A cataract is a loss of clarity, or clouding, of the normally clear lens of the eye. There are many factors which contribute to cataract formation, including age, family history, smoking, sunlight exposure, trauma, diabetes, and certain medications. The cataract itself does no permanent damage to the eye, however if the lens gets cloudy enough to obstruct vision to any significant degree, it is called a cataract. If the cataract progresses to the point that glasses or contact lenses cannot sharpen your vision enough to meet your vision requirements, cataract surgery may be performed.

Reducing the amount of ultraviolet light exposure by wearing a wide-brim hat and sunglasses may reduce your risk for developing a cataract but once developed there is no cure except to have the cataract surgically removed. In most cases, this is done through a small incision using ultrasound (phacoemulsification). This is an outpatient procedure which takes less than 30 minutes. The time to have the surgical procedure is when your vision is bad enough that it interferes with your lifestyle.

Cataract surgery is a very successful operation. One and a half million people have this procedure every year and 95% have a successful result. As with any surgical procedure, complications can occur during or after surgery and some are severe enough to limit vision. But in most cases, vision, as well as quality of life, improves.