What is Cataract?
Cataract, commonly known as Motiyabind, is a condition where the natural lens of the eye turns cloudy, resulting in blurry or distorted vision. The lens, a clear and flexible structure, is made up of proteins called crystallins. With age or due to certain conditions, these proteins begin to break down and clump together, forming cloudy areas that block light and blur vision.
In some cases, the cloudiness can even be seen from the outside. Cataracts may develop in one or both eyes and can significantly impact day-to-day activities like reading, driving, watching TV, or using a phone.
People often describe their experience with cataracts as “looking through a foggy glass.” This happens because the cloudy lens fails to properly focus light onto the retina, the part of the eye responsible for capturing visual images. If not treated on time, cataracts can continue to worsen and severely affect the quality of life.
Cataracts can be present from birth (congenital), may develop after an injury, or emerge in younger individuals due to other health issues. However, the most common cause is ageing. The good news? Cataracts can be treated safely and effectively through a straightforward surgery, where the cloudy lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). No eye drops or medications can cure a cataract—surgery is the only solution.
What is a Mature Cataract?
A mature cataract is the final and most advanced stage of cataract development. Early cataracts often go unnoticed, but as the condition progresses, symptoms like blurry vision, light sensitivity, and poor night vision become more pronounced.
At the mature stage, the entire lens becomes hard and opaque, significantly reducing vision, sometimes to the point of near or total blindness. If a mature cataract is left untreated, it can lead to severe complications and even permanent vision loss. That’s why timely intervention is crucial.
Stages of Cataract
Think of your eyes like a camera, and the lens as the part that brings the image into focus. With cataracts, this lens becomes clouded over time. Various factors can influence how quickly cataracts develop, such as:
- Ageing
- UV exposure
- Genetics
- Smoking & alcohol
- Poor diet
- Diabetes
- Long-term steroid use
There are also different types of cataracts:
- Nuclear cataracts: Form in the center of the lens
- Cortical cataracts: Develop around the outer edges
- Posterior subcapsular cataracts: Occur at the back of the lens
Cataracts usually progress through four main stages, ultimately leading to a mature cataract if untreated:
1. Early Cataract
In this initial phase, most people don’t notice much change. The lens may still appear clear, but focusing between near and far objects becomes tougher. Some might notice a faint blur or increased glare from lights.
2. Immature Cataract
Cloudiness begins to appear in the lens. Vision starts to get affected, especially in low-light conditions. Colours might seem faded. Glasses might help temporarily, but they won’t stop the progression.
3. Advanced Cataract
At this point, the cataract is more prominent. Vision becomes heavily compromised, and daily activities like night driving or reading become difficult. If not operated on at this stage, the condition progresses to maturity.
4. Mature Cataract
The lens becomes completely opaque, severely reducing or eliminating vision. Light cannot pass through the lens properly, and the patient may only be able to differentiate between light and dark. Surgery becomes urgent at this stage to prevent further complications.
These stages reflect a gradual change in the eye’s lens due to aging and protein breakdown. The more it progresses, the harder the lens becomes—making surgery more complex and vision restoration more challenging.
Don’t Wait for Cataracts to Get Worse
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of cataract, it’s best to consult an eye specialist before the condition reaches the mature stage.
At Innocent Hearts Eye Centre, Jalandhar:
- We offer advanced diagnostic tools
- Expert cataract surgeons like Dr. Rohan Bowry
- Latest technologies like Phacoemulsification and Laser Cataract Surgery
- Personalized lens options for clear post-op vision
📞 Book your appointment now via WhatsApp at +91-9875969672 or visit our website to schedule an in-person consultation.
Your vision deserves timely care. Don’t wait—see clearly again with Innocent Hearts Eye Centre.
Differences Between Immature and Mature Cataract
Cataracts develop gradually, progressing through various stages over time. Two key stages are immature cataract and mature cataract. Understanding the differences between them can help patients and caregivers identify the right time for medical intervention.
