About Cataracts
A cataract is a condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, reducing the amount of light that reaches the retina. This clouding can result in blurred or hazy vision and, in more severe cases, lead to vision impairment or loss of sight. People with cataracts often find that colours appear less vibrant, and everyday activities like reading, driving, or recognising faces become more difficult. Cataracts typically develop slowly over time, and the early stages might not be noticeable until vision problems begin to interfere with daily life.
Cataract Risk Factors
The primary cause of cataracts is age-related changes to the eye’s lens. As we age, proteins in the lens begin to break down, leading to a cloudy lens. However, there are other factors that may contribute to the development of cataracts at an earlier age:
- General health conditions: People with diabetes and high blood pressure have an increased risk of developing cataracts.
- Certain Medications: Long-term use of medications like corticosteroids can accelerate cataract formation.
- Eye Trauma or Surgery: Previous eye injuries or surgeries may increase the likelihood of cataracts.
- High Myopia: People with higher levels of myopia are more prone to developing cataracts.
- Family History: A genetic predisposition can also contribute to the development of cataracts.
- Lifestyle: Prolonged exposure to UV light without proper eye protection as well as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Cataract Symptoms and Early Warning Signs
Cataracts often develop slowly, and many people are unaware of the problem until it affects their daily lives. Common symptoms include:
- Blurred or cloudy vision: As the lens becomes clouded, objects may lose sharpness, making it harder to see details.
- Difficulty with contrast and colour perception: Colours can appear faded or yellowed, making it challenging to distinguish between shades, especially in low light.
- Glare and light sensitivity: Bright lights, such as headlights, may cause discomfort, and you may see halos or rings around lights, especially at night.
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription: Cataracts can cause vision changes, requiring more frequent updates to your glasses prescription.
- Double vision in one eye (diplopia): The cataract can distort vision, causing overlapping/double images in one eye.
Eye Examination
An ophthalmologist diagnoses cataracts through a comprehensive eye examination. During the exam, a slit-lamp is used to thoroughly examine the eye, including the lens and other structures. Eye drops may dilate the pupil, allowing the specialist to examine the lens and retina in more detail.
Cataract tests and investigations
In addition to a standard eye examination, further tests may be recommended to determine the severity of the cataract and to check for any associated conditions:
- Corneal imaging (Pentacam) to assess the health of the cornea.
- Biometry to measure the eye’s shape and size, which helps determine the strength of the replacement intraocular lens (IOL).
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to scan the retina and detect any underlying retinal conditions.
Currently, no medical treatment, such as eye drops or medication, can reverse or prevent cataracts. The most effective treatment is surgery, which involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with an artificial lens.
Types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) for Cataract Surgery
During cataract surgery, the clouded natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). Several types of IOLs are available to suit different needs:
- Monofocal Lenses: Provide clear vision at a single set distance (usually for distance vision), though glasses may still be needed for reading or intermediate tasks.
- Multifocal Lenses: These lenses offer clear vision at multiple distances (near, intermediate, and far), reducing the need for glasses after surgery.
- Extended Depth-of-Focus (EDOF) Lenses: EDOF lenses provide a wider range of high-quality vision for intermediate and distance tasks, with reduced reliance on glasses.
- Toric Lenses: Designed specifically for patients with astigmatism, toric lenses correct the shape of the eye and provide clear vision. They are available as monofocal, multifocal, and EDOF options.
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Adult cataract Specialists
Dr. Ammar Safar
Chief Medical Officer and Consultant Ophthalmologist & Vitreoretinal SurgeonGCAA Approved Specialist Aviation Medical Examiner
Professor of Ophthalmology (Adjunct)
Brief Introduction
Dr. Ammar is the Chief Medical Officer of Moorfields Eye Hospitals UAE and a Consultant Ophthalmologist and Vitreoretinal Surgeon at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai. He also serves as an Adjunct Professor of Ophthalmology at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences and as a GCAA-approved Specialist Aviation Medical Examiner. With extensive clinical, academic, and leadership experience across the United States, Syria, and the United Arab Emirates, Dr. Ammar brings a broad international perspective to his work in ophthalmology and healthcare leadership.
