{"id":1872,"date":"2026-10-20T08:52:01","date_gmt":"2026-10-20T08:52:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/"},"modified":"2026-10-20T12:57:37","modified_gmt":"2026-10-20T12:57:37","slug":"lens-and-cataract","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/","title":{"rendered":"Lens and cataract guides"},"content":{"rendered":"<!-- Hero (Photo + summary card) Start -->\n<section class=\"page-hero\" id=\"top\">\n\t<div class=\"phero-inner pad with-media container-fluid\"><div class=\"row\">\n\t\t<div class=\"phero-left col-12 col-lg-7\">\n\t\t\t<div data-hero-in><ol class=\"crumbs\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumb\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/\">Home: eye surgery in Istanbul<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/\">Knowledge centre<\/a><\/li><li><span aria-current=\"page\">Lens &amp; cataract guides<\/span><\/li><\/ol><\/div>\t\t\t<h1 class=\"t64 hero-title phero-title\" data-lines>Cataract Surgery Guide: Lens and Cataract Questions Answered by Our Surgeons<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"phero-meta\" data-hero-in><li><svg width=\"16\" height=\"16\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-check\"\/><\/svg>Medically reviewed by <span class=\"ph\">{{surgeon}}<\/span> \u00b7 Last updated <span class=\"ph\">{{date}}<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"phero-right has-media col-12 col-lg-5\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"phero-media\" data-hero-in><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"590\" height=\"880\" src=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/cataract-surgery-surgical-microscope.webp\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Eye surgeon operating with a surgical microscope\" fetchpriority=\"high\" srcset=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/cataract-surgery-surgical-microscope.webp 590w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/cataract-surgery-surgical-microscope-201x300.webp 201w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px\" \/><\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"inshort\" data-hero-in><p>This cataract surgery guide collects our plain-English articles on cataracts and lens implants: when to operate, which lens to choose, recovery and flying home. Cataract surgery usually takes 20 to 45 minutes under local anaesthetic (NHS), and 9 in 10 people see better afterwards (National Eye Institute). Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sat\u0131c\u0131, Do\u00e7. Dr. Muhammet Derda \u00d6zer and Op. Dr. Aysan Bayram review the guides.<\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<!-- Hero (Photo + summary card) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Heading (Text without a heading) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad\" id=\"intro\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"gen-intro prose\"><p data-reveal>A cataract is a clouding of the eye&#8217;s natural lens. It develops slowly, and the National Eye Institute (NEI) says that by age 80 most people either have a cataract or have already had cataract surgery. The only way to remove a cataract is an operation: the surgeon replaces the clouded lens with a clear artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL). That is why almost every question people ask about cataracts is really one of three: &#8220;is it time for surgery?&#8221;, &#8220;which lens should I choose?&#8221; and &#8220;what happens afterwards?&#8221;<\/p>\n<p data-reveal>Each guide below answers one of those questions in plain language, with the numbers that matter and the source behind every figure. They are grouped the way most people research: first deciding whether surgery is needed, then choosing a lens, then recovery and travel, and finally the problems that can appear months or years later.<\/p>\n<p data-reveal>The guides are reviewed by the surgeons who operate in Istanbul. <strong>Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sat\u0131c\u0131<\/strong>, former Head of Ophthalmology at Harran University, leads our cataract and premium-lens surgery. <strong>Op. Dr. Aysan Bayram<\/strong> is a cataract, laser and retina surgeon. <strong>Do\u00e7. Dr. Muhammet Derda \u00d6zer<\/strong> (Do\u00e7. = Associate Professor) operates on cataracts in eyes that also have corneal, retinal or inflammatory disease. Lens replacement is the same operation as cataract surgery, done to reduce your need for glasses rather than to treat a cloudy lens, so the lens guides apply to both.<\/p>\n<p data-reveal>If you already know you want surgery, the main pages explain methods, lens options and the trip to Istanbul.<\/p><div class=\"links-row\" data-reveal><a class=\"link-arrow\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/cataract-surgery-turkey\/\">Cataract surgery in Turkey and Istanbul <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><a class=\"link-arrow\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/lens-replacement-surgery-turkey\/\">Lens replacement (RLE \/ smart lens) in Turkey <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Heading (Text without a heading) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Heading (Topic groups with sub-headings) Start -->\n<section class=\"panel\" id=\"lens-and-cataract-guides-by-question\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t\t<div class=\"sec-head is-center row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col-12\"><h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>Lens and cataract guides, by question<\/h2><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sub-block\"><div class=\"sub-head\"><h3 class=\"t32\" data-reveal>1. Is it time for cataract surgery?