Let’s explore the differences between immature and mature cataracts based on several important aspects:
1. Cause
- Immature Cataract:
Usually begins due to age-related changes in the eye. Other contributing factors include:
- Prolonged sun exposure
- Family history of cataract
- Long-term use of steroid medications or eye drops
- Smoking or alcohol abuse
- Underlying health conditions like diabetes
- Mature Cataract:
Develops when an immature cataract is left untreated for a long time, allowing it to progress and completely cloud the natural lens. This results in severe vision loss.
2. Symptoms
- Immature Cataract:
- Partial vision impairment
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Slow development of a white spot in the pupil
- Increased difficulty with daily tasks like reading or driving
- Dependence on others may start to increase gradually
- Mature Cataract:
- Complete or near-complete vision loss in the affected eye
- Lens appears fully opaque (white, milky, or yellowish)
- Patients may experience complete dependency due to inability to see
- Daily activities become extremely difficult or impossible without help
3. Prevalence and Progression
- Immature Cataract:
Typically starts developing between ages 40 to 50 and progresses slowly over time. - Mature Cataract:
More commonly seen in people aged 55 and above. If cataracts are not treated in the advanced stage, they become mature and cause significant vision deterioration.
4. Complications
- Immature Cataract:
- Vision issues are manageable at this stage
- The person may still carry on with life using glasses or visual aids
- Risk of progression into a mature cataract if not treated on time
- Mature Cataract:
- Major hindrance in daily life—difficulty in walking, reading, watching TV, or recognizing faces
- High risk of accidents, falls, or injury due to poor visibility
- Complete dependency on caregivers
- Increased risk of glaucoma due to elevated intraocular pressure
5. Treatment
- Immature Cataract:
- Immediate surgery may not be needed
- Surgery is considered when cataract starts affecting lifestyle
- Patients are monitored and advised surgery at the appropriate time
- Mature Cataract:
- Requires immediate surgical intervention
- Surgery becomes more urgent as vision loss is profound and quality of life is significantly affected
Surgical Options for Both:
Both immature and mature cataracts can be treated only through cataract surgery, which involves replacing the clouded natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL).
The two most common types of cataract surgeries are:
- Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS)
- Phacoemulsification (PHACO)
At Innocent Hearts Eye Centre, our expert cataract surgeons are trained in both techniques. The choice of surgery depends on:
- The stage of cataract
- Patient’s eye condition
- Lifestyle and visual needs
Signs and Symptoms of Mature Cataract
A mature cataract doesn’t develop overnight. It progresses gradually, and recognizing its symptoms is essential for timely treatment.
Here are key indicators of a mature cataract:
- Completely Opaque Lens: The natural lens becomes fully white or cloudy, completely blocking light from entering the eye.
- Faded or Distorted Colours: Colours appear dull, yellowish, or brownish.
- Severe Vision Loss: Most patients struggle with basic tasks and lose their ability to function independently.
- Light Sensitivity: Halos around lights and increased glare become prominent, especially at night.
- Extremely Blurred Vision: At this stage, vision can reduce to just light perception or total blindness.
- Night Blindness: Difficulty or inability to see in dim lighting becomes severe.
- High Risk of Falls: Due to poor vision, patients may trip or injure themselves frequently.
Can Cataract Surgery Be Done in Both Eyes at the Same Time?
Usually, best eye surgeons operate on one eye at a time, starting with the one that has the more advanced cataract. Once the first eye heals (usually in a few weeks), the doctor will schedule surgery for the second eye if needed.
What Happens if Mature Cataracts Are Left Untreated?
