What Is Cataract and Why Surgery Is Needed?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which can lead to blurred vision, glare, and difficulty seeing clearly. It is a common condition, especially in people over the age of 50, and can significantly affect daily activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces.

When lifestyle or vision quality is impacted, cataract surgery becomes necessary. This procedure replaces the cloudy lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), restoring clear vision and improving quality of life.

Common signs that indicate the need for cataract surgery include:

• Gradual blurring of vision that interferes with daily tasks

• Sensitivity to bright lights or glare, especially at night

• Difficulty distinguishing colors or seeing contrasts

• Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription without improvement

For international patients, choosing cataract surgery in Iran offers access to advanced surgical techniques, experienced ophthalmologists, and affordable medical tourism options, making it a safe and cost-effective solution for restoring clear vision.

Modern Cataract Surgery Techniques

Advances in ophthalmology have made cataract surgery in Iran safer, faster, and more precise than ever. Modern techniques allow surgeons to restore clear vision with minimal discomfort and short recovery times. Here are the most widely used methods:

Phacoemulsification (Phaco)

Phacoemulsification, often called Phaco, is the most common cataract surgery technique worldwide. In this method:

• A small incision is made in the cornea.

• An ultrasonic device breaks up the cloudy lens into tiny pieces.

• The lens fragments are gently removed, and an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted.

Advantages:

• Minimally invasive, requiring only a tiny incision

• Fast recovery, usually within a few days

• Reduced risk of complications compared to older methods

Recovery: Most patients notice improved vision within 24–48 hours and can return to normal daily activities quickly.

Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery

Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery uses a laser to perform precise steps of the procedure that were previously done manually.

Differences from conventional Phaco:

• Laser creates exact corneal incisions and softens the lens for easier removal

• Increases precision, potentially reducing risk of complications

• May improve visual outcomes, especially for patients with higher prescriptions or complex cataracts

Advantages:

• Ultra-precise lens fragmentation and incision

• Shorter ultrasound energy needed, which can reduce stress on the eye

• Enhanced safety and predictability

Intraocular Lens (IOL) Options

After removing the cloudy lens, a surgeon replaces it with an intraocular lens (IOL). Several types are available:

1. Monofocal IOLs – Provide clear distance vision; glasses may still be needed for reading

2. Multifocal IOLs – Offer clear vision at multiple distances, reducing dependency on glasses

3. Toric IOLs – Correct astigmatism along with cataracts

Choosing the right lens:

• Depends on your visual needs, lifestyle, and eye condition

• Experienced surgeons in Iran help patients select the lens that best matches their daily activities and expectations

For international patients, choosing cataract surgery in Iran not only provides access to these advanced techniques but also combines expert care with affordable medical tourism options.

Cataract Surgery Procedure: Step by Step

Understanding what to expect during cataract surgery in Iran helps patients feel prepared and confident. Modern techniques make the procedure safe, quick, and highly effective.

What Happens During Surgery

Cataract surgery is typically an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia using numbing eye drops. The step-by-step process usually includes:

1. Prepping the Eye: The eye is cleaned, and a speculum gently holds the eyelids open.

2. Incision: A tiny incision is made in the cornea, often less than 3 mm.

3. Lens Removal: The cloudy lens is broken into small pieces using ultrasound (Phaco) or softened with femtosecond laser, then carefully removed.

4. Intraocular Lens (IOL) Placement: A new artificial lens is inserted to replace the natural lens.

5. Closing the Incision: In most cases, the incision is self-sealing and does not require stitches.

Throughout the surgery, patients may feel slight pressure but typically do not experience pain. Surgeons using advanced equipment ensure precision and safety at every step.

 Duration and Recovery

• Duration: The entire procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes per eye, making it quick and efficient.

• Immediate Recovery: Most patients notice improved vision within 24–48 hours, though some mild blurriness or glare may occur initially.

• Returning to Daily Activities: Patients can resume normal activities within a few days, avoiding strenuous exercise for about a week.

• Follow-Up: Surgeons schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure optimal visual outcomes.

For international patients, cataract surgery in Iran combines short recovery times with expert postoperative care, making it convenient for medical tourists seeking safe and effective vision restoration.

Risks, Side Effects, and Expectations

While cataract surgery in Iran is generally safe and highly effective, it’s important for patients to understand the potential risks, temporary side effects, and realistic outcomes before undergoing the procedure. Being informed helps set proper expectations and ensures a smooth recovery.

 Common Temporary Effects

After cataract surgery, most patients experience mild and temporary effects that usually resolve within a few days to weeks:

• Dry eyes: Mild irritation or dryness is common and can be managed with prescribed eye drops.

• Blurred or fluctuating vision: Vision may be slightly blurry immediately after surgery before stabilizing.