<\/h3><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"features row row-cols-1 row-cols-md-2 row-cols-lg-3\" data-stagger>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-clock\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Cataract symptoms and stages: when is it time for surgery?<\/h3><p>Cataracts do not need immediate treatment. The NHS lists blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light and faded colours as the usual symptoms, and the NEI says your doctor may suggest surgery once a cataract gets in the way of everyday activities such as reading or driving. Most people do not need to rush, and waiting typically will not harm the eye.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/cataract-symptoms-and-stages-when-is-it-time-for-surgery\/\">Cataract symptoms and stages: when is it time for surgery? <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-clock\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>NHS cataract waiting times by region (updated quarterly)<\/h3><p>How long the NHS wait is depends on where you live. NHS England&#8217;s figures for the end of July 2026 show 620,931 ophthalmology patients on waiting-list pathways, with 72.9% waiting up to 18 weeks against the 92% standard. These figures cover all ophthalmology, not cataracts alone; the guide breaks the picture down by region.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/nhs-cataract-waiting-times-by-region\/\">NHS cataract waiting times by region (updated quarterly) <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-lens\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>How long does cataract surgery take?<\/h3><p>Usually 20 to 45 minutes per eye, according to the NHS, under local anaesthetic, and most people go home the same day. The guide walks through each step, from the dilating drops to the new lens, and explains why both eyes are normally done on separate days.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/how-long-does-cataract-surgery-take\/\">How long does cataract surgery take? <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sub-block\"><div class=\"sub-head\"><h3 class=\"t32\" data-reveal>2. Choosing a lens and the right treatment<\/h3><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"features row row-cols-1 row-cols-md-2 row-cols-lg-3\" data-stagger>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-lens\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Trifocal vs EDOF vs monofocal lenses compared<\/h3><p>A monofocal lens, the most common type, has one focusing distance and usually means reading glasses. Multifocal (including trifocal) and extended-depth-of-focus (EDOF) lenses aim to reduce glasses. A Cochrane review of 20 trials with 2,230 people found multifocal lenses gave better near vision but made halos about 3.6 times more likely, so the right choice depends on what matters to you.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/trifocal-vs-edof-vs-monofocal-lenses-compared\/\">Trifocal vs EDOF vs monofocal lenses compared <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-lens\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>PanOptix vs Vivity vs Synergy: premium lens guide<\/h3><p>PanOptix is a trifocal lens, Vivity is an EDOF lens, and Synergy combines multifocal and EDOF designs in one lens. In a 2022 US comparison, 83% of PanOptix patients were completely free of glasses against 33% with Vivity, while 85% of Vivity patients noticed no or only a little glare and halo in dim light against 69% with PanOptix. These are manufacturers&#8217; lens names, not clinics.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/panoptix-vs-vivity-vs-synergy-premium-lens-guide\/\">PanOptix vs Vivity vs Synergy: premium lens guide <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-lens\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Trifocal lenses: bad experiences, halos and how to avoid them<\/h3><p>Halos and glare are the commonest complaint. In the US approval study of the PanOptix lens, 12.6% of patients reported severe halos at six months (0.9% with a monofocal lens), although only 2.4% were bothered very much by them. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) suggests frequent night drivers consider a monofocal lens instead.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/trifocal-lenses-bad-experiences-halos-and-how-to-avoid-them\/\">Trifocal lenses: bad experiences, halos and how to avoid them <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-bolt\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Lens replacement vs laser eye surgery after 50<\/h3><p>Laser reshapes the cornea and cannot restore the eye&#8217;s focusing power. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth) says refractive lens exchange (RLE) is often preferred to laser in the retirement age group, in whom early cataract is common. This guide compares both by age.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/lens-replacement-vs-laser-eye-surgery-after-50\/\">Lens replacement vs laser eye surgery after 50 <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-lens\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Disadvantages of lens replacement surgery<\/h3><p>Every operation has downsides, and this guide lists them honestly. The NHS names a detached retina, posterior capsule opacification, a second operation, under- or over-correction, halos and glare. A 2025 review in the <em>British Journal of Ophthalmology<\/em> classed retinal detachment as rare after cataract surgery (about 1 in 1,000) and uncommon after lens replacement (about 1 in 500).