Cataract – Quick Answers
- How do I know if I have a cataract? Most commonly by gradual, painless deterioration of vision: images appear as if through a dirty window or fog, glare and halos around lights at night, fading or yellowing colors, more frequent changes in glasses, difficulty reading fine print.
- How is cataract surgery performed at SwissLaser? On an outpatient basis, using phacoemulsification under topical anesthesia; surgery is personally performed by Dr. med. Victor Derhartunian. As standard, we operate on both eyes during one session; at the patient’s request, in separate appointments. Two follow-up visits in the first month are included in the price, and the procedure is performed in Warsaw and Krakow.
- How much does cataract surgery cost at SwissLaser? 11,000 PLN per eye with a premium implant – spherical, toric, or Customized – one price, no surcharge for lens type. The qualifying examination costs 400 PLN, possible YAG capsulotomy for secondary cataract 800 PLN per eye.
- Is cataract surgery painful? Modern cataract surgery is performed under local anesthesia (drops) and is virtually painless. Patients may experience slight discomfort, a sensation of pressure, or light sensitivity, but not pain.
- Will I need glasses after cataract surgery? It depends on the type of lens implanted. With standard monofocal lenses, most patients need glasses for reading or distance (depending on the lens setting).
- How long is the wait for cataract surgery on the NHS? Depending on the facility, from a few weeks to over two years; current waiting times for each hospital are available at terminyleczenia.nfz.gov.pl. The NHS covers the procedure with a monofocal lens.
Cataract
Warsaw · Krakow · Vienna · Zurich
The world gradually loses contrast and color, car headlights begin to dazzle, and glasses – though increasingly strong – stop helping. This is how cataract typically begins. The good news: this condition is fully treatable. At SwissLaser clinics in Warsaw and Krakow, under the direction of Dr. Victor Derhartunian, we remove the clouded lens and – if the patient wishes – simultaneously significantly improve vision quality with premium lenses.
Definition: Cataract is progressive clouding of the eye’s natural lens – one of the most common causes of vision deterioration worldwide. It is treated surgically by replacing the clouded lens with a transparent implant.
SwissLaser in numbers: over 25,000 procedures performed by the chief surgeon · clinics in Krakow, Warsaw, Vienna, and Zurich · Google: 5.0 (169 reviews, Krakow) and 4.9 (256 reviews, Warsaw)
Cataract – In Brief
- What it is: clouding of the eye’s natural lens, usually after age 60. Symptoms: images as if through a dirty window, glare at night, fading colors, frequent changes in glasses.
- Treatment: surgical only – phacoemulsification: removal of the clouded lens with ultrasound through a micro-incision and implantation of an artificial lens. Drops and supplements do not reverse cataract.
- When to operate: when vision deterioration interferes with daily life – no need to wait for the cataract to “mature.”
- Price at SwissLaser: 11,000 PLN per eye with premium implant (spherical, toric, or Customized), examination 400 PLN; price list. The NHS covers the procedure with a monofocal lens.
- Where: Warsaw, ul. Kolejowa 1 and Krakow, ul. Kluczborska 15/U3, surgery performed by Dr. med. Victor Derhartunian.
Lenses and Prices – Overview
| Option | What It Provides | Price |
| Premium Spherical Implant | cataract correction + spherical refractive error (Johnson&Johnson/Teleon lenses) | 11,000 PLN per eye |
| Premium Toric Implant | additionally corrects astigmatism | 11,000 PLN per eye |
| Premium Customized Implant | individualized lens (myopia/hyperopia/presbyopia/astigmatism) | 11,000 PLN per eye |
| YAG Capsulotomy | removal of secondary cataract (if it occurs after years) | 800 PLN per eye |
Where we perform cataract surgery: cataract surgery in Warsaw (ul. Kolejowa 1) · cataract surgery in Krakow (ul. Kluczborska 15/U3) · price list. Qualification, procedure, and follow-ups at the chosen clinic, surgery performed by Dr. med. Victor Derhartunian.
