Cataracts: Causes and Modern Treatment Options

Cataracts and How They Are Treated

Cataract is one of the most common eye conditions, particularly among older adults. It is not inherently a dangerous disease, but if left untreated it can worsen significantly. Cataract surgery has become one of the simplest and quickest ophthalmic procedures thanks to recent advances — femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery is now an excellent option in many cases. Choosing an experienced surgeon is the single most important factor in a smooth procedure. At Cornea Clinic, Dr. Ahmed Shaarawy — a consultant corneal and refractive surgeon — performs cataract surgery using the latest techniques through an incision as small as 1.8 mm with phacoemulsification ("phaco"). This article walks through what cataracts are, why they form, how they are treated, and the most common questions about cataract surgery.

What Is a Cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye's natural crystalline lens that interferes with clear vision. It is distinct from glaucoma — which is an elevation of intraocular pressure that gradually narrows the visual field. There is a common misconception that you should wait until a cataract "matures" before treating it. From a clinical standpoint that is a serious mistake; surgeons no longer recommend waiting. The earlier the procedure is performed, the better the outcome and the lower the risk of complications.

What Causes Cataracts?

The most important cause of cataract is ageing — most cataracts appear after age 60. Other contributing factors include:

• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Long-term corticosteroid use
• Corneal inflammation or injury
• High blood pressure or obesity

Symptoms of Cataract

Cataracts primarily affect vision and can interfere with many areas of daily life:

• Work performance
• Driving
• Reading
• Watching television
• Cooking
• Shopping
• Walking outdoors
• Faded colour perception
• Distorted vision

Depending on the severity of symptoms, the case should be discussed with a specialist to plan a surgical date.

Cataract Treatment

Cataract treatment

Dr. Ahmed Shaarawy treats cataracts using femtosecond laser-assisted surgery or phacoemulsification ("phaco"). Phacoemulsification is the most modern approach to cataract surgery: an ultrasound device fragments and removes the cataract through a tiny incision. With phaco, the surgeon implants a foldable intraocular lens through an incision that may be as small as 1.8 mm, and no sutures are required. Anaesthesia varies with each patient's case, but topical anaesthesia is most common.

When Does Vision Stabilise After Cataract Surgery?

Recovery varies between patients, but most people see clearly within a few days of surgery and can return to normal activities within a week. Cataracts do not return once removed, though some patients later develop posterior capsular opacification (sometimes called "after-cataract") — a clouding of the membrane behind the lens implant. This is treated quickly and painlessly with a YAG laser. Follow Cornea Clinic on Facebook.