Areas of Expertise
Visit Profile - Vitreoretinal diseases and surgery
- Retinal Detachment surgery
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Macular hole surgery
- Cataract surgery
- Intravitreal injections
- Retinal vascular diseases and vascular occlusive disorders
- Age-related macular degeneration, including exudative macular degeneration
- Aviation Ophthalmology
- American Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
- Medical degree from Aleppo University, Aleppo, Syria
- Residency training in Ophthalmology at Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
- Served as Chief Resident at Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
- Fellowship in Vitreoretinal Diseases & Surgery at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centre, Dallas, Texas, USA
- American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
- American Society of Retina Specialists
- European Society of Retina Specialists
- American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
- Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO)
- Arab-American Medical Association
- Adjunct Professor of Ophthalmology at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU)
- Former Assistant Professor and later Associate Professor and Director of Vitreoretinal Surgery at the Department of Ophthalmology, Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, USA
- Conducted research and clinical trials in diabetic retinopathy and age-related eye diseases
- Research contributed to advances in the management of retinal vascular diseases, including diabetic retinopathy and vascular occlusive disorders
- Research contributed to new approaches for the treatment of exudative macular degeneration
- Inaugural recipient of The Martha Wood Bentley Endowed Chair of Ophthalmology at the University of Arkansas
Dr. Luisa M. Sastre
Consultant Ophthalmologist in General Ophthalmology and Cataract SurgeryGCAA Approved Specialist Aeromedical Examiner
Brief intro
Dr. Luisa Sastre is a Consultant Ophthalmologist in General Ophthalmology and Cataract Surgery at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai, in Dubai Healthcare City. She has a special interest in retinal diseases, including diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration, among other retinal problems. She has more than 20 years of regional and international experience across Spain and the UAE, including practice at leading medical institutions in Madrid. Alongside her clinical work, she contributes to humanitarian initiatives providing cataract treatment to patients with limited access to specialist eye care.
Areas of Expertise
Visit Profile - General ophthalmology
- Cataract assessment and surgery
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Macular degeneration
- Medical degree from Universidad Autónoma Medical School, Spain
- Board Certification in Ophthalmology from Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
- Ophthalmology residency at Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Board Certification in Intensive Care Medicine
- Intensive Care Medicine residency at Fundacion Jiménez Diaz, Madrid, Spain
- PhD from Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
- Master’s degree in Healthcare Organisation Leadership from ESADE Business School, Spain
- Member of Sociedad Española de Oftalmología (SEO)
- Member of Surgical Eye Expeditions International, a nonprofit humanitarian organisation supporting eye care clinics worldwide
- Presented papers at national and international congresses
- Organised educational courses on cataract surgery and medical retina for professional peers and opticians
Dr. Osama Giledi
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Cataract, Cornea and Refractive Vision Correction SurgeryChief of Cornea and Refractive surgery
GCAA Approved Specialist Aeromedical Examiner
Associate Professor Of Ophthalmology (Adjunct)
Brief intro
Dr. Osama Giledi is a highly experienced Consultant Ophthalmologist in cornea, ocular surface disorders, cataract and refractive surgery at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai in Dubai Healthcare City.
He has more than 28 years of clinical and surgical experience in the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates. His practice encompasses advanced corneal therapeutics, complex corneal disease management, complex cataract surgery and laser vision correction. He has performed more than 28,000 refractive surgery procedures, with a strong focus on achieving safe, precise and individualised visual outcomes.