Untreated mature cataracts can result in serious complications, including:
- Complete Blindness in the affected eye(s)
- Increased Risk of Injuries due to tripping or falling
- Total Dependency on family members or caregivers for daily activities
- Surgical Complications due to delayed treatment
- Development of Glaucoma, which can cause irreversible vision loss
- Drastic Reduction in Quality of Life due to poor vision
Cataract Operation for Mature Cataracts – Innocent Hearts Eye Centre
Mature cataracts can severely impair vision and, if left untreated, may lead to complete blindness. However, thanks to modern surgical advancements, cataracts can be removed effectively and safely. At Innocent Hearts Eye Centre, we offer two of the most trusted procedures for cataract removal: Phacoemulsification (Phaco) and Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS).
Phacoemulsification (Phaco)
Phacoemulsification, commonly referred to as Phaco, is one of the most advanced and minimally invasive techniques used for cataract surgery. In this procedure, an ultrasound probe is used to break the cloudy natural lens into small fragments. These fragments are then gently suctioned out, and a clear intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted in its place.
Key benefits of Phaco surgery:
- Requires only a small, stitch-less incision
- Minimally invasive and virtually painless
- Faster healing and recovery time
- Patients can usually go home the same day
- Quick return to routine activities
- Ideal for early to moderately mature cataracts
Phaco is performed using a high-end phaco machine and is often recommended for patients looking for faster recovery and minimal post-operative discomfort. However, it is generally more expensive than traditional cataract surgeries like SICS.
Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS)
SICS is another effective and widely performed cataract surgery, especially suitable for advanced or mature cataracts where the lens has hardened. This technique involves a slightly larger manual incision through which the cataract-affected lens is removed and replaced with an intraocular lens.
Highlights of SICS:
- Suitable for dense or mature cataracts
- Affordable and highly successful
- Slightly longer healing time than Phaco
- May require overnight hospital stay
SICS is considered a safe alternative when Phaco is not feasible due to the hardness or maturity of the cataract. The procedure typically takes 15–20 minutes, and patients are usually discharged the next day.
Phaco vs. SICS – Which Surgery is Right for You?
While Phaco is often the preferred choice due to its minimally invasive nature, SICS is sometimes the better option, especially in cases of mature, hard cataracts where Phaco may not deliver optimal results. Our experienced eye surgeons at Innocent Hearts Eye Centre evaluate each case thoroughly and recommend the most suitable technique based on:
- Cataract maturity
- Eye structure and health
- Overall medical condition
- Patient budget and preferences
Important: Mature cataracts should never be delayed for treatment. If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a mature cataract, schedule a consultation immediately.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is the only effective treatment for cataracts. No eye drops, medicines, or glasses can reverse or stop cataract progression. If untreated, mature cataracts can lead to:
- Permanent vision loss
- Increased risk of complications during surgery
- Difficulty performing daily activities independently
- Decreased quality of life
Timely diagnosis and surgery can restore vision effectively and prevent complications. Early intervention can also allow for Phaco surgery before the cataract becomes too hard. If both eyes are affected and untreated, the patient can eventually become completely blind.
Pre-Surgery Tests for Mature Cataracts
At Innocent Hearts Eye Centre, we conduct thorough pre-operative assessments before recommending a surgery plan. Common tests include:
- B-scan (Ultrasound): Helps assess the retina when it’s not visible due to an opaque lens.
- Corneal Specular Microscopy: Evaluates corneal health, especially important in mature cataracts where lens removal may exert more pressure on the eye.
These tests allow our ophthalmologists to safely plan and execute cataract surgery even in challenging cases.
Cataract Treatment at Innocent Hearts Eye Centre, Jalandhar
As a trusted name in eye care, Innocent Hearts Eye Centre is widely recognised as the best eye hospital in Jalandhar, Punjab for safe and successful cataract surgeries. We specialise in advanced Phaco and SICS procedures, offering treatment with state-of-the-art technology, modern operation theatres, and a team of highly experienced cataract surgeons. Patients can choose from a wide range of types of cataract lenses, including both Indian and imported intraocular lenses, based on their needs and doctor’s recommendation.