<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/disadvantages-of-lens-replacement-surgery\/\">Disadvantages of lens replacement surgery <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-clock\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>ICL vs laser for high myopia and thin corneas<\/h3><p>When a prescription is too strong or a cornea too thin for laser, an implantable collamer lens (ICL) is often the alternative. The RCOphth describes it as the most used phakic lens, placed behind the iris in front of your natural lens. Its US label covers myopia from \u22123.0 D to \u221215.0 D, with a reduction up to \u221220.0 D, and warns of a higher long-term risk of cataract.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/icl-vs-laser-for-high-myopia-and-thin-corneas\/\">ICL vs laser for high myopia and thin corneas <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sub-block\"><div class=\"sub-head\"><h3 class=\"t32\" data-reveal>3. Recovery, glasses and travel<\/h3><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"features two row row-cols-1 row-cols-md-2\" data-stagger>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-wallet\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Cataract surgery recovery and flying home<\/h3><p>You usually feel better within a day or two, and the NEI says most people are completely healed after 8 weeks. The AAO says there is generally no restriction on air travel after cataract surgery in an otherwise healthy eye, and surgeons usually check the eye the day after and again about a week later. Most patients can fly about 3\u20137 days after surgery, once their surgeon has examined the eye.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/cataract-surgery-recovery-and-flying-home\/\">Cataract surgery recovery and flying home <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-lens\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Bending, lifting, showering and sleeping after cataract surgery<\/h3><p>The NHS says do not rub the eye, do not get water in it, do not lift anything heavy or play sports, and wear a plastic shield at night if you are given one. The NEI adds that bending over should also be avoided for a few weeks. The NHS expects you to use eye drops for about four weeks.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/bending-lifting-showering-sleeping-after-cataract-surgery\/\">Bending, lifting, showering and sleeping after cataract surgery <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-clock\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Can I use my old glasses after cataract surgery?<\/h3><p>Possibly for a short time, but your prescription will probably have changed. The NHS says you may still need glasses for reading or distance and that the prescription may differ from before, and the NEI says you might need a new prescription once the eye is completely healed.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/can-i-use-my-old-glasses-after-cataract-surgery\/\">Can I use my old glasses after cataract surgery? <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-clock\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Fluctuating vision after cataract surgery<\/h3><p>Vision can change from hour to hour while the eye heals, and the NHS says it may take several days to improve. If it does not settle, the surface of the eye is a common culprit: a case discussed in <em>Cataract &amp; Refractive Surgery Today<\/em> (February 2022) traced fluctuating vision after a multifocal lens to dry eye, which improved with treatment of the eye surface.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/fluctuating-vision-after-cataract-surgery\/\">Fluctuating vision after cataract surgery <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"sub-block\"><div class=\"sub-head\"><h3 class=\"t32\" data-reveal>4. Problems that can appear later<\/h3><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"features two row row-cols-1 row-cols-md-2\" data-stagger>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-clock\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>Blurry vision after cataract surgery (posterior capsule opacification \/ YAG)<\/h3><p>Vision that was clear and then turns misty months or years later is often posterior capsule opacification (PCO), sometimes called a secondary cataract or &#8220;after-cataract&#8221;. The NEI says it can appear weeks, months or even years after surgery, and your eye doctor can fix it with laser treatment. Other causes, such as dry eye or a leftover prescription, are covered too.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/blurry-vision-after-cataract-surgery\/\">Blurry vision after cataract surgery (posterior capsule opacification \/ YAG) <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\"><div class=\"feat h-100\"><span class=\"feat-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg width=\"26\" height=\"26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-bolt\"\/><\/svg><\/span><h3>After-cataract (posterior capsule opacification) and YAG laser<\/h3><p>NHS patient information says PCO occurs in between 10 and 20% of patients at any time after surgery, and that YAG laser treatment takes about five to ten minutes and is painless. The cloudy membrane is simply opened with the laser, and for the vast majority of people vision improves. The guide explains the rare risks and what to expect afterwards.