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Kudret Eye Istanbul

Cataract in Children and Infant

Cataract in Children and Infant

Children's eye health plays a critical role in their growth and development. In this article, we will discuss what cataract in children and infants is, its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment methods, prevention tips and other important information that parents should know.

What is cataract in children and infants?

Cataract in children and babies is a condition in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque. Normally, the eye lens transmits light and provides clear vision. However, when cataracts develop, the lens becomes cloudy and vision deteriorates. This condition may be present from the birth of children or may develop in early childhood.

What are the Symptoms of Cataract in Children and Infants?

Symptoms of cataracts in children and babies usually include

  • White or blurred appearance in the eyes
  • Eye shift (strabismus)
  • Unstable or decreased vision in the eyes
  • Hazy vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Inability to follow surrounding objects

Regular eye examinations are important for early diagnosis.

Causes of Cataract in Children and Infants

Congenital cataract can have many causes. The most common are:

  • Medicines used by the mother during pregnancy
  • Certain diseases that the mother had during pregnancy, such as rubella or toxoplasmosis
  • Exposure of the baby to radiation in the womb
  • Genetic factors
  • Some genetic syndromes such as Down syndrome, Turner syndrome or Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome

Cataract Treatment in Children and Infants

The only treatment for cataract in children and infants is surgery. This procedure is different from cataract surgery for adults. Since it is difficult to decide the power of the lens in young children, intraocular lenses are usually not placed in children under 2 years of age. In these children, the surgeon decides according to the child's development when an intraocular lens can be implanted in a later, second operation. In children over 2 years of age, intraocular lenses can be inserted during surgical intervention.

Cataract Treatment Prices in Children and Infants

Cataract surgery costs can vary from person to person and one of the most important factors in determining these costs is the type of intraocular lens to be used. The price is set after the examination, according to the child's age, the extent of the operation and whether an intraocular lens will be implanted.

Why Is Cataract in Babies Operated On Early?

Vision develops as a clear image reaches the brain from the baby's eye. A clouded lens blocks that image and development stops. Where a cataract can be left for a while in adults, waiting in a baby can lead to a loss of vision that is hard to recover.

For that reason cataract in babies and young children is dealt with early after diagnosis, unlike in adults. The timing is set by how dense the cataract is and by whether one or both eyes are affected.

Development of Vision After Surgery

Surgery removes the clouded lens, but it does not complete vision on its own. The brain has to learn from the clear image, which is why the period after surgery matters as much as the operation.

In babies where one eye is affected, the other eye can become dominant, so patching often comes into the plan. The hours and the pattern of patching are set through your doctor's follow-up and are updated as the child grows.

Glasses, Lenses and Long-Term Follow-up

Once the lens has been removed, the focusing power of the eye has to be replaced. Depending on the child's age this is done with an intraocular lens, a contact lens or glasses, and your doctor decides which is appropriate.

As the child's eye grows the prescription changes, so regular check-ups are needed. Follow-up covers not only the prescription but also the pressure inside the eye and the development of vision, and it continues for many years.

Risks and Possible Side Effects

In experienced hands, cataract surgery in children is performed safely. Because a child's eye reacts more strongly than an adult's, some conditions can occur more often; with regular check-ups, however, they are picked up early and treated.

  • Posterior capsule opacification (secondary cataract): more common in children; it is cleared with a laser or a short procedure.
  • A rise in eye pressure: can develop over the years; it is measured at long-term check-ups and treated with drops if needed.
  • Inflammation: may be more noticeable in the first weeks; it is controlled with drops.
  • Infection: very rare; it is prevented with the drops prescribed after surgery and simple hygiene measures.

Why choose Kudret Eye İstanbul for your procedure?

Over 24 years in eye care: three eye hospitals and a general hospital, a team of specialist surgeons and technology renewed every year.

  • Over 24 years of experience

    Hundreds of thousands of successful operations and a name trusted across generations.

  • The latest technology

    World-leading equipment for SMILE PRO, iLASIK and trifocal lenses.

  • Specialist surgeons

    Every treatment is performed by a surgeon who specialises in it.

  • Lifetime aftercare

    Follow-up checks and, if ever needed, enhancement are our responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

How common is congenital cataract?
Congenital cataract is a rare condition, but it is an important factor causing vision loss during childhood. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for visual development.
What happens if cataract treatment is delayed?
If cataract is left untreated, lazy eye (amblyopia) may develop and vision may be permanently reduced. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment is very important.
How is cataract treated in children?
Cataracts are usually treated with surgery. During surgery, the clouded lens is removed and can be replaced with an artificial lens or treated without a lens.
When should cataract surgery be performed in infants?
Depending on the type and severity of the cataract, surgery is usually performed within the first few months after birth. This is a critical period for visual development.
Can cataracts reoccur?
Cataract does not come back, because the natural lens is removed during surgery. However, months or years later a membrane can form behind the lens; this can usually be cleared with a YAG laser in 1-2 minutes. As this membrane forms more often in children, regular check-ups are important.

