Marathi: जन्मजात आणि बालपणातील मोतीबिंदू (पांढरा मोतिया)
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which is normally crystal clear. While most people associate cataracts with old age, babies can be born with one (congenital cataract) or develop one during childhood. Because a child’s brain is still learning to see, even a partial cataract can block visual development and cause permanent amblyopia (lazy eye) — which is why childhood cataract is treated with far greater urgency than in adults.
Signs to Watch For
- A white, grey or cloudy pupil, instead of a clear black one.
- The baby not fixing or following faces and objects as expected.
- A wandering or shaky eye movement (nystagmus).
- A new squint, or holding objects very close.
Why Timing Is Everything
For a dense cataract present from birth, surgery is often needed within the first few weeks to months of life to allow the visual pathways to develop. Delay can cause irreversible amblyopia even after a perfect operation. Treatment includes removing the cloudy lens and then restoring focus — with an intraocular lens implant, special contact lenses or glasses depending on the child’s age — followed by amblyopia therapy (patching) and close follow-up. At Suraj Eye Institute, our paediatric cataract team manages the full pathway from microsurgery to visual rehabilitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why operate so early — can’t we wait until the child is older?
Unlike adults, a child’s brain is still learning to see. A cataract left in place blocks this development and causes permanent lazy eye. Early surgery gives the visual system its best chance.
Will my child get a lens implant like adults do?
Often yes, but the decision depends on age. In very young infants we may use contact lenses or glasses first, and implant a lens later. Your surgeon will advise the safest approach.
Is the surgery safe in such a small eye?
Paediatric cataract surgery is highly specialised but very effective in experienced hands. The main effort afterwards is consistent amblyopia treatment and follow-up to build vision.
Will my child see normally after surgery?
Many children achieve good, useful vision — but it depends on how early treatment began and how diligently glasses/contact lenses and patching are followed afterward.
Childhood cataract needs early action. Consult our paediatric team at Suraj Eye Institute.
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