Basic Information About Cataract
What Is Cataract and How Does It Manifest
Cataract is an ophthalmic condition involving clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which in a healthy state is transparent. It is through this lens that light passes, which then focuses on the retina, enabling clear vision. When the lens becomes cloudy, light cannot pass through freely, leading to gradual vision deterioration.
According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, cataract remains the leading cause of blindness worldwide, accounting for approximately 51% of vision loss cases. It is estimated that in Poland alone, this problem affects over 800,000 people over the age of 60.
“Cataract is a natural consequence of aging, similar to graying hair,” explains Dr. Victor Derhartunian, director of SwissLaser Clinic. “Although we cannot completely stop this process, modern medicine offers safe and effective methods of restoring good vision by replacing the clouded lens with a modern implant.”
Symptoms and Development of Cataract
Most Common Symptoms of Cataract
Cataract usually develops slowly and painlessly, and its first symptoms may be easily overlooked or attributed to natural aging or eye fatigue. The most common symptoms of cataract include:
- Gradual, painless deterioration of visual acuity
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare (especially when driving at night)
- Seeing images as if through fog or a veil
- Need for more frequent changes in glasses
- Difficulty reading fine print
- Deterioration of night vision
- Changes in color perception (often more yellowish or brownish)
- Seeing double contours (monocular diplopia)
- Difficulty recognizing faces
Clinical studies show that over 90% of patients with cataract report gradual vision deterioration as the first noticeable symptom. The speed of symptom development can vary significantly – in some people, vision deterioration occurs within a few months, while in others this process takes years.
Age Groups at Risk for Cataract
Although cataract is most commonly associated with aging, it can occur in different age groups:
- Secondary cataract – develops as a complication of other eye diseases, long-term use of certain medications (e.g., steroids), or as a consequence of systemic diseases.
- Senile cataract – the most common form, mainly affecting people over 60. Statistics show that it occurs in approximately 50% of people aged 65-74 and in over 70% of people over 75. years of age.
- Presenile cataract – develops in people aged 45-60, often associated with genetic predispositions or environmental factors.
- Congenital cataract – present at birth or develops in the first months of life. It is relatively rare (1-6 cases per 10,000 births), but requires rapid intervention to prevent the development of amblyopia.
- Traumatic cataract – can occur at any age as a result of mechanical eye injury.
Factors Contributing to Cataract Development
In addition to the natural aging process, various factors can influence cataract development, which are worth knowing for potential prevention:
- Genetic factors – familial occurrence of early cataract development.
- UV radiation exposure – prolonged exposure to sunlight without adequate protection accelerates lens aging processes.
- Systemic diseases – especially diabetes, which significantly increases the risk of earlier cataract development (2-5 times compared to the general population).
- Tobacco smoking – epidemiological studies show that smokers have approximately 3 times higher risk of developing cataract than non-smokers.
- Long-term use of certain medications – particularly oral or inhaled corticosteroids.
- Excessive alcohol consumption – regular, high alcohol intake is associated with accelerated lens clouding.
- Eye injuries – both mechanical and chemical can lead to lens clouding.
- Chronic eye diseases – such as chronic uveitis or glaucoma.
- Previous ophthalmic surgeries – some procedures may increase the risk of cataract development.
Diagnosis of Cataract
Slit-Lamp Examination
The primary diagnostic tool used to detect and assess the advancement of cataract is the slit lamp. This is a specialized microscope that enables the ophthalmologist to thoroughly examine the anterior segment of the eye, including the cornea, anterior chamber, iris, and lens.
During a slit-lamp examination, the doctor can:
- Assess lens transparency
- Determine the type and location of opacities
- Examine other eye structures for any coexisting diseases
- Assess the stage of cataract advancement
The examination is painless and non-invasive. The patient sits in front of the device, rests their chin on a special support, and the doctor illuminates the eye with a narrow, intense beam of light while simultaneously observing it through a microscope.