Areas of Expertise
Cataract & Premium Lens Surgery
Visit Profile - Advanced phacoemulsification cataract surgery
- Premium intraocular lenses, including toric, multifocal and extended-depth-of-focus (EDOF) lenses
- Full-thickness and partial-thickness corneal transplantation
- SALK, DALK and DSAEK procedures
- Management of complex corneal disorders
- Advanced surgical and non-surgical corneal therapeutics
- SMILE
- Femto-LASIK
- PRK and TransPRK
- Phakic intraocular lenses, including ICL
- Corneal cross-linking
- Intracorneal ring segments
- Complex laser treatments
- Corneal transplantation
- Severe dry eye disease
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)
- Pterygium
- Limbal stem cell deficiency
- Ocular surface reconstruction
- Amniotic membrane grafting
- Pterygium excision with conjunctival autograft and fibrin glue techniques
- MBBCh, Medical Degree, Libya
- Specialist Ophthalmology Training, United Kingdom
- FRCSEd (Ophthalmology), Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, UK
- Certification in Refractive Surgery, Royal College of Ophthalmologists, London, UK
- Six-month Clinical Fellowship in Cornea and External Eye Disease, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, UK
- Two-year Higher Subspecialty Fellowship in Anterior Segment, Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Corneoplastic Unit and Eye Bank, Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, UK
- Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, UK
- United Kingdom & Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons ( UKISCRS)
- European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS)
- American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ASCRS)
- Emirates Ophthalmology Society (ESO)
- Member, UAE National Organ and Tissue Program Corneal Transplant Committee
- Associate Professor of Ophthalmology (Adjunct) at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU)
- Extensive experience in ophthalmic teaching and surgical trainingin
- Presenter at national and international ophthalmology meetings
- Author of research published in peer-reviewed scientific journals
Dr. Miguel Morcillo
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Cornea, Cataract and Refractive vision correction surgery
Dr. Miguel Morcillo is a Consultant Ophthalmologist specialising in Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Vision Correction Surgery at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai in Dubai Healthcare City. He has more than 25 years of international experience across Spain, Italy and the UAE, with extensive experience in anterior segment, cataract and refractive surgery.
Areas of Expertise
Visit Profile - Corneal diseases
- Cataract surgery
- Laser Vision correction surgery: LASIK, LASEK, TransPRK and SMILE
- Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs)
- Multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs)
- Keratoconus surgery
- Degree in Medicine from the Universitat de Valencia, Spain
- Ophthalmology Residency completed through the MIR (Médico Interno Residente) programme of the Spanish Ministry of Health
- Advanced training in corneal surgery at NIIOS Eye Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Member of Sociedad Española de Oftalmología (SEO)
- Member of the Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology (PAAO)
- Member of the European Vitreoretinal Society (EVRS)
- Member of Surgical Eye Expeditions International (SEE International)
- Research in surgical techniques and outcomes, including Ultrathin LASIK, keratoconus screening, ICLs and multifocal IOLs
- Presented research at national and international congresses and in scientific journals
- Organised educational courses on refractive surgery for ophthalmology peers and opticians
- Experienced educator of surgeons in anterior segment and refractive surgery
- Contributed to the development and implementation of refractive treatments including LASIK, LASEK, ICLs and multifocal IOLs
Dr. Salman Waqar
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Adult and Paediatric Glaucoma and Cataract surgeryAssociate Professor Of Ophthalmology (Adjunct)
GCAA Approved Specialist Aviation Medical Examiner
CASA Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist (DAO)
Brief intro
Dr. Salman Waqar is an experienced consultant ophthalmologist specialising in the treatment of adult and paediatric glaucoma and cataracts at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai in Dubai Healthcare City. He has more than 20 years of International clinical experience in the United Kingdom, including consultant and clinical leadership roles across several leading eye care institutions.