Patient Reviews

Outstanding care from start to finish. The team ensured I was fully briefed before and upon my arrival, and I felt reassured throughout the entire procedure. Jem, Dr Mehmet Ali Ozdil and Zuhal delivered exceptional service and made me feel completely at ease during my Femto‑LASIK surgery. Note, following their simple aftercare instructions is also key to recovery.
Ali SaadatEye Laser Surgery (Femto-LASIK)Trustpilot

They made the process of coming to a country where I don’t speak the language and having eye surgery (frightening enough in your home town) very easy indeed. I had a wonderful interpreter with me through the entire process every day, she made everything so easy. First class facilities, first class staff and a very convenient location.
ChrisEye SurgeryTrustpilot

A very kind and professional medical team! The surgery was completely straightforward and was completed relatively quickly. The entire team, and especially Zuhal, my patient coordinator, was always available, incredibly helpful, and genuinely pleasant throughout the whole process. She stayed by my side from start to finish, explained everything thoroughly, and always made sure I understood what was happening. The doctor worked in a very calm and professional manner, and I never felt uncertain or uncomfortable at any point. There were three fresh meals each day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and they were all very enjoyable. The hospital rooms were also very clean and well maintained. Overall, I had a very positive experience with this hospital. I’m truly grateful to the entire team and would wholeheartedly recommend this hospital to anyone.
Daliya ChadaevEye SurgeryTrustpilot

Hello, so I went to Optical Express in UK but they quoted me an insanely high price for LASIK Surgery. After conducting research on multiple different hospitals and eye surgery places in Turkey. I settled on Kudret Goz. Throughout the entire period they were helpful in answering all my questions and very supportive. They have very experienced doctors who perform LASIK surgery multiple times a day for 20 years plus using the latest Johnson and Johnson technology. As soon as I landed at the airport they picked me up, dropped me at the hospital where I had my own comfortable room. They provided breakfast, lunch and dinner. In the morning they conducted tests to check my vision and if I’m feasible for the surgery, the same evening the surgery happened. I was nervous but It lasted 5 - 10 minutes and rested in my room that evening taking eye drops and disinfect eye drops every hour. The next day I woke up and my vision had become incredibly better, with every passing hour it got better and better. Within 24 hours my vision was incredibly clear and I was amazed. Thank you for operating the surgery and truly providing a life changing experience. For the price and quality of service Kudret Goz is unrivalled.
HIBSHY SAMSADINEye Laser Surgery (LASIK)Trustpilot

I have just returned from having Lens transplantation at Kudret Eye Hospital Istanbul. I was a lone traveller who was terrified at the prospect of eye surgery even having done my research. I have to say ALL the staff at Kudret were absolutely amazing. From 1st contacting them the communication was excellent no question was too much and always received a very prompt response. I was met at the airport in the middle of the night and taken straight to the hospital, was shown to my room. I felt very safe. I had numerous test the following day and then a consultation with the Doctor who advised me of my best implants. There was always someone with me who was able to translate anything said. I had my 1st op that afternoon again I felt safe and very confident with the professionalism of all the staff. Surgery took approximately 20 mins. I had no pain and the next day was able to see near intermediate and distance although not 100% but without glasses. After further checks I then went in for my second surgery. Again all went smoothly. The following day sight had improved even more in my 1st eye and then on removal of my eye patch my 2nd eye sight was great. I am thrilled to be glasses free and my vision improves every day. I was told it can take between 1 -3 weeks for the full result. I was given eye drops for home and full care instructions. I am very grateful to all those involved in my journey Thank you.
Lesley ParkinsonTrifocal LensTrustpilot

I visited OE in the UK, which quoted £5,500 for a LASIK surgery on both my eyes. As a result, I subsequently contacted Kudret Goz Istanbul via WhatsApp, and I must say I was very impressed by the level and quality of service. The initial contact person, Cem, was very helpful and explained the process, cost (much more reasonable than the UK clinic), and aftercare procedures very clearly. The doctor that I was assigned was Dr Nail Sönmez, who was very experienced and conducted a very effective iLASIK surgery, which only lasted about 10-15 minutes, and led to a significant improvement in my vision. He was also very transparent about the associated risks involved after the operation and advised how those could be mitigated after the surgery. Although the doctor and Cem spoke English, I was also assigned a translator, Zuhal, who was very friendly and helped me communicate with other hospital staff when needed. Therefore, I highly recommend Kudret Goz Istanbul for any UK resident seeking high-quality LASIK eye surgery at an affordable price.
MMAEye Laser Surgery (iLASIK)Trustpilot