Detection of Lens Clouding
In addition to the slit-lamp examination, comprehensive cataract diagnostics at SwissLaser Clinic includes a series of additional tests that allow precise assessment of the eye’s condition and planning of the most effective treatment:
- Visual acuity testing – both distance and near, with and without correction
- Intraocular pressure measurement – exclusion of coexisting glaucoma
- Examination of anterior and posterior eye segments – assessment of retina, optic nerve, and vitreous body condition
- Contrast sensitivity testing – often impaired in cataract
- OCT (optical coherence tomography) – non-invasive imaging of the retina and optic nerve
- Eye biometry – measurement of eyeball length and corneal curvature, essential for selecting the appropriate intraocular lens power
- Corneal topography – assessment of the shape of the eye’s anterior surface
Cataract
Cataract Treatment Methods
Limitations of Pharmacological Treatment
Many people wonder whether it is possible to treat cataract without surgery, using medications or dietary supplements. Unfortunately, current scientific research does not confirm the effectiveness of any pharmacological methods in treating existing cataract.
Preparations are available on the market that, according to manufacturers, may slow cataract development; however, their effectiveness has not been confirmed in randomized clinical trials. They typically contain antioxidants (vitamins C, E, A), lutein, zeaxanthin, or omega-3 fatty acids, which may play a role in prevention but do not treat existing lens opacities.
Some studies suggest that certain substances (e.g., lanosterol) may potentially prevent protein aggregation in the lens, but these are still early research phases, and their clinical application remains a distant prospect.
In light of current medical knowledge, the only effective method of treating cataract is surgical intervention, involving removal of the clouded lens and its replacement with an artificial implant.
Surgical Removal of Cataract as an Effective Treatment Method
Cataract surgery is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures worldwide. According to WHO data, approximately 20 million such procedures are performed annually. In developed countries such as Poland, cataract surgery is characterized by an exceptionally high success rate – over 95% of patients experience significant vision improvement.
The procedure involves:
- Removal of the clouded natural lens
- Implantation of a transparent artificial lens (intraocular implant) in its place
Modern cataract surgery methods differ significantly from those used even a few decades ago. Today’s microsurgical techniques allow the procedure to be performed through a micro-incision only 1.8-2.2 mm wide, which minimizes eye trauma, accelerates healing, and reduces the risk of complications.
Phacoemulsification – Modern Method of Cataract Treatment
Phacoemulsification is currently the gold standard in surgical cataract treatment. This technique uses ultrasonic energy to fragment (emulsify) the clouded lens, allowing its removal through a very small incision.
The procedure itself takes approximately 15 minutes and is performed under topical anesthesia: through a 2 mm incision, the surgeon fragments the clouded lens with ultrasound, aspirates it, and introduces a foldable implant that unfolds in the lens capsule. You return home the same day, the first follow-up is the next day, and most patients see clear improvement within the first 24 hours. How to prepare, what happens on the day of surgery, drops, and restrictions in the first weeks – we describe step by step in a separate guide: cataract surgery step by step.
Cataract Surgery with Laser or Ultrasound?
The question about laser cataract surgery often appears in search engines. It is worth clarifying the terms, as three different things are hidden under this phrase.
- Ultrasonic phacoemulsification – the standard worldwide and the method we use at SwissLaser. The clouded lens is fragmented with an ultrasonic tip through a 2 mm incision and an implant is inserted. This is not a laser, although it is colloquially called that.
- Femtosecond laser-assisted surgery (FLACS) – the laser performs incisions, capsule opening, and preliminary lens fragmentation, and the rest is completed by the surgeon with ultrasound anyway. Large randomized studies (British FACT and French FEMCAT) have not shown that this provides better visual acuity or fewer complications than phacoemulsification alone in the hands of an experienced surgeon – at significantly higher costs. Therefore, we do not offer this option as standard.
- YAG laser – the only laser that has daily application in cataract: a few-minute capsulotomy for secondary cataract, if the lens capsule becomes cloudy after months or years (800 PLN per eye).
The quality of vision after surgery is determined not by the type of energy used to remove the old lens, but by the accuracy of pre-operative measurements and implant selection. We dedicate 90 minutes of qualification to this.
