Cataract surgery

What is cataract?

Cataract is a condition in which vision deteriorates due to clouding of the eye’s natural lens. It usually develops as part of the natural aging process, as the proteins in the lens change over time. This condition most commonly affects older people. As the lens becomes cloudy, light has difficulty passing into the eye, causing vision to appear as if looking through fog or a dirty window. As the disease progresses, vision becomes blurred, and colors may take on a yellowish or brownish tint.

Although cataracts are most often related to aging, other factors can increase the risk, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, smoking, various eye diseases, inflammation, injuries, and previous eye surgeries. Systemic diseases such as diabetes, radiation therapy to the head, use of certain medications, and genetic predisposition can also play a role.

How is cataract diagnosed?

Cataracts can be diagnosed during a routine ophthalmological examination using a slit lamp after pupil dilation. Preventively, it is recommended to have eye examinations every 1–2 years, and more frequently for older patients.

How is cataract treated?

There are no non-surgical treatments for cataracts; the only effective method is surgical removal of the cloudy lens. However, surgery is not required in all cases: if vision is still good or can be corrected with glasses, the procedure may be postponed.

If surgical treatment is chosen, the patient is referred to a consulting ophthalmic surgeon. The specialist explains how to prepare for the procedure:

• Blood tests should be performed about 2 weeks before surgery
• An electrocardiogram (ECG) should be completed
• Confirmation from a general practitioner is required stating that the patient’s condition is stable and surgery can be performed

Before the operation:

• Regular blood pressure medications should be taken
• Blood-thinning medications may need to be stopped or adjusted
• On the day of surgery, the patient should not eat or drink

Cataract surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia. One of the most modern, fastest, and safest methods is phacoemulsification. Small incisions (about 2.4 mm) are made in the cornea, and the cloudy lens is broken up using ultrasound inside the eye and removed without trauma. A new transparent, soft, foldable artificial lens is then implanted.

The procedure is painless and usually takes about 20–30 minutes, although more complex cases may take longer. Patients are typically discharged a few hours after surgery.

It is important to note that a secondary cataract may develop a few years after surgery. This is treated with a laser procedure that creates a small opening in the back of the lens capsule.

What is important after cataract treatment?

After surgery, patients should take it easy for at least a month and follow certain precautions:

• Use prescribed disinfecting eye drops
• Sleep on the back or on the side opposite the operated eye (avoid pressure on the eye)
• Be careful when washing to prevent water from entering the operated eye
• Avoid dust exposure
• Do not bend over excessively or lift heavy objects

When going outside:

• Wear large sunglasses
• Protect the eye from wind and foreign objects

Additionally, during the recovery period:

• Avoid swimming pools and open water
• Do not visit saunas

Types of intraocular lenses

Different types of lenses may be implanted during surgery:

• Standard single-focus lenses compensated by the National Health Insurance Fund (PSDF)
• Monofocal lenses
• Premium monofocal lenses
• Astigmatism-correcting (toric) lenses
• Extended depth of focus (EDoF) lenses
• Multifocal lenses
• Custom-sized lenses

Registration

• Kaunas: ligonine.savanoriu225@meliva.lt
• Vilnius: ligonine.laisves64@meliva.lt

Payment information

Important: The full cost of cataract surgery and the basic lens is covered by the Compulsory Health Insurance Fund (PSDF). However, it is important to understand that the price difference for a more expensive lens is not reimbursed and must be paid additionally by the patient.

If you choose a lens that is not covered by PSDF, you will need to cover the price difference. Information about the pricing differences and the final payable amount will be provided during the doctor’s consultation.