My wife and I both had lens replacement here due to both having cataracts. I have to say from start to finish the whole experience was excellent. Careing helpful staff took care of all our needs and queries. Experienced expert surgeon did the operations on both eyes which only takes around 10 to 15 minutes and is completely painless. Excellent aftercare after the operations. Excellent value especially compared to the UK. For the two of us we paid plot less than one operation would cost in the UK. In particular I would like to thank Gem and Zuhan, both of whom speak English, for their care and attention also i would like to thank Dr Mehmet for his expertise. We have been home now for a month or so and our vision just keeps getting better and better as explained. I have no hesitation in recommding this excellent hospital. Thanks for our new eyes.
Mr SullivanLens Replacement (Cataract)Trustpilot

My sister and I recently traveled from London to Istanbul for laser eye operations, and I cannot rave enough about the exceptional care we received at Kudret Göz. Despite arriving at 4:30 AM, our pre-booked transport was seamlessly ready, whisking us directly to the hospital. From the moment we stepped through the doors, the warm welcome and hospitality made us feel instantly at ease. We were promptly shown to our rooms, and the staff's genuine kindness and attentiveness completely calmed any pre-operation jitters. They truly went above and beyond to ensure we felt relaxed and comfortable throughout the entire process. Beyond the outstanding medical care, the hospital's location is a huge bonus. Theres a massive mall called the Nautilus less than a 5 minute walk away from the hospital. It has amazing food spots along with some familiar ones. Overall, I'm beyond delighted with my experience at Kudret Göz. I was truly astounded by the immense effort they put in to ensure such a seamless and positive visit, all at an incredibly fair price!!
Noman HabibiEye Laser SurgeryTrustpilot

As someone who doesn't write reviews, I feel that this is an important opportunity to reach out to others. I was full of doubts , insecurity and skepticism about this procedure. I bought into all the negatives and downsides of lens replacement surgery , Whilst doing my research . After speaking to Jem , who put no pressure on me to sell me this . I trusted and respected him . There are many places in Turkey ( Medical tourism). , who are pushy , and run clinics offering , Hair , teeth , eyes ect. Kudret goz is a eye hospital that specializes in just eyes. I did arrive nervous, But saw how professional they are. The staff were super and so friendly, From the cleaners , security, receptionists and doctors . The place was spotless and I was comfortable, even 3 hospital meals per day. I'm amazed that my results are immediate. I can see perfectly 20/20 vision both eyes . No halos . Minimal irritation in eyes after op for an hour or 2. I'm amazed at how easy it is . I flew back to Bristol and drove back to South wales late at night . And my eyes at night were spot on . I'm delighted to not be wearing glasses anymore. Which Is given me freedom and a new confidence. I ride motorbikes and can't wait to get out on the bike 🏍. Looking forward to snooker , swimming and playing football. No glasses . My advice would be not to read to much ( scare mongering tactics) i would recommend this to everyone , family , friends and anyone who wants to listen . Best couple of grand I've ever spent . Update . 1 month on perfect vision . No problems.
Shaun O'BrienLens ReplacementTrustpilot

Easy process to book appointment, clear communication throughout. The hospital I clean and well-equipped. The staff friendly and helpful. A translator on hand from the moment I arrived until I left The preparation and tests pror to the Yag laser procedure, faultless. Clear information given on each part if the process. The procedure was painless, and no ill effects and I could see clearly about 30 minutes after the procedure. I cannot recommend them enough .
Sheila PembertonYAG LaserTrustpilot

I’m very happy I chose to have my LASIK procedure done at Kudret Göz in Istanbul. From the beginning, the communication was excellent. They speak very good English and were quick to respond to all my questions via text, which made the entire process much easier. On the day of the operation, everything moved efficiently and smoothly. I felt completely comfortable during each test and step of the procedure. The doctor also spoke excellent English and took the time to reassure me with all my questions. The rest of the staff were incredibly helpful and professional, and the clinic itself was very clean and well-organized. I would highly recommend Kudret Göz to anyone considering LASIK.
Sophia WilkinsonEye Laser Surgery (LASIK)Trustpilot

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