur at any age, including in newborns. Treatment in infants differs from cataract surgery in older children or adults. When deciding on cataract surgery in infants, factors such as whether it is unilateral or bilateral and the severity of the cataract are considered. In most infant surgeries, an intraocular lens is not immediately implanted; lens implantation can be planned for a later stage if necessary.
Some theories suggest that cataracts develop due to oxidative changes in the lens. While prevention is debated, studies indicate that certain foods and dietary supplements may help reduce the risk.
Evidence suggests that vitamins C and E may delay cataract development, so diets rich in these vitamins are recommended. Another preventive measure is wearing sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays, especially for those who spend significant time outdoors.
Although cataract formation cannot be completely prevented as lifespan increases, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet may help delay its onset.
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