What is cataract?

Cataract is an eye condition in which the lens, the eye’s natural lens, becomes cloudy and then opaque. This leads to gradual decline in vision over time, affecting quality of life.

 

Cataracts occur as we age, but can also be caused by eye injuries, long-term use of certain medications, or certain diseases such as diabetes.

 

Do not let the disease progress and come for a consultation at the very first signs: blurred vision, sometimes double, pale colors, the need to change glasses frequently.

We restore clarity of vision through modern cataract surgery

The only treatment for cataract is surgery, cataract surgery being the most common ophthalmological intervention. Done on time, the operation is easily tolerated by the patient and recovery of vision is quick, an additional benefit being the decrease in dependence on glasses until they are eliminated.

The steps to follow are:

  • Cataract assessment consultation and surgery planningThis is a complete ophthalmological consultation to which is added the assessment of the degree of evolution of the cataract, the detailed presentation of the artificial lens options suitable for your case and the recommendation of the opportune moment for the operation. At Clario, we are at your disposal with a specialized and experienced team in cataract operations. We have at our disposal high-performance lenses that can correct existing refractive errors before the appearance of cataracts (myopia, hypermetropia, astigmatism can be corrected). Basically, depending on the type of lens chosen, after the operation you will be able to remain without glasses at a distance (in the case of a monofocal lens) or you will be without glasses both at a distance and near (in the case of a multifocal lens).
  • Complete investigations before surgeryThe complete package of investigations and measurements before surgery are done in the clinic with state-of-the-art equipment. In order to accurately determine the focal power of the artificial lens to be implanted, eye biometry is performed. The package also includes specular microscopy and in certain situations other investigations (ocular ultrasound, visual field, optic nerve or retinal tomography).
  • Cataract surgeryOn the day of the operation, you will undergo a thorough surgical intervention under local anesthesia. The procedure generally takes about 30 minutes and consists of ultrasonically removing the affected lens and implanting a clear artificial lens, which will restore the quality of vision as it was before the cataract appeared. You will go home immediately after the operation and come for a check-up the next day.
  • Control and evaluation after surgeryAfter surgery, it is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the use of eye drops and eye hygiene measures. Most patients notice significant improvements in vision within a few days after surgery. The doctor will establish the schedule for post-surgery checks, generally these are one day and one week after surgery. These periodic visits are essential to monitor recovery and ensure that vision is improving appropriately.

Is cataract surgery mandatory?

When the natural lens becomes opaque, it must be replaced. There are no drugs or drops to restore its transparency.

 

When the vision drops below 70% it is good to start thinking about cataract surgery and when the vision drops below 50% it is good to have the surgery done as soon as possible. Delaying it can make the intervention more difficult, with a higher risk of complications and difficult recovery.

 

At Clario, cataract surgery is performed without hospitalization and takes about 30 minutes, under local anesthesia, without pain or other discomfort. We operate ultrasound cataracts with a state-of-the-art American Alcon Centurion phacoemulsifier.

Patient feedback on cataract surgery

Investigations before cataract surgery

At Clario, you will have a detailed discussion with the surgeon performing the operation. Our doctors will explain your situation and the available treatment options.

 

The treatment plan is tailored to each patient and targets both cataracts and refractive errors, significantly reducing the need for glasses.

 

After the evaluation, you will benefit from a series of investigations to establish the condition of the eyes and the details required for the intervention. We apply the latest preoperative measurement standards to achieve the best results for each patient.

High performance artificial crystals

Our medical team will help you choose a state-of-the-art lens to replace the one affected by cataracts.

 

The lens we select is from renowned manufacturers and offers options for independence from glasses:

 

  • Monofocal lens: Ideal for distance clarity, but requires glasses for reading and detail work.
  • The multifocal lens: Perfect to completely dispense with glasses in 90-95% of daily situations, regardless of distance.
  • EDOF lens: The latest technology for independence from glasses at both distance and intermediate distances, with the possibility of still needing glasses in certain detail activities.

Modern operating theater and state-of-the-art equipment

The new operating theater was inaugurated in March 2020 and is equipped with the latest technologies in the field.

 

We operate cataracts on an American Alcon Centurion phacoemulsifier and a Zeiss Lumera 300 operating microscope, both state-of-the-art.

 

The surgical table comes from Brumaba, leader in comfort and reliability.

Doctors with overspecialization in cataract surgery

Whether it is an incipient or complex cataract, at Clario you are in the hands of the most qualified specialists.

