What is cataract
Educational content. It does not replace an appointment with an ophthalmologist.
Understand
What is cataract
The term "cataract" refers to the loss of transparency of the crystalline lens, a type of lens located behind the iris in the eye. This is a common process with advancing age.
In most people, cataracts begin between ages 40 and 50 and symptoms become apparent gradually. Only an ophthalmologist can order the tests needed to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best surgical procedure for treatment.
Source: Brazilian Association of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ABCCR).
Signs that deserve attention
- Feeling that vision is blurry
- Constant change in glasses prescription
- Greater sensitivity to light
- Glare and halos around lights
- Faded colors
- Difficulty reading and driving at night
Noticed any of these signs? Take the vision test and talk to your ophthalmologist. Take the tests
- 25%of Brazilians over 50 have cataractFiocruz
- 98%is the success rate of cataract surgeryAmerican Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
- 28 Mcataract surgeries are performed worldwide every yearABCCR
- 22 Mpeople have received HOYA lenses worldwideHOYA
Frequently asked questions about cataract
Is cataract a disease of age?
It is more common with advancing age and usually starts between 40 and 50, but surgery is recommended based on how much vision is affected, not on age.
Is there treatment with eye drops or medication?
No. The only effective treatment for cataract is surgery, which replaces the cloudy lens with an intraocular lens.
Is cataract surgery safe?
Yes. Although it is a microscopic, highly complex procedure, it is very safe given current technology and the surgeon's experience.
Does it hurt? Do I need to stay in the hospital?
It is usually done with numbing drops, without pain, and recovery is usually quick. Your ophthalmologist will explain the details of your case.
Will I need glasses after surgery?
It depends on the lens chosen. There are lenses that correct distance, intermediate and near vision and can eliminate the need for glasses. Only the ophthalmologist recommends the most suitable one for you.
Can I correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism in the same surgery?
Yes. Cataract surgery can also correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, depending on the lens chosen.
Can cataract "come back"?
The removed lens does not grow back. Over time, the capsule that holds the lens may become cloudy in some patients, which is solved with a simple laser procedure recommended by the ophthalmologist.
How do I know if I have cataract?
Only an exam by an ophthalmologist confirms it. The tests on this site help you notice signs, but they do not replace an appointment.