CATARACT SURGERY IN CUBA

Why Choose Cuba for CATARACT SURGERY

Cuba is known worldwide for advanced ophthalmology, highly trained surgeons, and excellent outcomes. Patients choose Cuba because treatment quality is high, waiting times are short, and medical care is delivered with precision. Costs remain accessible, and the supportive environment keeps the entire experience smooth and stress free.

Importance of the Eye Lens for Clear Vision

The eye lens focuses light clearly onto the retina. When it stays transparent, vision is sharp, colors are bright, and contrast remains stable. Once the lens becomes cloudy, images lose clarity, glare increases, and daily tasks become difficult. This is why timely cataract treatment is essential.

Causes of Cataracts

• Natural aging of the lens: Develops in the center (nucleus) of the lens, commonly due to aging.
• Long-term UV exposure: Results from prolonged exposure to UV rays or radiation therapy.
• Diabetes and metabolic conditions
• Eye injuries or previous eye surgery
• Certain medications such as steroids
• Smoking and family history

Symptoms of Cataracts

• Blurred or hazy vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Glare or halos around lights
• Faded or yellowed colors
• Needing brighter light to read
• Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions

Pre-Surgical Diagnosis of Cataracts

A full ophthalmic evaluation confirms whether cataract treatment is needed. Your eye specialist examines lens clarity, measures visual acuity, and checks eye pressure. These tests ensure that surgery is the correct next step.

Tests to Determine the Correct Intraocular Lens (IOL)

• Biometry to measure eye length
• Corneal curvature mapping
• Pupil dilation examination
• Retinal evaluation
• Discussion of lifestyle needs to select the appropriate lens type

Types of Cataract Surgery

Phacoemulsification (Minimally Invasive)

This modern cataract treatment uses ultrasound waves to break the cataract into tiny pieces. The surgeon removes them through a micro-incision before placing the artificial lens. Recovery is fast and comfort is high.

Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (Traditional Surgery)

In cases of dense cataracts, the surgeon removes the cloudy lens in one piece through a slightly larger incision before inserting the intraocular lens.

Intracapsular Cataract Extraction (Rarely Used)

This older technique removes both the lens and its capsule. It is performed only in exceptional cases where lens stability is compromised.

Cataract Surgery Without an Intraocular Lens (IOL)

In very rare situations, an IOL cannot be implanted during surgery. When this happens, the patient may use special contact lenses or thick prescription glasses. Your Cuban ophthalmology team will explain these options clearly.

Preparing for Cataract Surgery

Before surgery, the care team performs imaging, reviews medications, and gives step-by-step preparation instructions. These clear guidelines help you feel confident and ready.

What to Expect During Cataract Surgery

The procedure is quick and comfortable. You remain awake but relaxed as the surgeon removes the cloudy lens and inserts a clear intraocular lens. Vision improvement often begins within hours.

Recovery After Cataract Treatment

• Use prescribed eye drops as directed
• Protect the eye and avoid rubbing
• Limit heavy lifting
• Wear sunglasses outdoors
• Attend follow-up visits for monitoring

Services Offered by CubaHeal

CubaHeal Team

• Assist in compiling all required medical records
• Forward documents to Cuban Medical Authorities
• Follow up to accelerate evaluation
• Coordinate payment, travel, and treatment start
• Manage accommodation and meals
• Provide translation and guidance
• Ensure safety and satisfaction
• Arrange entertainment upon request

CubaHeal Field Team in Cuba

• Confirm airport pickup and accommodation
• Provide personal assistance and translation
• Act as medical advocates
• Handle medical registration
• Arrange entertainment programs
• Provide a one-time 20-hour internet card
• Coordinate visa extensions
• Serve as the main communication link

Full Patient Support Throughout Your Journey

• Medical record preparation
• Payment coordination
• Visa prequalification assistance
• Travel insurance issuance
• Travel planning
• Matching patients with Cuba’s top surgeons
• Hospital registration
• Accommodation planning including meals
• Optional entertainment arrangements

Privacy and Professional Standards

CubaHeal follows Canadian privacy regulations and protects all patient data. Our communication system ensures that every step—from travel to treatment—is coordinated smoothly.