Vision has become cloudy
A veil, fog or gradually reduced clarity may be associated with cataract, but similar symptoms occur in other diseases, so an examination is needed.
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About the service
Cataract treatment replaces the cloudy natural lens with an artificial lens. The operation and IOL are selected after examination and discussion of expected vision.
Who the service is for
Glare and bright light cause discomfort
Oncoming headlights, lamps or sunlight may cause marked discomfort and reduce visual quality.
Glasses no longer help as before
Frequent prescription changes or inability to regain previous clarity with glasses are reasons to examine the lens and other eye structures.
Glasses cannot provide the required visual quality
If optical correction no longer provides acceptable visual function, the doctor assesses the benefit of surgery.
Cataract interferes with monitoring other eye diseases
Dense clouding can make retinal examination or necessary treatment of other eye conditions difficult.
Macular region
Macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and other retinal diseases can limit final visual acuity.
Glaucoma and optic-nerve health
Lens replacement removes the cataract but does not restore damage to the optic nerve or retina.
Cornea and astigmatism
Corneal curvature and transparency affect IOL calculations and visual quality after surgery.
Previous eye surgery
Laser vision correction, vitreoretinal surgery and other procedures may alter the calculations and surgical plan.
Diabetes
Retinal health and systemic disease control need assessment because diabetic disease can affect the prognosis and postoperative follow-up.
Glaucoma
Cataract surgery is sometimes combined with glaucoma surgery or requires separate intraocular-pressure monitoring.
Weak lens-supporting ligaments
Additional fixation, a capsular tension ring or another surgical approach may be needed.
Very dense or complicated cataract
The surgeon assesses complexity and additional risks in advance to select a safe technique and consumables.
Realistic expectations
Comprehensive diagnostics are needed before surgery. Cataract may be the main cause of reduced vision, but retinal, optic-nerve or corneal disease may coexist. In such cases, cataract removal eliminates the cloudy lens but does not guarantee the visual acuity the patient expects.
It is harder to see at dusk
Reduced contrast and night vision can significantly affect driving and orientation in low light.
Cataract interferes with daily life
Surgery is considered when reduced vision makes reading, work, driving, mobility, household tasks or other important activities difficult.
Complications develop
In some situations, cataract can be associated with raised intraocular pressure or other complications that affect the timing and surgical approach.
Cataract and lens condition
Preparing for cataract surgery
Benefits and risks
As with any intraocular operation, complications are possible.
When urgent care is needed
The doctor must discuss individual risks, the possible need for glasses after surgery, the features of the selected IOL and symptoms that require urgent medical attention after treatment.
Limitations and safety
As with any intraocular operation, complications are possible. The doctor must discuss individual risks, the possible need for glasses after surgery, the features of the selected IOL and symptoms that require urgent medical attention after treatment.
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Stages
Stage 1
Diagnostics and prognosis
The doctor confirms the cataract and assesses visual acuity and quality, intraocular pressure, and the anterior and posterior segments.
Stage 2
Biometry and IOL selection
Eye length and corneal parameters are measured and IOL power is calculated.
Stage 3
Preoperative preparation
The patient receives a list of tests and instructions on medications, food and preparation on the day of surgery.
Stage 4
Surgery and IOL implantation
The opaque lens is fragmented and removed through a small surgical opening.
Stage 5
Monitoring and recovery
After surgery, the doctor assesses IOL position and the eye and prescribes drops and temporary restrictions.
Service benefits
Clearer vision
Removing the cloudy lens can improve vision within the capabilities of the retina and optic nerve.
Contrast and colour perception
After the cloudy lens is treated, objects may appear clearer and colours easier to distinguish.
Correction with an IOL
The artificial lens is selected according to eye health and the patient's visual needs.
Treatment tailored to eye health
Diagnostic assessment helps plan surgery and estimate the possible outcome when other eye conditions are present.
