Cataracts
Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing vision to become blurry. This occurs as a person grows older, though in rare cases cataracts can occur at a younger age. Cataracts can be surgically removed using a procedure called phaco-emulsification. In this procedure, a small incision is made on the eye, then an ultrasonic instrument uses sound vibrations to break up the lens, and finally the fragments are sucked out of the eye. An intraocular lens (IOL) is placed in the space left by the natural lens and in most cases the incision heals by itself. Patients can usually return to their daily routine within a few days.