Ophthalmology and Vision Science

Cataract and Lens Surgery

When the lens of the eye becomes hazy, it is said to have a cataract. Perception deteriorates as a result, making it particularly challenging to see minute details clearly. While some people's vision may only be mildly impacted, others may experience rapid vision loss. The precise type of cataract will determine how it develops, for example. Cataracts primarily affect adults over 50. Cataracts affect about 20 people out of every 100 between the ages of 65 and 74, so the risk increases with age. And over 50% of people over the age of 74 are affected. The primary factor causing blindness in emerging nations is cataracts. Because there are successful surgeries available, the number of people who become blind from cataracts is far lower in industrialised nations. The hazy lens of the eye is removed during cataract surgery, and a synthetic lens is put in its place.

There are three primary cataract types:
 cortical cataracts: in addition to resulting in blurred vision, this type of cataract also causes glare-related issues, which can be problematic, for example, when driving at night.
Posterior subcapsular cataracts: These cataracts seem to affect younger people more frequently and advance rather quickly.

Nuclear cataracts: These cataracts have a more significant impact on far-off objects than on nearby ones. Sometimes, only a small amount of vision loss occurs, and the problem progresses somewhat slowly. Some people can compensate for their vision loss by using glasses or contact lenses, either temporarily or for a longer period of time. The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery; there are no drugs for the condition. The hazy lens is taken out during cataract surgery, and a new, artificial lens is put in its place. During surgery, the lens capsule, an elastic membrane encasing the eye's lens, is left in place. Ultrasound only fragments the lens's outer cortex and inner core into tiny bits