<\/p><a class=\"feat-go\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/after-cataract-and-yag-laser\/\">After-cataract (posterior capsule opacification) and YAG laser <svg width=\"18\" height=\"18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Heading (Topic groups with sub-headings) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Table (Table on a dark panel) Start -->\n<section class=\"panel dark\" id=\"cataract-and-lens-questions-where-to-start\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t\t<h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>Cataract and lens questions: where to start<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p class=\"t22 sec-lead\" data-reveal>The first sentence of each guide answers the question; the rest gives you the detail. If you only have a few minutes, start here:<\/p>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tbl-flow\"><div class=\"tbl-wrap\" data-reveal><table class=\"tbl rsp\"><thead><tr><th scope=\"col\">If your question is\u2026<\/th><th scope=\"col\">Read first<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><th scope=\"row\">&#8220;How do I know it is a cataract, and is it time?&#8221;<\/th><td data-label=\"Read first\"><a href=\"\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/cataract-symptoms-and-stages-when-is-it-time-for-surgery\/\">Cataract symptoms and stages<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">&#8220;How long will I wait on the NHS?&#8221;<\/th><td data-label=\"Read first\"><a href=\"\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/nhs-cataract-waiting-times-by-region\/\">NHS cataract waiting times by region<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">&#8220;Which lens is best for me?&#8221;<\/th><td data-label=\"Read first\"><a href=\"\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/trifocal-vs-edof-vs-monofocal-lenses-compared\/\">Trifocal vs EDOF vs monofocal lenses<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">&#8220;I&#8217;m over 50 and tired of reading glasses&#8221;<\/th><td data-label=\"Read first\"><a href=\"\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/lens-replacement-vs-laser-eye-surgery-after-50\/\">Lens replacement vs laser after 50<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">&#8220;I&#8217;m worried about halos and glare&#8221;<\/th><td data-label=\"Read first\"><a href=\"\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/trifocal-lenses-bad-experiences-halos-and-how-to-avoid-them\/\">Trifocal lenses: halos and how to avoid them<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">&#8220;How long is the operation, and how long is recovery?&#8221;<\/th><td data-label=\"Read first\"><a href=\"\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/how-long-does-cataract-surgery-take\/\">How long does cataract surgery take?<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/cataract-surgery-recovery-and-flying-home\/\">Recovery and flying home<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><th scope=\"row\">&#8220;My vision has gone cloudy again&#8221;<\/th><td data-label=\"Read first\"><a href=\"\/en\/eye-health\/lens-and-cataract\/after-cataract-and-yag-laser\/\">After-cataract and YAG laser<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><p data-reveal>Lens surgery is not the only way to change how you see. If your question is about laser, read our <a href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/laser-eye-surgery\/\">laser eye surgery guides<\/a>; for thin or irregular corneas, see our <a href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/keratoconus-cornea\/\">keratoconus and cornea guides<\/a>; for retina and eye-pressure problems, our <a href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/retina-glaucoma\/\">retina and glaucoma guides<\/a>; and for heavy or drooping lids, our <a href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/eyelids\/\">eyelid and cosmetic guides<\/a>. For side-by-side comparisons of every eye treatment, go to <a href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/comparisons\/\">eye treatment comparisons<\/a>, and for unfamiliar terms such as &#8220;phacoemulsification&#8221;, &#8220;IOL&#8221; or &#8220;capsulotomy&#8221;, use the <a href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-glossary\/\">eye glossary A\u2013Z<\/a>.<\/p><\/div>\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- Table (Table on a dark panel) End -->\n\n\n<!-- FAQ (FAQ accordion) Start -->\n<section class=\"faq pad\" id=\"faq\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"faq-grid\">\n\t<div class=\"faq-side\">\n\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"t48\" data-reveal>Cataract surgery guide: frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"acc\" data-stagger>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item is-open\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-controls=\"faq-02b17fd2-a1\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-q1\">What is a cataract and what are the symptoms?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-a1\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-02b17fd2-q1\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside the eye. It develops gradually, and the NHS lists blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light, faded colours (especially blue), double vision and halos around lights as the usual symptoms. Risk rises significantly from about age 60, and smoking, diabetes, eye injury and long-term steroid use also increase it.