• Light sensitivity or glare: Some patients notice increased sensitivity to bright light or glare at night, which generally improves with time.

These temporary effects are normal and part of the eye’s natural healing process.

Rare Complications

Serious complications are uncommon but can occur, even with advanced techniques:

• Infection (endophthalmitis): Rare but treatable with antibiotics

• Lens dislocation or misplacement: Occasionally the intraocular lens may shift, requiring adjustment or replacement

• Need for reoperation: Some patients may require minor additional procedures if residual refractive error remains

Choosing experienced surgeons and reputable centers, such as Bina Hospital in Mashhad, significantly reduces the likelihood of these complications.

Setting Realistic Expectations

• Improved vision is likely, but not always perfect: Most patients achieve excellent distance vision, but reading glasses may still be needed for close work depending on the type of IOL.

• Recovery is gradual: Visual clarity may continue improving for a few weeks after surgery.

• Aging factors: Natural eye changes like presbyopia or cataract in the other eye can affect long-term vision.

Understanding the realistic outcomes of cataract surgery in Iran helps patients feel confident, prepared, and satisfied with their results.

 Long-Term Results: Vision After Cataract Surgery

Patients who undergo cataract surgery in Iran can expect long-lasting improvements in vision, but understanding the factors that influence long-term results helps set realistic expectations.

How Long the Results Last

• For most patients, clear vision is achieved immediately after surgery and remains stable for many years.

• Modern intraocular lenses (IOLs) and precise surgical techniques help maintain visual clarity for 10–20 years or more.

• Minor changes in vision may occur naturally over time, but most patients remain largely independent of glasses for distance vision.

Impact of Aging and Need for Minor Enhancements

• Aging can gradually affect vision, even after successful cataract surgery. Around the age of 40–45, patients may experience presbyopia, requiring reading glasses for near tasks.

• Some patients might need minor enhancements or adjustments if residual refractive error develops, though this is relatively uncommon.

• Choosing experienced surgeons and advanced techniques in Iran ensures that any future adjustments are easier and safer to perform.

By understanding these factors, patients can confidently choose cataract surgery in Iran, knowing they are investing in a long-term solution for clearer vision and improved quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cataract Surgery in Iran

What is cataract surgery and how does it work?

A: Cataract surgery removes the cloudy natural lens of the eye and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This restores clear vision and improves overall visual quality. In Iran, advanced techniques like Phacoemulsification and Femtosecond laser-assisted surgery are widely available.

Am I a good candidate for cataract surgery in Iran?

A: Ideal candidates are adults with vision impairment due to cataracts, healthy eyes, and no contraindicating medical conditions. Preoperative evaluation ensures your eye health, lens selection, and surgical technique are personalized for optimal results.

Is cataract surgery painful?

A: No. Local anesthesia via numbing eye drops is used, and patients typically feel minimal discomfort. Most describe a slight pressure or mild irritation, which is manageable and temporary.

How long does the surgery take and what is the recovery time?

A: The procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes per eye. Most patients notice improved vision within 24–48 hours, and normal activities can resume within a few days. Complete stabilization of vision may take a few weeks.

What are the risks and side effects?

A: Common temporary effects include dry eyes, mild glare, or blurry vision. Rare complications may include infection, lens displacement, or the need for minor additional procedures. Choosing experienced surgeons and reputable hospitals, such as Bina Hospital in Mashhad, reduces these risks significantly.

 How long do the results last?

A: Modern cataract surgery provides long-lasting vision improvements, often stable for 10–20 years or more. Aging may gradually affect near vision (presbyopia), and minor enhancements may occasionally be needed.

 What types of lenses (IOLs) are available?

A: Common options include:

• Monofocal IOLs: Clear distance vision; reading glasses may still be needed

• Multifocal IOLs: Clear vision at multiple distances, reducing dependence on glasses

• Toric IOLs: Correct astigmatism along with cataracts

Experienced surgeons in Iran help patients select the lens that best fits their lifestyle.

How much does cataract surgery cost in Iran?

A: Costs vary based on technique, lens type, and hospital, but prices in Iran are often significantly lower than in the USA or Europe. Packages typically include preoperative tests, surgery, lens implantation, medications, and follow-up visits.

 Can international patients travel to Iran for cataract surgery?

A: Absolutely. Iran is a growing destination for medical tourism. Our platform helps patients with travel arrangements, visas, accommodation, and connects them with trusted hospitals and surgeons, ensuring a safe and convenient experience.

 How do I get started with cataract surgery in Iran?

A: You can:

1. Request a free medical evaluation online

2. Upload your medical reports securely

3. Schedule an online consultation with an experienced surgeon

4. Compare hospitals and treatment packages to choose the best fit

Our medical tourism service guides you through every step, ensuring a comfortable and well-organized experience.