Areas of Expertise
Visit Profile - Adult and paediatric glaucoma
- Medical, laser and surgical management of glaucoma
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), including iStent, KDB, GATT and ECP
- Glaucoma filtration surgery, including augmented trabeculectomy
- Aqueous shunt devices, including PAUL Implant, Ahmed ClearPath, Ahmed Valve, Baerveldt Tube and PRESERFLO
- Glaucoma laser treatments, including Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, Laser Iridotomy and Cyclodiode Laser
- Microincisional and sutureless cataract surgery
- Cataract surgery using monofocal, toric, multifocal and extended depth of field intraocular lenses
- Cataract surgery for aviation professionals
- General ophthalmology, including dry eye, blepharitis, eye pain and decreased vision
- GCAA-accredited specialist aeromedical examinations
- Medical degree completed in Pakistan University of Health Sciences, Lahore, PakistanCertificate of Completion of Training (CCT), UK
- Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth), UK
- Subspecialty training in glaucoma at the West of England Eye Unit, Exeter, UK
- Member of the United Kingdom and Eire Glaucoma Society (UKEGS)
- Member of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRCS)
- Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
- Full registration with License to Practice with the General Medical Council, UK
- Associate Professor of Ophthalmology (Adjunct) at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU)
- Former Honorary Fellow at Plymouth University (UK), involved in the training of doctors and surgeons
- Research focused on improving patient outcomes with minimally invasive glaucoma surgery
- Research using virtual reality simulation to investigate surgeon performance
- Contributed to the development of innovative surgical instruments designed to improve patient safety
- Published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, including the British Journal of Ophthalmology and the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery
- Regular presenter at national and international ophthalmology meetings
- Recipient of multiple research grants
- Co-author of four medical textbooks
- Surgical skills instructor for minimally invasive glaucoma surgery courses
- Instructor on microsurgical skills courses with the Royal College of Ophthalmologists
- Nominated for the Peninsula School of Ophthalmology Regional Trainer of the Year Award in 2019 (UK)
Dr. Suhair Twaij
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Adult & Paediatric Strabismus Surgery, Paediatric Ophthalmology, Adult Cataract SurgeryGCAA Approved Specialist Aviation Medical Examiner
Brief intro
Dr Suhair Twaij is a Consultant Ophthalmologist with expertise in adult and paediatric Strabismus surgery, Paediatric Ophthalmology, adult Cataract Surgery and General Ophthalmology at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai in Dubai Healthcare City. She has more than 20 years of regional and international experience in ophthalmology, including the UK and UAE.
Areas of Expertise
Visit Profile - Adult and paediatric strabismus (squint) surgery using adjustable surgery technique
- Complex strabismus surgery, including adjustable suture techniques where appropriate
- General paediatric ophthalmology, including eyelid disorders and watery eyes, including probing and syringing with and without tubes and developmental cataract.
- Myopia management.
- Double vision management using prisms, surgical treatment, and others.
- Adult cataract surgery phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation.
- Botox treatment for strabismus and double vision.
- Botox treatment for blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm
- General ophthalmology disorders for adults, including eyelid disorders, dry eye disease, blepharoplasty upper eyelid, diabetic retinopathy assessment and others
- YAG laser for capsular opacification
- Medical degree from Baghdad University Medical School, Iraq
- Ophthalmology specialist training in England and Northern Ireland, UK
- Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) in Ophthalmology, UK
- Fellowship of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth)
- Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow in Ophthalmology (FRCS Ophth Glasg)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Cataract & Refractive Surgery, University of Ulster UK
- Member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth)
- Member of the British & Irish Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Association (BIPOSA)
- Member of the European Strabismological Association (ESA)
- Published research indexed in MEDLINE across a range of ophthalmology topics
- Research includes medical retina, paediatric ophthalmology and oculoplastics
Dr. Hamed Abbasi
Specialist Ophthalmologist in Cornea and Refractive surgery
Dr. Hamed Abbasi is a Specialist Ophthalmologist at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai, specialising in cornea and refractive surgery. He has 11 years of national and regional experience in ophthalmology, with clinical expertise spanning corneal disease, refractive procedures and cataract surgery.
