Cataract
Cataracts, a very slow, lifelong phenomenon, are the opacification of the crystalline lens (the natural lens of the eye). Biologically speaking, cataracts result from the activation of an enzyme called kynurenine amino transferase. Induced between the ages of 20 and 23 in men, this enzyme progressively oxidizes the crystalline lens, causing light to be increasingly diffracted, resulting in glare.
Symptoms: progressive decline in vision, duller color perception, blurred vision, visual fatigue, increasing glare, need for brighter light to read, increased difficulty driving at night, especially in the rain, and sometimes double images.
Diagnosis: a simple ophthalmological examination is all it takes.
Our team of ophthalmologists is trained in the most advanced techniques and uses state-of-the-art equipment to offer you the treatment best suited to your situation. Accompanied by Dr. Maria-Laura Dari - a medical graduate of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, holder of the FMH in Ophthalmology and cataract specialist - we offer the following treatments:
Modern medical treatment of cataracts
The natural rate of progression of cataracts can be accelerated by certain toxins, such as tobacco, or by the abuse of other substances, such as alcohol. It can also progress more rapidly in the case of illnesses such as diabetes or high blood pressure, or in the case of significant dietary deficiencies.
Although there is as yet no proven medical treatment for cataracts, and independent scientific studies are lacking on the subject, it is generally accepted that a healthy diet, the judicious use of antioxidants, and good protection against ultraviolet rays can slow the progression of cataracts.
Surgical treatment of cataracts
When cataracts cause sufficient discomfort, treatment consists in replacing the opacified natural lens with an artificial lens (intraocular implant) made of synthetic material. This highly delicate and sophisticated surgical operation must be performed in an operating room, under sterile conditions, with the aid of a microscope. Usually painless, it is performed on an outpatient basis, under topical anesthesia (without injection), with the patient remaining awake throughout the procedure. The patient can leave the surgical center within an hour of the operation and return for a check-up at the doctor's surgery.
Intraocular implants
Cataract surgery has undergone considerable technological evolution, as has the manufacture of intraocular implants. Since the 1970s, techniques have been perfected, and these procedures are now considered safe and effective. Most implants are equipped with a filter that blocks a large proportion of the ultraviolet rays that are harmful to the eye. These implants, inserted into the eye through a small 2 mm incision, unfold inside the eye and remain there for life, with no need for replacement. The aim is to give patients better vision and maximum independence from glasses. These implants can correct vision disorders such as myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism. The most suitable lens is chosen after a thorough examination, precisely measuring the curvature of the cornea and the length of the eye, which is crucial in determining the power of the intraocular implant.
Our ophthalmology center offers various types of implants to significantly improve your vision. Here are the main types of intraocular implants:
Aspheric monofocal implant
By choosing the right power for each patient, this implant can correct pre-existing myopia or hyperopia. Thanks to its optical properties, it offers excellent vision quality, enhancing contrasts. Depending on the patient's preferences, it is possible to optimize distance and near vision, or opt for a "monovision" solution (combining distance vision in the dominant eye and near vision in the other eye). This reduces dependence on glasses for everyday activities. Before choosing this option, a specific test is carried out, often with contact lenses, to ensure that the patient can tolerate this difference in focus.
Toric monofocal implant
The toric implant corrects astigmatism caused by the cornea, requiring precise positioning in the eye. In addition to correcting myopia or hyperopia, it improves astigmatism. After the operation, the patient will be able to enjoy optimal distance or near vision, as he or she chooses. The option of monovision is also available with toric implants.
EDOF Implant
Unlike a standard monofocal intraocular lens, the EDOF (Extended Depth of Focus) implant offers an enlarged depth of field, enabling clear distance and mid-distance vision without glasses. However, correction is required for near vision. What's more, this implant geometry is also available for astigmatic eyes (toric EDOF) to correct all types of visual defect.
Multifocal/trifocal implant
These implants are designed to reduce dependence on glasses by providing clear vision at distance, intermediate and near. Although technology varies between manufacturers, all agree that these implants offer multiple focal lengths for clear vision at all distances. They can correct myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia. However, some patients (around 20%) may experience discomfort such as glare, light halos or reduced contrast perception.
The implants mentioned above are not covered by health insurance funds, so part of the cost will be borne by the patient.