We are committed to making quality eye care accessible to all, with cataract surgery packages ranging from ₹12,000 to ₹65,000 per eye, depending on the procedure and lens selected. The cost of lenses varies based on the brand and type—monofocal, multifocal, toric, or premium lenses are all available. Whether you’re considering Phaco surgery for early-stage cataracts or require SICS for mature cataracts, our personalised care ensures the best possible outcomes. Thousands of patients have regained clear vision and independence through our expert-led cataract treatments.
Don’t ignore mature cataracts. Treat them in time and protect your vision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mature Cataracts (FAQs)
Q1. Is a mature cataract curable?
Yes, mature cataracts can be effectively treated with cataract surgery. It’s a safe, painless, and stitch-less procedure. Regardless of how advanced the cataract is, surgery can restore vision successfully in most cases.
Q2. What is a mature cataract?
A mature cataract refers to the most advanced stage of cataract, where the eye’s natural lens becomes completely opaque. This prevents light from passing through, making vision extremely blurry or even completely blocked. People with mature cataracts often struggle with basic daily tasks like reading, walking, or recognising faces—especially if both eyes are affected.
Q3. How long does it take for a cataract to mature?
Cataracts usually develop slowly over the years, especially due to ageing. However, in some cases, cataracts can mature faster due to eye injuries, diabetes, or other health conditions.
Q4. What is the risk of leaving a mature cataract untreated?
Leaving a mature cataract untreated can result in permanent vision loss, blindness in the affected eye, and serious complications like glaucoma due to increased eye pressure. In some cases, the cataract may even rupture, leading to further damage inside the eye.
Q5. What are the symptoms of a mature cataract?
Symptoms of a mature cataract include severely blurred or cloudy vision, extreme sensitivity to light or glare, seeing halos around lights, difficulty seeing in low-light or at night, and dull or yellow-tinted colour perception. In advanced stages, complete blindness may occur.
Q6. What happens if cataracts are not removed?
If cataracts are not removed in time, vision will continue to deteriorate, making daily tasks like driving, reading, or using electronic devices increasingly difficult. This gradual vision loss can severely impact the patient’s quality of life and may eventually lead to complete blindness.
Q7. Why is Phaco surgery not preferred for mature cataracts?
While Phacoemulsification (PHACO) is a modern and widely used cataract surgery technique, it is not always suitable for very mature or hard cataracts. That’s because the dense lens becomes difficult to break with ultrasound, which can increase the risk of complications. In such cases, doctors often recommend Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS) instead.
Q8. Can a person see through a mature cataract?
In most cases, vision becomes severely impaired with mature cataracts. Patients often cannot see clearly or distinguish shapes and colours, and in many cases, vision is reduced to complete darkness in the affected eye.
Q9. Are mature cataracts difficult to remove?
Yes, mature cataracts are thicker and harder, which makes them more challenging to remove using modern techniques like Phaco. That’s why eye surgeons often opt for SICS, a manual surgical technique that’s better suited for removing advanced cataracts safely.
Q10. What happens if mature cataracts are ignored?
If mature cataracts are ignored, they can lead to complete blindness in one or both eyes, forcing the patient to depend on others for daily activities. The risk of developing glaucoma or other serious complications also increases, ultimately resulting in a poor quality of life and emotional distress.
Don’t Delay Cataract Treatment!
Cataracts cannot be treated with medicines or eye drops. Surgery is the only effective solution. If you or a loved one is showing signs of mature cataracts, consult with an experienced eye specialist at Innocent Hearts Eye Centre, Jalandhar.
Our team will guide you on the best treatment option based on the stage of your cataract. We offer both PHACO and SICS surgeries with advanced lens implant options to suit every budget and requirement.
📞 Have questions? Need help?
Call or WhatsApp us at +91-9875969672
📅 Book your appointment with our cataract specialist today.
Don’t let vision problems hold you back from living your life!
Disclaimer: This blog is for general awareness. For proper diagnosis and treatment, consult your eye doctor. Only a qualified eye specialist can recommend the most suitable treatment after a detailed eye examination.