Visit Profile Areas of Expertise
- Refractive surgery, including PRK, TransPRK, FemtoLASIK and FemtoSMILE
- Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL)
- Cataract surgery, including multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs)
- Corneal transplantation, including PKP, DALK, DSAEK and DMEK
- Keratoconus management
- Pterygium surgery
- Dry eye management
- Upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty
Qualifications
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Board of Ophthalmology Speciality, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Fellowship in Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Professional Affiliations
- Member of the Emirates Society of Ophthalmology
Research & Academic Work
- Published research in the field of cornea in peer-reviewed journals, including the American Journal of Ophthalmology and Eye, the journal of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists
- Serves as a peer reviewer for medical journals, including the American Journal of Ophthalmology and Medicine
- Regularly participates as a speaker and instructor at scientific congresses organised by the Emirates Society of Ophthalmology
Dr. Fahd Quhill
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Medical Retina and Ocular inflammatory disease (Uveitis)Clinical Professor Of Ophthalmology (Adjunct)
Brief intro
Dr. Fahd Quhill is a Consultant Ophthalmologist specialising in Medical Retina and Ocular inflammatory disease at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai in Dubai Healthcare City. He has over 25 years of international experience and trained in Ophthalmology across leading centres in the United Kingdom, including Oxford, Birmingham and London
Areas of Expertise
Visit Profile - Uveitis and ocular inflammatory diseases
- Infectious eye diseases
- Autoimmune diseases affecting the eye
- Complex inflammatory eye disease requiring immunosuppressive treatment
- Diabetic retinal disease
- Age-related macular degeneration
- Inherited retinal diseases
- Retinal vascular diseases
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), University of Birmingham, UK
- Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (FRCSEd)
- Member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (MRCOphth)
- Bachelor of Medical Science (BMedSc), University of Birmingham, UK
- Ophthalmology specialist training in Oxford, Birmingham and London, UK
- Three Medical Retina Fellowships completed in Birmingham, Wolverhampton and Moorfields Eye Hospital London, UK
- Member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists
- Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology (Adjunct)
- Principal Investigator in numerous clinical trials investigating macular degeneration, retinal vein occlusion and diabetic macular oedema
- Author of 27 research papers on retinal and ocular inflammatory diseases
- Research published in leading peer-reviewed journals, including Ophthalmology, British Journal of Ophthalmology and Eye
Dr. Avinash Gurbaxani
Visiting Consultant Ophthalmologist in Uveitis and Medical Retinal Diseases and Cataract Surgery
Brief intro
Dr. Avinash is a visiting Consultant Ophthalmologist in Uveitis, Medical Retina & Cataract surgery at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai.
He has more than 25 years of regional and international experience including the United Kingdom, Australia and the United Arab Emirates. He is currently the Medical Retina Lead for Moorfields South and Clinical Director for Moorfields at St. George’s Hospital in London.
He has a private practice at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, Welbeck Clinic and Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai.
Areas of Expertise
Visit Profile - Uveitis and inflammatory eye diseases
- Complex inflammatory eye diseases requiring immunosuppressive treatment
- Diabetic retinal disease
- Age-related macular degeneration
- Retinal vascular diseases
- Medical retinal diseases
- Cataract surgery including premium intraocular lenses
- Complex cataract surgery associated with inflammatory and retinal eye diseases
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, India
- Diploma in Ophthalmic Medicine and Surgery, India
- Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in Ophthalmology
- Ophthalmology training in Oxford and London, UK
- Medical Retina and Uveitis Fellowship at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
- Medical Retina and Uveitis Fellowship at Sydney Eye Hospital, Australia
- Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth)
- Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCS Ed)
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
- Experienced in initiating ophthalmology research projects
- Experience in conducting clinical trials
- Regularly publishes research papers.
