What is Cataract?
Cataract is a common eye condition where the natural lens inside the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, glare, and difficulty seeing in low light. This clouding is a normal part of the aging process for many people and progresses gradually over time.
Causes of Cataracts
The primary cause of cataracts is the natural aging of the eye's lens. Over time, proteins within the lens break down and clump together, causing a cloudy or hazy appearance. Other contributing factors can include:
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Diabetes
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Smoking
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Prolonged exposure to UV light
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Certain medications, such as steroids
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Eye injuries or inflammation
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Genetic predisposition
Cataract Surgery Procedures
Cataract surgery is a highly effective and safe procedure that involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with a clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).
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Procedure Duration & Anesthesia
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The surgery is a relatively quick outpatient procedure, usually lasting 10 to 20 minutes per eye. Anesthesia for cataract surgery is typically a local anesthetic, such as numbing eye drops, which ensures the procedure is comfortable. In some cases, a mild sedative may also be offered to help you relax.
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Pain During Surgery
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Most patients report feeling little to no pain during the procedure, thanks to the numbing eye drops. You may feel a slight pressure or a touch sensation, but typically no sharp pain.
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Post-Surgery Vision & Precautions
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Your vision may be blurry or hazy immediately after the surgery, but it typically clears within a few days.
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You will be given protective eye shields to wear, especially at night, for up to the first week to prevent accidental rubbing.
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Prescribed eye drops will need to be used for several weeks to prevent infection and aid in healing.
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It is crucial to avoid rubbing your eyes, strenuous exercise, swimming, or hot tubs for a period recommended by your surgeon.
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Risks of Cataract Surgery
While cataract surgery is established and relatively safe procedure, like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks. Your surgeon will discuss these with you in detail.
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Detailed Potential Risks
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Infection (Endophthalmitis): A rare but severe complication where bacteria enter and multiply inside the eye during or after surgery, causing a strong inflammatory response. If you notice a sudden, significant drop in vision, severe pain, redness, or discharge within days to a week after surgery, seek immediate medical attention.
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Post-Operative Refractive Error: This occurs when the power of the implanted IOL does not perfectly match the pre-operative plan, causing a focus error. If the error significantly affects your vision, it may be necessary to perform a lens exchange surgery. High-quality pre-operative and intra-operative measurements are therefore essential.
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Inability to Implant IOL: In complex surgeries, such as those involving advanced cataracts or weak zonular fibers (which hold the lens in place), it may not be possible to implant the IOL during the initial procedure. In such cases, a secondary surgery, such as scleral fixation (suturing the lens to the wall of the eye), may be required at a later date.
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Posterior Capsule Opacification (Secondary Cataract): Months to years after surgery, the capsule that holds the IOL may become cloudy, leading to symptoms similar to the original cataract. This is a common and easily treatable condition. Vision can be restored to its immediate post-surgery clarity with a quick, painless outpatient laser procedure.
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Retinal Detachment: Although the incidence is low, retinal detachment is a possible complication after surgery. If you notice symptoms such as a sudden appearance of floaters, flashes of light, or a dark curtain in your field of vision, seek immediate medical care.
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Cystoid Macular Edema: This is an early post-operative symptom characterized by swelling (edema) of the retina, which can cause blurred or distorted vision. It is typically managed with medication.
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IOL Dislocation or Displacement: The IOL may become dislocated or displaced, often following an eye injury. This can cause blurred vision or other symptoms and may require a surgical procedure to reposition the lens.
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Expulsive Hemorrhage: A rare but extremely serious complication with an incidence of 0.03-0.06%. The risk is higher for individuals with uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of previous eye surgery.
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Cost of Cataract Surgery in Japan
Cataract surgery in Japan is generally considered an out-of-pocket expense for international patients and is not covered by Japan's public health insurance. The cost varies based on the type of IOL used, the clinic, and the surgeon's expertise.
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Estimated Costs Per Eye.
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Monofocal Lens: 450,000 JPY to 800,000 JPY
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(Approx: ~$2,860 - $5,100 USD / ¥20,500 - ¥36,000 CNY / ₱168,000 - ₱300,000 PHP / ₹239,000 - ₹425,000 INR / Rp47,000,000 - Rp84,000,000 IDR / ฿105,000 - ฿185,000 THB)
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Multifocal Lens: 800,000 JPY to 1,200,000 JPY
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(Approx: ~$5,100 - $7,600 USD / ¥36,000 - ¥54,500 CNY / ₱300,000 - ₱450,000 PHP / ₹425,000 - ₹640,000 INR / Rp84,000,000 - Rp125,000,000,000 IDR / ฿185,000 - ฿280,000 THB)
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Note: The exchange rates above are approximate and subject to daily fluctuations. The final cost will be paid in Japanese Yen.
Advantages of Cataract Surgery in Japan
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Premium IOLs
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Japan offers access to a wide range of advanced Premium IOLs, including multifocal and EDOF (Extended Depth of Focus) lenses. These lenses are designed to provide clear vision at multiple distances, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses after surgery. We provide you with options that align with your unique lifestyle and visual goals.
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Accurate IOL Power Calculation
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The success of cataract surgery hinges on the precise calculation of the IOL's power. Our experts utilize state-of-the-art measurement tools and a unique clinical methodology to perform highly accurate IOL power calculations, aiming to minimize residual refractive error and maximize your visual outcome.
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Read Invited Expert Articles
Multifocal Intraocular Lens (IOL) Cataract Surgery in Japan: Enhancing Vision for Daily Life
Kobe iClinic
Dr. Daiki Sakai, MD
Our Medical Concierge Services
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What to Expect from Our Services
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We are your dedicated partner throughout your cataract surgery journey in Japan. Our physician-led team ensures every step is guided by expert medical understanding, from your initial consultation to destination choice.
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Service Flow
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Initial Review: Start by completing our secure inquiry form on this page. Tell us about your situation and what you seek from our expert doctors.
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Expert Match: Based on your condition and preferences, our physician-led team will precisely match you with ophthalmology experts from our exclusive network across Japan.
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Personalized Referrals: We'll propose suitable medical institutions for your treatment in Japan. Our goal is to connect you with the ideal specialist and facility, opening the door for you to experience professional Japanese ophthalmology.
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Service Fees
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Email Consultation for Expert Match and Personalized Referrals: Free of Charge
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