Intraocular Lenses
Importance of Choosing the Right Lens
Choosing an intraocular lens (IOL – Intraocular Lens) is one of the most important decisions made before cataract surgery. Modern implants not only restore transparency of the eye’s optical media but can also correct existing refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.
Proper lens selection depends on many factors, including:
- Individual visual needs of the patient
- Lifestyle and activities performed
- General eye condition (e.g., coexisting diseases)
- Expectations regarding vision quality after surgery
- Financial capabilities
At SwissLaser Clinic, each patient undergoes detailed preoperative diagnostics, which allows determination of optimal implant parameters. Our specialists also dedicate time to thoroughly discussing all available options, explaining differences between individual lens types, and helping make the best decision.
Types of Monofocal Lenses
Monofocal lenses are the basic type of implants used in cataract surgery. They provide sharp vision at one distance – most commonly for distance, although it is also possible to set focus at intermediate or near distance.
Main features of monofocal lenses:
- High image quality – provide very good, sharp vision at one selected distance
- Low price – they are the least expensive type of implants, often fully covered by the NHS
- Need for additional correction – glasses are usually necessary for reading or distance (depending on lens setting)
- High contrast – provide very good contrast vision
- Minimal side effects – extremely rarely cause adaptation problems
In the case of monofocal lens implantation, some patients opt for so-called monovision – a technique in which one lens is set for distance vision and the other for near. This method can reduce dependence on glasses, although it requires adaptation and is not suitable for everyone.
Bifocal Lenses and Their Application
Bifocal lenses represent the next step in the evolution of intraocular implants. They have two focal points, usually for distance and near, which allows seeing both distant objects and reading without the need to wear glasses.
Characteristics of bifocal lenses:
- Two foci – typically 0 diopters (distance) and +3.0 to +4.0 diopters (near)
- Reduced dependence on glasses – in most situations the patient does not need additional correction
- Potential difficulties with intermediate vision – problems may occur with clear vision of objects at intermediate distance (e.g., computer screen)
- Possible optical effects – some patients may notice halos around light sources, especially at night
- Adaptation period – the brain needs time (usually a few weeks) to learn to use two foci
Bifocal lenses are a good compromise for patients who want to reduce dependence on glasses but do not require perfect vision at all distances or have budget constraints excluding the choice of multifocal lenses.
Multifocal and EDoF Lenses – Complete Vision Correction
The most advanced option is multifocal lenses and extended depth of focus (EDoF – Extended Depth of Focus) lenses. These premium implants provide clear vision at various distances, offering patients the greatest independence from glasses.
Multifocal lenses:
- Have several focal points (typically for distance, intermediate, and near)
- Provide clear vision at various distances
- Significantly reduce or eliminate the need to wear glasses
- May cause optical effects such as halos around lights
- Require a longer adaptation period and “learning” by the brain
EDoF lenses:
- Provide smooth, continuous vision from distance to intermediate distance
- Cause fewer optical effects than traditional multifocal lenses
- May require glasses for reading fine print or working in low light
- Offer better night vision quality than standard multifocal lenses
- Are a good compromise between vision quality and range of focus
“Multifocal lenses and EDoF lenses are a technological breakthrough in cataract surgery,” comments Dr. Derhartunian. “At SwissLaser Clinic, we offer modern premium implants that not only remove cataract but often allow patients to completely free themselves from glasses. Each patient undergoes detailed qualification to choose a solution perfectly tailored to their individual needs and eye anatomy.”
Possible Complications and Their Treatment
Secondary Cataract (Posterior Capsule Opacification)
The most common late consequence of cataract surgery is secondary cataract – clouding of the posterior lens capsule in which the implant sits. This is not a recurrence of cataract and does not threaten the eye; it appears in some patients after months or years, manifests as gradual image blurring and glare. It is removed in a few-minute, painless YAG laser procedure (capsulotomy), without incision, at a price of 800 PLN per eye. Everything about symptoms, procedure course, and recovery: secondary cataract – YAG capsulotomy.