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-02b17fd2-a2\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-q2\">When should I have cataract surgery?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-a2\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-02b17fd2-q2\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>When the cataract starts to get in the way of everyday life. The NHS says cataracts do not need immediate treatment and that surgery is the choice if you want to improve your sight, and the NEI says waiting typically will not harm your eye. Your surgeon will help you decide after measuring how much the cataract affects your vision, and driving standards can also play a part.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-02b17fd2-a3\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-q3\">How long does cataract surgery take?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-a3\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-02b17fd2-q3\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>Usually 20 to 45 minutes per eye, according to the NHS, and it is normally done under local anaesthetic, so you are awake but feel no pain. You go home the same day. If both eyes need surgery they are normally treated on separate days.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-02b17fd2-a4\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-q4\">Which lens is best for cataract surgery?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-a4\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-02b17fd2-q4\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>There is no single best lens, only the best lens for your eyes and priorities. The AAO says the standard monofocal lens is the most common and gives one focusing distance, usually distance, so you would wear reading glasses. Multifocal, trifocal and EDOF lenses can reduce your need for glasses, but they raise the chance of halos and glare, and the AAO advises against them for people with glaucoma, macular degeneration or other eye disease. A toric lens can correct astigmatism.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-02b17fd2-a5\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-q5\">Is lens replacement the same as cataract surgery?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-a5\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-02b17fd2-q5\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>The operation is the same; the reason is different. The RCOphth explains that refractive lens exchange (RLE) is identical to modern cataract surgery but is done mainly to reduce dependence on glasses, while cataract surgery restores clear vision when glasses or contact lenses can no longer do it. Because RLE is done on an eye that may not yet have a cataract, its retinal detachment risk is higher than after cataract surgery, about 1 in 500 against 1 in 1,000 in the 2025 review above.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-02b17fd2-a6\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-q6\">When can I fly home after cataract surgery?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-a6\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-02b17fd2-q6\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>Most patients can fly about 3 to 7 days after surgery, once their surgeon has checked the eye. The AAO says there is generally no restriction on air travel after cataract surgery in an otherwise healthy eye, and ophthalmologists usually examine the eye the day after surgery and about a week later. Keep your eye drops and your surgical report in your hand luggage, and follow your surgeon&#8217;s advice for your own eye.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-02b17fd2-a7\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-q7\">Can cataracts come back?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-a7\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-02b17fd2-q7\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>The cataract itself cannot, because the clouded lens has been removed, but the thin membrane that holds the new lens can turn cloudy. This is called posterior capsule opacification, and NHS patient information says it occurs in between 10 and 20% of patients at any time after surgery. A painless YAG laser treatment of five to ten minutes opens the membrane and usually restores clear vision.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-02b17fd2-a8\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-q8\">Is cataract surgery available on the NHS?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-a8\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-02b17fd2-q8\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>Yes, in England standard cataract surgery is provided by the NHS, but waiting times vary. NHS England&#8217;s July 2026 statistics show 72.9% of ophthalmology patients waiting up to 18 weeks against a 92% standard. Lens surgery to reduce your need for glasses is not usually offered on the NHS, and the AAO notes that premium lenses are usually paid for out of pocket.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"acc-item\"><h3><button type=\"button\" class=\"t32\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"faq-02b17fd2-a9\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-q9\">Who writes and reviews these guides?<svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-plus\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/h3><div class=\"acc-panel\" id=\"faq-02b17fd2-a9\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"faq-02b17fd2-q9\"><div class=\"acc-body\"><p data-reveal>Our cataract and lens guides are reviewed by Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sat\u0131c\u0131, Op. Dr. Aysan Bayram and Do\u00e7. Dr. Muhammet Derda \u00d6zer, who operate in a fully equipped, Ministry of Health\u2013licensed operating theatre in Istanbul. Every figure is taken from a named medical source such as the NHS, the NEI, the AAO, the RCOphth or the US Food and Drug Administration, and the review date is shown at the top of each guide.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is a cataract and what are the symptoms?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside the eye. It develops gradually, and the NHS lists blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light, faded colours (especially blue), double vision and halos around lights as the usual symptoms. 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Keep your eye drops and your surgical report in your hand luggage, and follow your surgeon's advice for your own eye.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can cataracts come back?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The cataract itself cannot, because the clouded lens has been removed, but the thin membrane that holds the new lens can turn cloudy. This is called posterior capsule opacification, and NHS patient information says it occurs in between 10 and 20% of patients at any time after surgery. A painless YAG laser treatment of five to ten minutes opens the membrane and usually restores clear vision.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is cataract surgery available on the NHS?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes, in England standard cataract surgery is provided by the NHS, but waiting times vary. NHS England's July 2026 statistics show 72.9% of ophthalmology patients waiting up to 18 weeks against a 92% standard. 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Every figure is taken from a named medical source such as the NHS, the NEI, the AAO, the RCOphth or the US Food and Drug Administration, and the review date is shown at the top of each guide.\"}}]}<\/script><\/section>\n<!-- FAQ (FAQ accordion) End -->\n\n\n<!-- List (Related pages) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad\" id=\"related-pages\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\">\n\t<div class=\"sec-head is-center row\"><div class=\"col-12\"><h2 class=\"t48 sec-title\" data-reveal>Related pages<\/h2><\/div><\/div>\t\t<ul class=\"pg-links row row-cols-1 row-cols-sm-2 row-cols-lg-3\" data-stagger>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><a class=\"pg-link\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/\"><span>Knowledge centre: all eye health guides<\/span><svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow-ur\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><a class=\"pg-link\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/laser-eye-surgery\/\"><span>Laser eye surgery guides<\/span><svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow-ur\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><a class=\"pg-link\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/keratoconus-cornea\/\"><span>Keratoconus and cornea guides<\/span><svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow-ur\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><a class=\"pg-link\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/retina-glaucoma\/\"><span>Retina and glaucoma guides<\/span><svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow-ur\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><a class=\"pg-link\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/eyelids\/\"><span>Eyelid and cosmetic eye surgery guides<\/span><svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow-ur\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><a class=\"pg-link\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-health\/comparisons\/\"><span>Eye treatment comparisons<\/span><svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow-ur\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t<li class=\"col\"><a class=\"pg-link\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/eye-glossary\/\"><span>Eye glossary A\u2013Z<\/span><svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#i-arrow-ur\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/li>\n\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- List (Related pages) End -->\n\n\n<!-- List (Sources and medical review) Start -->\n<section class=\"psec pad tight\"><div class=\"container-fluid px-0\"><div class=\"row g-0\"><div class=\"col-12\"><details class=\"sources\" data-reveal><summary class=\"t22\">Sources for the facts on this page<\/summary><ol>\n\t\t<li>*Medical facts (all opened and checked, 7 October 2026):**<\/li>\n\t\t<li>NHS, <em>Cataract surgery<\/em> (reviewed 6 March 2025): usually 20\u201345 minutes; usually local anaesthetic; blurry for a few hours; several days for vision to improve; eye may hurt for a few days; drops for about 4 weeks; plastic shield at night; no rubbing, no water in the eye, no heavy lifting or sport; no driving until vision back to normal; glasses may still be needed and the prescription may differ. https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/cataract-surgery\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li>NHS, <em>Cataract