Dr. Muhammad Amjad
Visiting Consultant Ophthalmologist in Adult and Paediatric Retinal diseases and Cataract surgery
Brief Introduction
Dr. Muhammad Amjad is a highly experienced Consultant ophthalmic surgeon, specialising in retinal diseases in adults and children and advanced cataract surgery at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai, in Dubai Healthcare City. He has a particular sub-specialist interest in children's retinal conditions, bringing specialist paediatric retina expertise that is not widely available in the region.
He brings more than 15 years of international clinical experience, having completed his specialist ophthalmology training in the UK, together with fellowship training in Medical and Surgical Retina at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, and in Paediatric Retina at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London
Areas of Expertise
Visit Profile - Adult and paediatric retinal diseases
- Retinal detachments
- Macular holes
- Age Related Macular Degeneration
- Retinal vascular diseases
- Epiretinal Membranes
- Vitreous Haemorrhage
- Uveitis
- Inherited retinal disorders (IRD)
- Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)
- Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSCR)
- Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy (FEVR)
- Adult and paediatric cataract surgery
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), University of Health Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
- Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT), General Medical Council, UK
- Fellowship in Medical Retina, Uveitis & Oncology at Moorfields Eye Hospital London, UK
- Fellowship in Surgical Retina at Moorfields Eye Hospital London, UK
- Fellowship in Paediatric Retina at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
- Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth)
- British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons (BEAVRS)
- European Society of Retina Specialists (EURETINA)
- American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS)
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
- British & Irish Paediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus Association (BIPOSA)
- Active involvement in retinal research
- Published peer-reviewed research on Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) and Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy (FEVR)
- Research published in international ophthalmology journals
Dr. Ziad Khoueir
Visiting Consultant Ophthalmologist in Adult Glaucoma and Cataract surgery
Brief Introduction
Dr. Ziad Khoueir is a visiting Consultant ophthalmologist specialising in adult glaucoma and cataract surgery at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai in Dubai Healthcare City. He has more than 10 years of regional and international experience, with advanced clinical and research training across Lebanon, France and the United States.
Areas of Expertise
Visit Profile - Adult glaucoma
- Cataract surgery
- Medical degree from Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Ophthalmology residency at Hôtel-Dieu de France Hospital, Lebanon
- Postdoctoral Clinical and Research Fellowship at the Glaucoma Institute, UPMC-Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Postdoctoral Clinical and Research Fellowship at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Glaucoma Subspecialty Diploma from the European Board of Ophthalmology
- Co-Chair of the Associate Advisory Board of the World Glaucoma Association
- Member of the Associate Advisory Board of the International Society of Glaucoma Surgery
- Associate Director of the Glaucoma Division at Beirut Eye & ENT Specialist Hospital, Lebanon
- Clinical Instructor and Lecturer at Saint-Joseph University Medical School, Beirut, Lebanon
- Research Collaborator at the Mayo Clinic Department of Ophthalmology, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
- Research focused on innovative approaches to glaucoma diagnosis and management, including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), glaucoma laser treatments and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) imaging
- Published more than 35 research papers and book chapters on glaucoma
- Invited to lecture and present his work at regional and international meetings in more than 20 countries
Dr. Salman Waqar
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Adult and Paediatric Glaucoma and Cataract surgeryAssociate Professor Of Ophthalmology (Adjunct)
GCAA Approved Specialist Aviation Medical Examiner
CASA Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist (DAO)
Brief intro
Dr. Salman Waqar is an experienced consultant ophthalmologist specialising in the treatment of adult and paediatric glaucoma and cataracts at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai in Dubai Healthcare City. He has more than 20 years of International clinical experience in the United Kingdom, including consultant and clinical leadership roles across several leading eye care institutions.