Cataract surgery - Prices

(price per eye, including lens and control after surgery at one day and one week)

Cataract surgery with monofocal, hydrophilic, aspheric lens implantation. UV filter

Patients who opt for the monofocal lens will see better at distance after surgery, but will still need glasses for reading or detail work. It’s a good option for those who don’t mind wearing glasses in certain situations and want clear distance vision.

Cataract surgery price: from 2,500 lei
Preoperative investigation package price: 400 lei

Cataract surgery with multifocal premium artificial lens implantation / EDOF

With a multifocal lens, patients can see well at a distance and read without the need for glasses. However, there may be an initial adjustment time to get used to this lens, as the image may be less sharp in certain lighting conditions or at distance vision compared to a monofocal lens.

Cataract surgery price: from 6,500 lei / Pre-operative investigation package price: 400 lei

Frequently asked questions about cataract surgery

What is the biggest mistake made by those who have cataract surgery?

The biggest mistake is the strict treatment of cataracts with the simplest lens implant, not the other vision problems that can be solved with cataract surgery.

Modern artificial lenses allow you to see much better, even without reading glasses, for example. If you have an active life, a multifocal or EDOF lens can give you much more independence from glasses.

Our recommendation is that with cataract removal, you should very seriously consider a performing lens because it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity where you can solve several problems at the same time.

The ophthalmic surgeon will explain in detail all the options you have.

Why should I have surgery in a private clinic?

Cataract operations are performed both in the public and private system. Advantages of surgery in a private clinic:

– The full range of options regarding the choice of the artificial lens, from the simplest to the most high-performance, monofocal or multifocal with various protective treatments
– State-of-the-art technology of a private clinic
– Flexible schedule – you decide when to operate, you don’t sit on a waiting list of a public hospital to be called when there is room
– Impeccable sanitary security and hygiene
– Care before and after the operation provided individually by an entire medical team

Although considered routine, how your cataract surgery is done can affect your vision for the rest of your life. It is worth paying more attention to all the details and options that may prove essential in the future.

If I don't have surgery, how soon can I have serious problems?

Cataract is a condition with generally slow evolution, it is very rarely an emergency. However, delaying the operation too long can lead to solidification of the natural lens, at which point the operation becomes much more difficult and risky. Further delay in surgery can ultimately lead to blindness.

The ophthalmic surgeon can determine, through periodic checks after 60 years, the opportune moment for cataract surgery.

I'm afraid of surgery, what alternatives do I have?

So far, no method has been discovered to prevent or slow down the development of cataracts. Fortunately, however, technology has evolved a lot, making cataract surgery very safe and with great results, especially when done on time.

The operation is performed on an outpatient basis, without hospitalization and with local anesthesia. While we can’t take away your normal fear of surgery, we can and will do everything we can to make it a comfortable experience with results you’ll appreciate for a long time.

Can cataracts recur?

In a percentage of 20-30% of cataract surgery patients, at an interval ranging from a few months to a few years after the intervention, a decrease in vision due to secondary cataract may occur. It is not a complication of the operation. It does not affect the artificial lens and occurs due to fibrosis of the lens capsule.

The solution to this situation is through an in-office laser intervention, which is painless, quick and leads to the restoration of vision, as it was after cataract surgery.

What complications can occur after surgery?

You should know that, as with any intervention, cataract surgery carries risks related to infection and bleeding. The risks of the operation are higher in patients who have associated other eye diseases (high myopia, diabetic retinopathy, advanced glaucoma, hypermature cataract) or general diseases (severe hypertension, coagulopathy).

Intraoperative complications that may occur: rupture of the posterior capsule of the lens, loss of vitreous material, dislocation of the lens in the vitreous, dislocation of the artificial lens, suprachoroidal hemorrhage. Possible postoperative complications that may occur are infections, bleeding, detachment from the retina, increased intraocular pressure, thickening of the retina or cornea.

Under the conditions of a correct preoperative assessment, a correct surgical technique, having high-performance equipment and, very importantly – by strictly following the surgeon’s indications both intraoperatively and postoperatively, the vast majority of complications can be prevented and/or treated successfully.

Are tests required before surgery? What?

Before the operation, it is necessary to do a series of tests to assess the state of health (cardiological control, EKG, blood pressure measurement, blood tests).

During the preoperative ophthalmological consultation (a few days before the operation) the ophthalmologist will do a detailed examination of your eye to know its condition. Sometimes special investigations are needed to evaluate the retina, the optic nerve (tomography, ocular ultrasound, etc.)

What technology do you use?

At Clario, we operate cataracts with the latest American Alcon Centurion phacoemulsifier model and the best German surgical microscope, Zeiss Lumera. The surgical tables are from Brumaba, a brand renowned for the comfort offered to patients and their versatility.