surgery: recovery<\/em> (reviewed 6 March 2025): same recovery advice; contact an optician for cloudy or blurry vision and NHS 111 for sudden floaters, flashes or a dark curtain. https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/cataract-surgery\/recovery\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li>NHS, <em>Cataracts in adults<\/em> (reviewed 12 March 2025): symptoms (blurred vision, night vision, light sensitivity, faded colours, double vision, halos); risk rises significantly from about 60; smoking, diabetes, injury and steroids as risk factors; no immediate treatment needed; separate days for each eye; same-day discharge. https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/cataracts\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li>NHS, <em>Laser eye surgery and lens surgery<\/em> (reviewed 15 February 2024): not usually offered on the NHS; lens-surgery risks (detached retina, PCO, second operation, under\/over-correction, halos and glare). https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/tests-and-treatments\/laser-eye-surgery-and-lens-surgery\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li>National Eye Institute (NIH), <em>Cataracts<\/em> (updated 19 August 2026): by age 80 most people have cataracts or have had surgery; surgery when a cataract gets in the way of everyday activities; most people need not rush; 9 in 10 see better afterwards. https:\/\/www.nei.nih.gov\/learn-about-eye-health\/eye-conditions-and-diseases\/cataracts<\/li>\n\t\t<li>National Eye Institute (NIH), <em>Cataract surgery<\/em> (updated 5 December 2024): eye feels better after 1\u20132 days; most people completely healed after 8 weeks; avoid touching the eye, bending over and lifting heavy things for a few weeks; new prescription once healed; secondary cataract (PCO) can appear weeks, months or years later and is fixed with laser. https:\/\/www.nei.nih.gov\/learn-about-eye-health\/eye-conditions-and-diseases\/cataracts\/cataract-surgery<\/li>\n\t\t<li>American Academy of Ophthalmology, <em>IOL implants: lens replacement after cataracts<\/em> (18 June 2026): monofocal (most common, one focusing distance), multifocal, EDOF, accommodative, light-adjustable and toric lenses. https:\/\/www.aao.org\/eye-health\/diseases\/cataracts-iol-implants<\/li>\n\t\t<li>American Academy of Ophthalmology, <em>Factors to consider in choosing an IOL for cataract surgery<\/em> (31 March 2025): multifocal and EDOF lenses generally not recommended with glaucoma, macular degeneration or other eye disease; frequent night drivers may prefer monofocal; toric lenses for astigmatism; premium lenses usually paid out of pocket. https:\/\/www.aao.org\/eye-health\/tips-prevention\/best-artificial-lens-implant-iol-cataract-surgery<\/li>\n\t\t<li>American Academy of Ophthalmology, <em>When can you fly after cataract surgery?<\/em> (Ask an Ophthalmologist; updated 1 June 2026): generally no restriction on air travel; examinations the day after surgery and about a week later. https:\/\/aao.org\/eye-health\/ask-ophthalmologist-q\/when-can-you-fly-after-cataract-surgery<\/li>\n\t\t<li>de Silva SR, Evans JR, Kirthi V, Ziaei M, Leyland M. <em>Multifocal versus monofocal intraocular lenses after cataract extraction.<\/em> Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2016 (CD003169.pub4): 20 trials, 2,230 people; less spectacle dependence; glare RR 1.41; haloes RR 3.58 (moderate-certainty). https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC6463930\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li>Hovanesian JA, Jones M, Allen Q. <em>The Vivity Extended Range of Vision IOL vs the PanOptix Trifocal, ReStor 2.5 Active Focus and ReStor 3.0 Multifocal Lenses.<\/em> Clinical Ophthalmology 2022;16:145\u2013152: complete spectacle independence 83% (PanOptix) vs 33% (Vivity); none or just a little glare\/halo in dim light 69% vs 85%. https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/35082481\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li>US Food and Drug Administration, <em>Summary of Safety and Effectiveness Data, PMA P040020\/S087: AcrySof IQ PanOptix Trifocal IOL<\/em> (approved 26 August 2019): severe halos 12.6% vs 0.9% (monofocal) at 6 months; 2.4% bothered very much by halos. (SSED text opened and checked.)<\/li>\n\t\t<li>Moshirfar M, et al. <em>Assessing Visual Outcomes: A Comparative Study of US-FDA Premarket Approval Data for Multifocal and EDOF Lens Implants in Cataract Surgery.<\/em> Journal of Clinical Medicine 2023: PanOptix (trifocal), Synergy (multifocal-EDOF hybrid) and Symfony (EDOF) as separate lens designs. https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC10342887<\/li>\n\t\t<li>Passaro ML, et al. <em>Retinal detachment incidence in refractive lens exchange versus cataract surgery: uncommon versus rare.<\/em> British Journal of Ophthalmology 2025: 40 studies; about 8.6 million eyes; retinal detachment rare after cataract surgery (1\/1,000) and uncommon after RLE (1\/500). Abstract checked via Europe PMC (PMID 40015940). https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/40015940\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li>US Food and Drug Administration, <em>Directions for Use, EVO\/EVO+ Visian Implantable Collamer Lens<\/em> (label): correction of myopia \u22123.0 D to \u2264 \u221215.0 D, reduction to \u221220.0 D; increased risk of cataract; requires periodic monitoring. (Label text opened and checked.)