Areas of Expertise
Visit Profile - Adult and paediatric glaucoma
- Medical, laser and surgical management of glaucoma
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), including iStent, KDB, GATT and ECP
- Glaucoma filtration surgery, including augmented trabeculectomy
- Aqueous shunt devices, including PAUL Implant, Ahmed ClearPath, Ahmed Valve, Baerveldt Tube and PRESERFLO
- Glaucoma laser treatments, including Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, Laser Iridotomy and Cyclodiode Laser
- Microincisional and sutureless cataract surgery
- Cataract surgery using monofocal, toric, multifocal and extended depth of field intraocular lenses
- Cataract surgery for aviation professionals
- General ophthalmology, including dry eye, blepharitis, eye pain and decreased vision
- GCAA-accredited specialist aeromedical examinations
- Medical degree completed in Pakistan University of Health Sciences, Lahore, PakistanCertificate of Completion of Training (CCT), UK
- Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth), UK
- Subspecialty training in glaucoma at the West of England Eye Unit, Exeter, UK
- Member of the United Kingdom and Eire Glaucoma Society (UKEGS)
- Member of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRCS)
- Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
- Full registration with License to Practice with the General Medical Council, UK
- Associate Professor of Ophthalmology (Adjunct) at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU)
- Former Honorary Fellow at Plymouth University (UK), involved in the training of doctors and surgeons
- Research focused on improving patient outcomes with minimally invasive glaucoma surgery
- Research using virtual reality simulation to investigate surgeon performance
- Contributed to the development of innovative surgical instruments designed to improve patient safety
- Published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, including the British Journal of Ophthalmology and the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery
- Regular presenter at national and international ophthalmology meetings
- Recipient of multiple research grants
- Co-author of four medical textbooks
- Surgical skills instructor for minimally invasive glaucoma surgery courses
- Instructor on microsurgical skills courses with the Royal College of Ophthalmologists
- Nominated for the Peninsula School of Ophthalmology Regional Trainer of the Year Award in 2019 (UK)
Dr. Ramzi Ghanem
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Medical Retina, Vitreoretinal and Cataract Surgery
Dr. Ramzi Ghanem is a Consultant Ophthalmologist with extensive experience in cataract surgery as well as medical and surgical retina including the full spectrum of vitreoretinal surgery, intravitreal drug injection and laser treatment.
Dr. Ramzi is a graduate of the University of Leipzig, Germany and completed his 2 doctoral thesis on anti-VEGF isomers in AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) at the University of Leipzig and predictors for short term visual outcome after anti-VEGF therapy of CSME due to CRVO at the University of Bern, Switzerland. He has more than 20 years of experience in Germany, Switzerland and UAE.
He has researched extensively, conducted clinical trials, published and lectured on his areas of expertise. He has been a HAAD consultant and examiner for licensure in ophthalmology.
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Dr. Syed M. Asad Ali
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Paediatric Ophthalmology, Strabismus (squint) and Cataract Surgery
Syed Ali is a Consultant Paediatric Ophthalmologist with extensive experience in the management of all paediatric eye conditions including congenital eye diseases, paediatric cataracts, paediatric glaucoma, trauma and all types of squints in children and adults.
Syed works with advanced technology and techniques. He has over 10 years of extensive experience in screening and treating retinopathy of prematurity with retinal laser and intravitreal anti VEGF injection. He has wealth of experience in phacoemulsification procedures.
Syed Ali trained and has practiced in the UK and Pakistan and has over 18 years of experience in ophthalmology. After completing his basic specialist training, he undertook a fellowship in paediatric ophthalmology and ocular motility at the world renowned Wolverhampton Eye Infirmary, UK. His training in Pakistan and the UK is recognised by the General Medical Council (GMC) and was placed on specialist register.
In addition to his clinical experience, Syed has undertaken published original research and teaching in his specialist area, including as an assistant professor of ophthalmology at the Pakistan Institute of Ophthalmology.
He is a member of several professional bodies including The Royal College of Ophthalmologists, American Academy of Ophthalmology, The British Medical Association, Medical Defense Union and Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh.
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Dr. Esmaeil Arbabi
Medical Director and Consultant Ophthalmologist in Corneal transplant, Cataract & Refractive Surgery
Dr. Esmaeil Mohammad Arbabi is a Consultant Ophthalmologist with excellent surgical experience including all types of corneal transplants (DMEK, DSAEK, PDEK, DALK, PKP), ocular surface reconstruction, complex cataract and laser refractive surgery.