Costs and Treatment Options
Factors Affecting Procedure Cost
The cost of cataract surgery depends on many factors worth considering when planning treatment:
Main elements affecting price:
- Clinic location (regional price differences)
- Type of implanted lens:
- Monofocal lenses (least expensive, often covered)
- Toric lenses correcting astigmatism (mid-price range)
- Bifocal lenses (higher price range)
- Multifocal and EDoF lenses (highest price range)
- Technology used during the procedure:
- Standard phacoemulsification
- Femtosecond laser-assisted procedures
- Intraoperative navigation systems
- Surgeon’s experience and clinic reputation
- Peri- and postoperative care package:
- Scope of diagnostic tests
- Number of follow-up visits
- Additional services (e.g., transportation)
Please contact SwissLaser Clinic to schedule a qualifying consultation or obtain additional information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
about cataract surgery
What Premium Lenses Do We Implant?
We work with the full portfolio of intraocular lenses from renowned manufacturers – we select the model individually based on biometry and your lifestyle, never “off the shelf”:
- Johnson&Johnson TECNIS Odyssey – new generation full-range lens (distance, intermediate, near)
- Johnson&Johnson TECNIS PureSee – EDOF with pure refractive optics, fewer light effects at night
- Bausch+Lomb LuxSmart – EDOF with extended focal range (distance and intermediate distances)
- Bausch+Lomb LuxLife – trifocal lens with full range of vision
- Bausch+Lomb enVista Envy – full-range lens with high tolerance for decentration
- Alcon Vivity – non-diffractive EDOF, good night vision
- Alcon PanOptix Pro – latest generation trifocal lens
- Teleon – European premium lenses, also in Customized variants
Toric variants (astigmatism correction) are available without surcharge – a premium implant always costs 11,000 PLN per eye.
At What Age Can One Undergo Cataract Surgery?
There is no upper age limit for cataract surgery. The procedure is safe and effective even in very elderly patients. The decision to perform surgery is based primarily on the impact of cataract on the patient’s quality of life and daily functioning.
How Long Does Vision Improvement Take After Surgery?
Most patients notice significant vision improvement the day after the procedure; however, full vision stabilization may take from a few days to several weeks. In the case of multifocal lenses, the adaptation period may be longer, as the brain must learn a new way of seeing.
Can the Procedure Be Performed on Both Eyes Simultaneously?
Yes – our standard is surgery on both eyes during one session, each eye as a separate procedure: no instrument from the first eye touches the second. At the patient’s request, we operate on eyes in separate appointments, usually a few days to two weeks apart.
Can Cataract Return After Surgery?
True cataract cannot return after surgery because the natural lens is completely removed and replaced with an artificial implant that does not cloud. However, in approximately 20-40% of patients, so-called secondary cataract (posterior capsule opacification) may develop, which is easily corrected with a short laser procedure.
What Are the Contraindications to Cataract Surgery?
There are few absolute contraindications. Relative contraindications include: active eye infections, uncontrolled glaucoma, advanced retinal diseases limiting visual potential, and some systemic diseases in the acute phase. Each case is individually assessed by a specialist.
Can Cataract Be Operated on in a Patient with Glaucoma?
Yes, patients with glaucoma can be safely operated on for cataract. In some cases, it is even possible to combine cataract surgery with an anti-glaucoma procedure, allowing simultaneous treatment of both conditions. Proper qualification and surgeon experience are crucial.
How Long Does Recovery Take and When Can One Return to Work?
Most patients can return to office work after 2-3 days. In the case of physical work or work in a dusty environment, a break of 1 to 2 weeks is recommended. Full return to all activities, including intense physical exertion and sports, is usually possible after 4 weeks.
What Causes Cataract?
Mainly age – after age 60, the lens gradually clouds in most people. Development is accelerated by diabetes, tobacco smoking, long-term corticosteroid treatment, UV radiation without protection, eye injuries, previous surgeries, and family predisposition. Less commonly, cataract is congenital or appears at a young age.
Can Cataract Reverse?
No. A clouded lens cannot be “uncloudied” with drops, diet, or exercises – no preparation has evidence for this. The only treatment is surgery: removal of the clouded lens and implantation of an artificial lens. However, cataract development can be slowed by protecting eyes from UV and controlling diabetes.
