What are cataracts?
A cataract is the clouding of your eye’s natural lens, which can make vision blurry, dim, or increase sensitivity to light or glare. Cataracts most commonly develop with aging, but they can also be caused by certain medications (especially steroids), eye trauma, or conditions like diabetes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 20 million Americans aged 40+ have cataracts, and more than 6 million have already had cataract surgery.
What are the types of cataracts?
There are three main types, and each affects vision a little differently:
- Nuclear sclerosis – A gradual thickening and yellowing of the lens. Vision changes slowly and may not be noticeable until later stages.
- Cortical cataracts – They develop from the outer edges of the lens, resembling bicycle spokes, and may cause a sudden drop in vision once they reach the center—although they have typically been progressing gradually over time. These are commonly associated with diabetes.
- Posterior subcapsular cataracts – Appear like delicate, web-like patterns forming on the back surface of the lens capsule, often leading to significant glare—especially at night. These are commonly linked to diabetes and long-term steroid use.
Can cataracts be treated?
- There are no eye drops that prevent or cure cataracts.
- A healthy diet and good nutrition may help reduce risk. Some studies suggest vitamin C may lower the risk, especially after certain eye surgeries.
- When cataracts affect daily life, cataract surgery is the recommended treatment—and it’s one of the most commonly performed and safest procedures worldwide.
Can cataracts come back after surgery?
No, cataracts do not grow back. However, the thin capsule that holds the implant can become cloudy over time. This is called posterior capsular opacification (PCO) and can feel like the cataract has returned, but it is easily treatable.
What are intraocular lenses (IOLs)?
Intraocular lenses are an essential part of cataract surgery. Without them, patients would have to rely on very thick glasses—similar to what was common decades ago. These implants can often correct most or even all of your prescription, which may reduce or eliminate the need for distance glasses after surgery, though results can vary.
Types of IOLs (lens implants)
Choosing the right lens depends on your lifestyle and vision goals:
- Monofocal lenses – Designed to provide clear vision at one distance (usually far). Glasses may still be needed for reading or close work. Insurance covers these types of lenses.
- Toric lenses – Correct astigmatism besides distance vision, helping reduce dependence on glasses for clearer, sharper vision. These types of lenses are NOT covered by insurance and require extra measurements and time in surgery.
- Multifocal lenses – Provide multiple points of focus (distance, intermediate, and near), offering greater independence from glasses for daily activities. The rings of the multifocal lenses do have a slightly higher risk of glare with night driving afterwards that most patients can accommodate to. These types of lenses are NOT covered by insurance and require extra measurements and time in surgery.
- Note: If you have had LASIK, PRK, RK or any refractive eye surgery in the past, your surgery measurements are more complex but we have good formulas now to give you great results.
Cataracts are a natural part of aging but with early detection, proper monitoring, and the right treatment, your vision can be preserved and even improved.
Call our office today at (804) 270-3333 to schedule your annual eye exam with Dr. Pradhan. Regular exams help us guide you toward the best treatment options to support your eye health.
Your sight matters—and we’re here to help you protect it every step of the way.