<\/li>\n\t\t<li>NHS specialist eye-hospital patient leaflet (Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust; named here as a source only, not on the page), <em>YAG laser treatment for posterior capsule opacification (PCO)<\/em> (patient information): PCO in 10\u201320% of patients at any time after surgery; painless; 5\u201310 minutes, up to two hours in hospital; do not drive yourself home; very few complications. https:\/\/www.moorfields.nhs.uk\/mediaLocal\/adiigm1v\/yag-laser-treatment-for-posterior-capsule-opacification-pco.pdf<\/li>\n\t\t<li>Starr CE, panel case &#8220;Fluctuating vision with a multifocal IOL&#8221;, <em>Cataract &amp; Refractive Surgery Today<\/em>, February 2022: fluctuating vision traced to ocular surface disease; improved with treatment. https:\/\/crstoday.com\/topics\/refractive-surgery\/fluctuating-vision-with-a-multifocal-iol\/44645\/<\/li>\n\t\t<li>*Project files:**<\/li>\n\t<\/ol><\/details><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- List (Sources and medical review) End -->\n\n\n<!-- Call to Action (Assessment band) Start -->\n<section class=\"cta-band\" id=\"assessment\">\n\t<div class=\"contact-bg\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span><\/span><span><\/span><span><\/span><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"cta-inner pad container-fluid\"><div class=\"row\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col-12 col-lg-7\"><div class=\"cta-copy\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"t64\" data-reveal>Have a cataract or lens question these guides don&#039;t answer? Ask a surgeon, free<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"t22\" data-reveal>Send your glasses prescription and any recent eye report. Prof. Dr. Sat\u0131c\u0131, Op. Dr. Bayram or Do\u00e7. Dr. \u00d6zer will tell you whether cataract surgery or lens replacement is likely to suit your eyes, which lens they would consider, and what it would cost, in writing, with no obligation. If you go ahead, your price covers your examination and scans, surgery, medication, follow-up checks in Istanbul, a personal interpreter, a coordinator and remote follow-up. Flights are not included, and hotel and airport transfers are a separate charge, arranged on request.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"cta-actions\" data-reveal><a class=\"pill pill-white\" href=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/free-consultation\/\"><span class=\"pill-dot\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><span class=\"pill-label\">Get my free lens and cataract assessment<\/span><\/a><a class=\"pill pill-line\" href=\"https:\/\/wa.me\/4915783739465?text=Hello%20Laser%20Istanbul%20Clinic%2C%20I%20would%20like%20some%20information%20about%20eye%20treatment.%20Sent%20from%3A%20https%3A%2F%2Flaseristanbulclinic.com%2Fen%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span class=\"pill-dot\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><span class=\"pill-label\">WhatsApp: +49 157 8373 9465<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col-12 col-lg-5\"><div class=\"proof-card\" data-reveal>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"proof-text\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"t48\">3 eye surgeons<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"t22\">Your case is reviewed by a named surgeon, not a salesperson. Reply within <span class=\"ph\">{{response time}}<\/span>.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"avatars\" aria-label=\"Our surgeons\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" src=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-150x150.webp\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail\" alt=\"Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sat\u0131c\u0131\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/prof-dr-ahmet-satici-ophthalmologist-istanbul.webp 806w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/><span class=\"tip\">Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sat\u0131c\u0131<\/span><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" src=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/doc-dr-muhammet-derda-ozer-cornea-specialist-istanbul-150x150.webp\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail\" alt=\"Do\u00e7. Dr. Muhammet Derda \u00d6zer\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><span class=\"tip\">Do\u00e7. Dr. Muhammet Derda \u00d6zer<\/span><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" src=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-150x150.webp\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail\" alt=\"Op. Dr. Aysan Bayram\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/op-dr-aysan-bayram-eye-surgeon-istanbul.webp 806w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/><span class=\"tip\">Op. Dr. Aysan Bayram<\/span><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<!-- Call to Action (Assessment band) End -->\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":0,"parent":1757,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1872","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1872","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1872"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1872\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3017,"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1872\/revisions\/3017"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1757"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/laseristanbulclinic.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1872"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}