What happens when the lens is removed from a baby due to cataracts?

Depends: Generally during a pediatric cataract extraction and implant is placed in the eye at the time of lens (or cataract) removal. In infants, there is still a debate on whether lens implants should be placed at the time of surgery. If they are not, then the baby is fitted either with contact lenses or glasses until they are older and able to have the lens implanted.

Will need watching: If a cataract is removed in a baby, either a lens implant is placed during surgery, or contact lenses and/or glasses are prescribed afterwards. It is difficult to accurately predict the exact prescription needed in infants because their eyes may continue to grow, causing a change in their prescription. Regardless of which method is used, close follow-up is needed to avoid losing vision over time.