Methods comparison
Criterion
Monofocal
Monofocal toric
EDOF / extended focus
Multifocal / trifocal
Main optical purpose
One main focus
One main focus + corneal astigmatism correction
Extended range, particularly distance and intermediate
Several focal distances, including distance and near
Distance vision
High potential when targeted for distance
High potential when targeted for distance
High potential
High potential
Intermediate vision
Limited; depends on target and eye
Limited; depends on target and eye
A strength
Usually good
Near vision without glasses
Glasses usually needed
Glasses usually needed
May be better than monofocal, but fine print may require glasses
Greatest potential to reduce dependence on near glasses
Corneal astigmatism correction
No, unless toric
Yes
Only in a toric version
Only in a toric version
Glare/halos related to IOL design
Usually lower
Usually lower
Possible; depend on design
More often discussed as an optical trade-off
Retinal and optic-nerve requirements
Usually most versatile
Usually most versatile
Careful selection required
Especially careful selection required
Dependence on accurate calculation and centration
High
Very high because of cylinder axis
High
High
Monofocal
Main optical purpose
Distance vision
Intermediate vision
Near vision without glasses
Corneal astigmatism correction
Glare/halos related to IOL design
Retinal and optic-nerve requirements
Dependence on accurate calculation and centration
One main focus
High potential when targeted for distance
Limited; depends on target and eye
Glasses usually needed
No, unless toric
Usually lower
Usually most versatile
High
One main focus + corneal astigmatism correction
High potential when targeted for distance
Limited; depends on target and eye
Glasses usually needed
Yes
Usually lower
Usually most versatile
Very high because of cylinder axis
Extended range, particularly distance and intermediate
High potential
A strength
May be better than monofocal, but fine print may require glasses
Only in a toric version
Possible; depend on design
Careful selection required
High
Several focal distances, including distance and near
High potential
Usually good
Greatest potential to reduce dependence on near glasses
Only in a toric version
More often discussed as an optical trade-off
Especially careful selection required
High
Service options
Monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs)
A monofocal IOL has one principal optical focus.
Learn moreToric intraocular lenses (IOLs)
A toric IOL replaces the lens while correcting corneal astigmatism.
Learn moreMultifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs)
A multifocal IOL provides several optical foci to reduce dependence on glasses at different distances.
Learn more
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Find out whether you need cataract surgery Start with diagnostics. The doctor will determine whether cataract is actually causing the visual loss, assess the retina and optic nerve, and explain which treatment and IOL options may be considered for you.
Procedure prices
Service name
Price
Uncomplicated cataract phacoemulsification with IOL (per eye)
from 366 000 ₸
Cataract phacoemulsification with TORIC Alcon (per eye)
from 397 000 ₸
Complicated cataract phacoemulsification with IOL (per eye)
from 380 000 ₸
Complicated cataract phacoemulsification with Clareon (per eye)
from 374 000 ₸
Phacoemulsification with multifocal / toric IOL (per eye)
from 405 000 ₸
Our doctors
A team of experienced doctors across specialties.
Experience: 34 years
Head
Dzhumataeva Zaure Asylkhanovna
Doctor of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor; Highest-category ophthalmologist
Experience: 22 years
Head
Orazbekov Lukpan Nurlanovich
Candidate of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor; Highest-category ophthalmologist
Experience: 25 years
Head
Aubakirova Alua Sauytbekovna
Candidate of Medical Sciences; Highest-category ophthalmologist
Experience: 32 years
Sabyrbaev Nurlan Berdauletovich
Candidate of Medical Sciences; Highest-category ophthalmologist
Experience: 27 years
Head
Tleubaeva Gulmira Bakhytovna
Candidate of Medical Sciences; Highest-category ophthalmologist
Experience: 26 years
Ophthalmologist
Tuletova Aygerim Serikbaevna
Candidate of Medical Sciences; Highest-category ophthalmologist
Experience: 8 years
Head
Ruslanuly Qayrat
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Experience: 3 years
Ophthalmologist
Omarova Kymbat Omarovna
Master’s Student in Public Health
Experience: 24 years
Ophthalmologist (pediatric consultations)
Abakaeva Zhanna Bakirzhanovna
Highest-category ophthalmologist
Experience: 17 years
Ophthalmologist
Dzhapparkhanova Asel Urazovna
Highest-category ophthalmologist
What is a cataract, and how is it treated?
A cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens, the transparent natural lens inside the eye. The clouded lens transmits and focuses light less effectively, making images blurred and gradually impairing vision.
What are the symptoms?
- Cloudy or hazy vision.
- Reduced contrast and difficulty distinguishing colors.
- Glare from headlights and lamps.
- More frequent changes in glasses without restoring previous visual clarity.
What causes cataracts?
Cataracts most commonly develop with age. They can also result from eye injury, diabetes, prolonged use of certain medications, or inflammatory eye diseases. Cataracts may also be congenital.
How are cataracts treated?
Medications and eye drops cannot restore transparency to an already clouded lens. The only way to remove a cataract is to surgically replace the natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
The main modern method is phacoemulsification: the clouded lens is removed through a small surgical incision and replaced with an IOL.
When is surgery needed?
If a cataract interferes with reading, driving, work, or other everyday activities, the clinician may recommend surgery.
There is no need to wait for the cataract to become “ripe.” The decision considers its impact on vision and daily life, along with the risks and expected benefits for the individual patient.
How is the artificial lens selected at KazRIED?
Before surgery, KazRIED performs a diagnostic assessment and calculates the required IOL power.
The IOL type is selected according to the eye’s anatomy, astigmatism, the condition of the retina and optic nerve, the patient’s usual visual demands, and their expectations.
Treatment option details
Cataract assessment
Assessment confirms whether visual loss is caused by clouding of the lens, evaluates other eye structures and provides information for surgical planning.
Phacoemulsification
The main surgical method for cataract removal: the cloudy lens is fragmented and removed, then an IOL is implanted.
Complex cataract treatment
A separate pathway for patients whose operation requires additional planning because of dense cataract, weak lens-supporting ligaments, coexisting eye disease or other risk factors.
Posterior capsule opacification
Clouding of the posterior capsule after previous surgery can reduce vision again. After examination, the doctor may recommend YAG laser capsulotomy.
Intraocular lens (IOL) selection
IOL selection affects the optical target of surgery, the need for glasses after treatment and the possibility of correcting astigmatism.
Further procedure details
Diagnostics and prognosis
The doctor confirms the cataract and assesses visual acuity and quality, intraocular pressure, and the anterior and posterior segments. OCT, ultrasound and other examinations may be ordered to establish what limits vision and what outcome can be expected.
Biometry and IOL selection
Eye length and corneal parameters are measured and IOL power is calculated. The surgeon discusses the planned main focal distance and whether a toric, EDOF or multifocal option is needed.
Preoperative preparation
The patient receives a list of tests and instructions on medications, food and preparation on the day of surgery. Coexisting diseases and medications must be discussed with the doctor.
Surgery and IOL implantation
The opaque crystalline lens is fragmented and removed through a small surgical opening. A calculated IOL is implanted into the retained capsule where possible. Technique depends on the eye's condition.
Monitoring and recovery
After surgery, the doctor assesses IOL position and the eye and prescribes drops and temporary restrictions. Reviews track healing and detect complications promptly.
IOL power calculation and preparation for surgery
Biometry and keratometry are used to calculate the optical power of the artificial lens and plan the refractive outcome.
The surgeon and, when necessary, an anesthesiologist review test results, coexisting medical conditions, and regularly taken medications.
The medication regimen is prescribed individually. Do not use someone else’s eye drops or previously prescribed drops without consulting your clinician.
If both eyes have cataracts
The timing of treatment for the second eye is discussed separately after assessing the first eye and the patient’s visual needs.
What should be considered when comparing IOLs?
The comparison describes classes of intraocular lenses (IOLs), rather than specific models. Toric optics can be combined with different focal designs and do not represent a separate level of lens quality.
