Cataract surgery removes the clouded crystalline lens (located behind the iris) and replaces it with an intraocular lens implant with refractive power.
The principle
This refractive power can correct myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia depending on the implant type. The surgery is performed in most cases as day surgery under local anaesthesia.
Recovery
The incisions are self-sealing and in most cases require no stitches. Vision improves rapidly over the first post-operative days.
The different lens implants
Monofocal
These implants have a single focal point, designed to give clear vision at one distance, usually far. Near vision will require glasses. They correct spherical errors (myopia and hyperopia) and astigmatism. Some myopia can be left on one eye (monovision: dominant eye sharp at distance, the other at near) or on both eyes (clear near vision without glasses).
Extended depth of focus (EDOF)
EDOF (Enhanced Depth Of Focus) implants are a new generation of lenses offering sharp vision over an extended range of distances. They use advanced optics to stretch the depth of focus, letting the patient see clearly at varied distances without sacrificing visual quality. The goal is sharp vision at far, intermediate and near distances, giving relative independence from glasses in daily life. Reading glasses remain necessary for prolonged fine near work (intensive reading). These implants have few side effects and can be offered in many cases.
Multifocal
Multifocal implants are designed to give sharp vision at several distances — near, far and intermediate. They split the light entering the eye into several focal points, allowing the patient to see clearly at different distances without glasses. However, they are not suitable for all patients (contraindicated in glaucoma, AMD…) and can in some cases cause more significant side effects (halos, reduced contrast sensitivity).
Frequently asked questions
Which implant type is best for me?
The choice of implant depends on many factors, such as your visual needs, personal preferences and budget. The pre-operative consultation determines the most suitable implant for each patient.
Do cataract implants last a lifetime?
Yes, cataract implants are designed to last the patient's lifetime. An in-office laser treatment may be needed in case of secondary cataract.
What is a secondary cataract?
A secondary cataract is an opacification of the capsule just behind the implant that replaced the lens. It is easily treated with a YAG laser in the office.
Is cataract surgery painful?
Cataract surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia with intravenous sedation. Most patients feel no pain during the procedure. Afterwards you may feel some discomfort or slight irritation, which usually improves within a few days.
Information sheets from the French Society of Ophthalmology
To read before your procedure — information and consent sheet (in French):
📄 Cataract surgery (SFO sheet No. 1A)PDF 📄 Secondary cataract: YAG laser capsulotomy (SFO sheet No. 2)PDFBook an appointment
Consultations in Boulogne-Billancourt (Ophtalife) and Saint-Maur-des-Fossés (Beaurepaire).