Prior to joining Moorfields Eye Hospital Center, he was Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon (Cornea, Cataract & Laser Refractive Surgery) and the Lead for Refractive Services at Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom.
Dr. Esmaeil holds several prestigious degrees and certifications in the field of cataract and refractive surgery including MSc in Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Certificate in Laser and Refractive Surgery (CertLRS) from Royal College of Ophthalmologist and Fellow of European Board of Ophthalmology Subspecialty Diploma in Cataract and Refractive Surgery (FEBOS-CR).
He is a member of Royal College of Ophthalmologists, European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons, European Board of Ophthalmology, UK Cross-Linking Consortium, EYE -LAW CHAMBERS - Medicolegal Expert and Expert, Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL).
He is instrumental in high quality papers in various peer reviewed journals and numerous scientific and ophthalmology publications. He is also an examiner for the University of Leeds and the University of Liverpool and for the European Board of Ophthalmologist (FEBO exam).
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FAQ
Cataract surgery is usually considered when changes in vision begin to affect everyday activities, rather than at a fixed stage. It is not always necessary to wait until a cataract becomes advanced before discussing treatment, as earlier intervention may help avoid further reduction in vision and increasing difficulty with daily activities. At Moorfields UAE, this is assessed clinically, and the findings are discussed with you to determine the most appropriate next step.
Cataracts do not always require immediate treatment and can often be monitored over time. In many cases, surgery is recommended when vision is significantly affected or when the cataract begins to interfere with daily activities. The timing of treatment is based on clinical findings and individual needs, which are reviewed during your assessment.
Cataract assessment at Moorfields UAE is carried out through a structured clinical evaluation to understand how the cataract is affecting your vision and overall eye health. This includes measuring your vision, examining the eye in detail and carrying out additional imaging where required. The findings are reviewed to provide a clear diagnosis and to discuss appropriate treatment options.
A range of intraocular lens options is available, including lenses designed to provide clear vision at a single distance or across multiple distances. The most appropriate lens depends on your prescription, visual requirements and lifestyle. These options are discussed during your assessment to ensure the choice is aligned with your expectations and clinical findings.
Cataract surgery is a widely performed procedure with a well-established safety profile when carried out following appropriate assessment and clinical standards. As with any surgical procedure, it does carry risks, although it is generally considered very safe. At Moorfields UAE, surgery is delivered within an audited clinical system, with outcomes measured against recognised benchmarks to support patient safety and quality of care. Surgery is performed by internationally trained specialists using advanced methods such as phacoemulsification and laser-assisted surgery, following strict clinical protocols to support safety and precision.
Moorfields UAE monitors cataract surgery outcomes on an ongoing basis as part of its commitment to patient safety, quality and clinical transparency. Cataract complication rates and patient satisfaction with surgery consistently outperform recognised benchmarks. View the latest published figures on our satisfaction rates page. These outcomes are supported by clinical standards aligned with JCI and ACHSI accreditation.
This depends on the type of intraocular lens (IOL) implanted and your individual visual needs. Some lenses are designed to correct distance vision, while others may reduce the need for glasses for both near and distance tasks. Even with advanced lens options, some people may still require glasses for specific activities, such as reading or driving at night. Your surgeon will discuss suitable lens choices before surgery.
Cataract surgery is typically performed as a day-case procedure, meaning patients return home on the same day. The procedure itself usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes. Many patients notice improved vision within a few days, although full stabilisation may take several weeks. Mild discomfort is normal, such as itching, light sensitivity, or slight swelling, which typically subsides within a few days.
Your eye doctor will provide clear post-operative care instructions, including using prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. During recovery, avoid rubbing your eye and strenuous activity to allow it to heal properly. We will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and support a successful recovery.
