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Oculoplastics Las Vegas
Oculoplastics in Las Vegas

Pediatric Cataract Care

EXPERT CHILDREN'S EYE CARE

A cataract is a condition where the lens inside of the eye is cloudy instead of clear.

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Pediatric cataracts, though rare, are a serious condition where the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, obstructing clear vision. Unlike age-related cataracts, those in children can significantly impede visual development, potentially leading to amblyopia (lazy eye) if not promptly addressed.

What Are Pediatric Cataracts?

A pediatric cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens present at birth or developing during childhood. This cloudiness hinders light from reaching the retina, disrupting the formation of clear images. In children, this can interfere with the development of the visual pathways between the eye and brain, leading to permanent vision issues if untreated.
Pediatric Cataract

Causes and Risk Factors Pediatric cataracts can be:​

  • Congenital: Present at birth, often due to genetic factors or infections during pregnancy.
  • Acquired: Developing after birth from trauma, metabolic diseases, or other eye conditions.

Parents should consult an eye specialist if they observe any of the following:

  • A white or gray spot in the pupil​
  • Misaligned eyes (strabismus)​
  • Unusual eye movements (nystagmus)​
  • Poor visual tracking or lack of eye contact​
  • Light sensitivity or frequent squinting​
pediatric cataract

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cataract’s size, location, and impact on vision. Significant cataracts often require surgical removal, ideally within the first few months of life to prevent vision loss. Post-surgery, vision correction with contact lenses or glasses is typically necessary. In some cases, an intraocular lens (IOL) may be implanted, though this is more common in older children.​

Ongoing care includes patching therapy to strengthen the weaker eye and regular follow-ups to monitor visual development.​

Expert Pediatric Cataract Eye Care in Las Vegas

At Meadows Eye Physicians & Surgeons, we specialize in comprehensive pediatric eye care. Our experienced team is dedicated to early diagnosis and effective treatment of pediatric cataracts, ensuring the best possible outcomes for your child’s vision.​

We’d love to see you!

Need a pediatric cataract doctor doctor? Just send us your new patient request, and we’ll email you to set up your child’s visit.

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