What is a cataract?

By David Mai, M.D and Chris Mai, M.D., Ophthalmology

A cataract is a clouding of the eye lens that may cause blurred or hazy vision. Cataracts usually develop as part of the aging process, but can also come from eye injuries, certain diseases, medications and genetic inheritance. Once formed, cataracts can only be removed by surgery.

What is the surgery?

Surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis with a local anesthetic. A tiny incision is made in your eye to remove the cloudy natural lens (cataract) and replace it with a clear plastic lens.

What will be the results?

More than 95% of cataract surgeries improve vision, although some eyes have other problems, such as glaucoma, optic nerve damage, corneal disease, or retinal disease, which surgery may not help.

How often should I have my eyes checked?

You should have a complete eye examination by an ophthalmologist every one or two years to determine if cataracts may be forming or if other eye diseases are present.

What is an ophthalmologist?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor with special training and skill to diagnose and treat all diseases of the eye and is qualified to provide all aspects of eye care, including cataract, laser and other eye surgery.

Our highly experienced board-certified ophthalmologists at Kapi'olani Medical Center at Pali Momi can help you in prevention or treatment of eye problems, such as cataracts.

For help finding a doctor or to schedule an appointment, please phone Kapi'olani Health Connection at (808) 535-7000.