How is an artificial lens selected for cataract surgery?
An intraocular lens (IOL) is selected according to the patient’s visual needs and the condition of the eye.
The key question is which optical outcome the individual patient needs and whether the eye’s condition allows the selected lens design to be used safely.
How do IOL options differ?
- A monofocal IOL usually provides one main focal point and remains a versatile option for many patients.
- A toric component is needed for certain cases of corneal astigmatism.
- Extended depth of focus (EDOF) IOLs broaden the range of clear vision, particularly at intermediate distances.
- Multifocal and trifocal IOLs may reduce dependence on glasses to a greater extent across different distances, but require careful patient selection and discussion of possible glare, halos, and other optical effects.
What is assessed before surgery?
The clinician assesses not only the cataract, but also the cornea, macula, optic nerve, astigmatism, and previous surgeries.
The patient’s usual activities are also considered: reading, using a phone or computer, driving, and tasks involving distance or near vision.
Stages of cataract treatment
Related information: Astigmatism.
Facts and offers
Kazakhstan’s first specialized ophthalmology institute, operating since 1933.
Modern diagnostics and surgery using world-class equipment.
Leading ophthalmologists in Kazakhstan, scientists and experienced surgeons.
More than 30,000 operations and around 270,000 consultations annually.
Kazakhstan’s first specialized ophthalmology institute, operating since 1933.
Modern diagnostics and surgery using world-class equipment.
Leading ophthalmologists in Kazakhstan, scientists and experienced surgeons.
More than 30,000 operations and around 270,000 consultations annually.
Kazakhstan’s first specialized ophthalmology institute, operating since 1933.
Modern diagnostics and surgery using world-class equipment.
Leading ophthalmologists in Kazakhstan, scientists and experienced surgeons.
More than 30,000 operations and around 270,000 consultations annually.
Frequently asked questions
Can cataracts be treated without surgery?
No medicine or eye drop can currently restore transparency to a cataractous natural lens. When cataract significantly affects vision and daily activities, the main treatment is surgical removal of the cloudy lens with IOL implantation.
Do I need to wait until the cataract is mature?
No. Modern cataract care does not require waiting for an advanced or “mature” cataract. Timing is based on visual function, daily activities, ocular status, surgical risks and the patient’s needs.
How do I know when I need cataract surgery?
Surgery may be considered when cataract interferes with reading, work, driving, recognizing faces or other important activities and changing spectacles no longer provides adequate vision. The final decision follows an eye examination.
What is cataract phacoemulsification?
Phacoemulsification is a modern cataract technique in which the cloudy lens is fragmented with ultrasound and removed through a small incision. An artificial intraocular lens is then usually implanted in the capsular bag.
Is cataract surgery painful?
Local anaesthesia is commonly used. Patients may see light and feel touch or pressure, but significant pain is not normally expected. The anaesthetic approach depends on the patient and surgical plan.
How long does cataract surgery take?
Duration depends on cataract density, ocular anatomy and case complexity. The surgical stage is generally much shorter than the total time spent at the clinic, which also includes preparation and postoperative assessment.
Will I need to stay in hospital after cataract surgery?
Many routine cataract operations are performed as day surgery without an overnight stay. Admission depends on the patient’s medical condition, anaesthesia and surgical complexity.
When will my vision improve after cataract surgery?
Many patients notice improvement during the first days, although vision may continue to change for some time. Recovery and final vision depend on the cornea, retina, optic nerve, IOL and other ocular factors.
Will I be completely free from glasses after surgery?
Not necessarily. It depends on the IOL, pre-existing astigmatism, ocular health and visual goals. Glasses may still be needed for near, distance or specific activities even after successful surgery.
Which artificial lens is best?
There is no universally best IOL. Selection depends on ocular biometry, astigmatism, corneal, macular and optic-nerve health, lifestyle and the distances at which the patient would like to reduce spectacle dependence.