Cataracts are one of the leading causes of reversible blindness worldwide, and in Kenya, they affect thousands of people every year—especially adults over the age of 50. The good news? Cataract surgery is safe, highly effective, and widely available in Nairobi, helping patients regain clear vision and return to an active, independent life.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cataracts, this guide explains what cataracts are, when surgery is needed, what the procedure involves, and why Nairobi has become a trusted destination for cataract treatment.
A cataract occurs when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing blurred or dim vision. This clouding develops gradually and can affect one or both eyes.
Blurry or foggy vision
Sensitivity to light and glare
Difficulty seeing at night
Colors appearing faded or yellowish
Frequent changes in glasses prescription
Cataracts do not spread from one eye to another, but they often develop in both eyes over time.
In Kenya, cataracts account for nearly half of all cases of blindness, according to regional ophthalmology studies. With increased life expectancy and improved awareness, more patients are now seeking early diagnosis and treatment.
In a busy urban environment like Nairobi, where clear vision is essential for work, driving, and daily life, untreated cataracts can significantly reduce quality of life.
Cataract surgery is recommended when vision loss begins to interfere with daily activities, such as:
Reading or using digital screens
Driving, especially at night
Recognizing faces
Performing work or household tasks
Importantly, cataracts do not need to be “fully mature” before surgery. Early intervention often leads to faster recovery and better outcomes.
Modern eye hospitals in Nairobi offer advanced surgical options tailored to each patient’s needs.
This is the most common and advanced cataract surgery technique.
How it works:
A tiny incision is made in the eye
Ultrasound energy breaks the cloudy lens into small fragments
The fragments are removed, and an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted
Benefits:
Small incision
Faster healing
Minimal discomfort
Excellent visual outcomes
This technique is often used for advanced or dense cataracts.
Benefits:
No reliance on ultrasound machines
Cost-effective
Very effective for mature cataracts
Widely used in high-volume eye centers
Both procedures have success rates above 95% when performed by experienced surgeons.
Cataract surgery is usually:
Done under local anesthesia
Completed within 20–30 minutes
Performed as a day procedure
Patients are awake but comfortable and pain-free. Vision often begins to improve within 24–48 hours.
Recovery is generally smooth and quick.
Mild irritation or watering for a few days
Improved vision within a few days
Use of prescribed eye drops for several weeks
Return to normal activities within a short time
Most patients resume routine tasks within a few days, avoiding strenuous activity briefly.
Yes. Cataract surgery is one of the safest surgical procedures in medicine.
Over 28 million cataract surgeries are performed globally each year
Success rates exceed 95%
Serious complications are rare when done by trained specialists
In Nairobi, access to modern equipment and skilled ophthalmologists has significantly improved outcomes.
When considering cataract surgery in Nairobi, look for:
Experienced ophthalmologists
Modern diagnostic and surgical equipment
Personalized lens options (monofocal, multifocal)
Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care
A proper consultation ensures the surgery is tailored to your vision needs and lifestyle.
Patients often describe cataract surgery as life-changing. Colors appear brighter, vision sharper, and independence restored.
Many say:
“I didn’t realize how bad my vision had become until I could see clearly again.”
No. The procedure is painless, and discomfort afterward is usually mild.
No. Once removed, cataracts do not return. However, a treatable condition called posterior capsule opacification may occur later.
Some patients do, depending on the type of lens implanted.
Intraocular lenses are permanent and designed to last a lifetime.
Cataract surgery in Nairobi is accessible, safe, and highly effective. With modern techniques and skilled eye specialists, patients can confidently take the step toward clearer vision.
If blurred vision is holding you back, early consultation is the key. Cataract surgery doesn’t just restore sight—it restores independence, confidence, and quality of life.