How Long Does the Eye Take to Heal After Cataract Surgery?
Most patients notice clear improvement the next day. One can return to office work after 2–3 days, for physical work or in a dusty environment after 1–2 weeks. Complete healing and vision stabilization take approximately 4 weeks – we usually wait that long before prescribing glasses, if needed, and before intense sports.
Can One Pay Extra for a Better Lens on the NHS?
Within the NHS-funded procedure, there is no possibility of paying extra for a premium lens – the fund finances only a monofocal lens. Those who want a toric, EDOF, or multifocal lens choose a private procedure, in which the premium implant is included in the price.
Sources
- Liu YC, Wilkins M, Kim T, Malyugin B, Mehta JS. Cataracts. Lancet 2017;390(10094):600–612. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(17)30544-5
- Miller KM, Oetting TA, Tweeten JP et al. Cataract in the Adult Eye Preferred Practice Pattern. Ophthalmology 2022;129(1):P1–P126. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2021.10.006
- Lundström M, Barry P, Henry Y, Rosen P, Stenevi U. Evidence-based guidelines for cataract surgery: guidelines based on data in the European Registry of Quality Outcomes for Cataract and Refractive Surgery database. J Cataract Refract Surg 2012;38(6):1086–1093. doi:10.1016/j.jcrs.2012.03.006
- Day AC, Donachie PHJ, Sparrow JM, Johnston RL. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists’ National Ophthalmology Database study of cataract surgery: report 1, visual outcomes and complications. Eye (Lond) 2015;29(4):552–560. doi:10.1038/eye.2015.3
- Day AC, Gore DM, Bunce C, Evans JR. Laser-assisted cataract surgery versus standard ultrasound phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016;7:CD010735. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD010735.pub2
- ESCRS Endophthalmitis Study Group. Prophylaxis of postoperative endophthalmitis following cataract surgery: results of the ESCRS multicenter study and identification of risk factors. J Cataract Refract Surg 2007;33(6):978–988. doi:10.1016/j.jcrs.2007.02.032
- de Silva SR, Evans JR, Kirthi V, Ziaei M, Leyland M. Multifocal versus monofocal intraocular lenses after cataract extraction. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016;12:CD003169. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD003169.pub4
- Kessel L, Andresen J, Tendal B, Erngaard D, Flesner P, Hjortdal J. Toric intraocular lenses in the correction of astigmatism during cataract surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ophthalmology 2016;123(2):275–286. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2015.10.002
- Awasthi N, Guo S, Wagner BJ. Posterior capsular opacification: a problem reduced but not yet eradicated. Arch Ophthalmol 2009;127(4):555–562. doi:10.1001/archophthalmol.2009.3
- Regulation of the Minister of Health on guaranteed benefits in the field of hospital treatment (benefit basket: cataract removal, capsulotomy, cross-linking). gov.pl/web/zdrowie
Monofocal or premium lens? The only implant covered by the NHS, without halos, with reading glasses; Monofocal Plus variant adds intermediate distance: monofocal and Monofocal Plus lenses.
Our Patients’ Reviews
Google rating: Warsaw 4,8 (reviews: 258) · Krakow 5,0 (reviews: 171). All reviews, without selection or editing, can be read directly on Google: Warsaw · Krakow.
Related Topics
- current cataract surgery price list
- refractive lens exchange – before cataract develops
- cataract treatment in Krakow – qualification and diagnostics
Related Topics
Cataract Explained by a Surgeon
Content verified by Dr. med. univ. (Vienna) Victor Derhartunian, FEBO, FWCRS – specialist in refractive surgery. Last verification: October 2, 2026.
Where We Perform This Procedure
We perform the procedure at both of our clinics – the same surgeon, the same technology, and the same prices. Select a location to view details, directions, and consultation hours:
Cataract Surgery in Warsaw
1 Kolejowa Street, 01-217 Warsaw · tel. +48 22 120 16 90
Cataract Treatment in Krakow
15/U3 Kluczborska Street, 31-271 Krakow · tel. +48 12 383 33 60
