congenital cataracts

Contact lenses for babies with congenital cataracts

Congenital cataracts are a rare but serious condition where the eye's lens is clouded at birth. Without treatment, they can permanently affect how a child's vision develops. At Eyetech, we offer one of Victoria's few specialist contact lens services for infants with this condition.

What are congenital cataracts? Cataracts involve the yellowing or clouding of the eye's crystalline lens, most commonly due to ageing. In a small number of infants, however, this opacity is present from birth. If left untreated, it can prevent normal visual development and may lead to permanent vision loss.

Why contact lenses?

After cataract surgery, adult patients typically receive an artificial lens implant. In infants, this is often not immediately suitable because the eye is still growing. Babies are therefore left without an intraocular lens — a condition called aphakia — and because the lens provides significant focusing power, they become very longsighted and require correction.

Contact lenses are generally the preferred option. Spectacles for infants can be thick, heavy, and may induce significant optical distortion. In unilateral cases, they are particularly limited due to the large difference in prescription between the two eyes. In contrast, contact lenses sit directly on the eye, providing more natural vision and improved image quality. Each lens is individually tailored, allowing the affected eye to receive clear visual input and develop appropriately.

Contact lenses are safe, highly effective, and generally deliver superior visual outcomes for these infants. Each lens is custom-fitted so the affected eye receives the clear visual input it needs to develop properly during this critical window.

We work closely alongside the team at the Royal Children's Hospital and local paediatric ophthalmologists to provide collaborative, joined-up care for babies and their families throughout this journey.

Support for families

We understand this can be a daunting time for parents. We're here to guide you through every stage — from the initial fitting to ongoing monitoring — and to make sure your baby has the best possible start to their visual development.

Cataract Kids Australia is an Australian charity supporting parents and children through their cataract journey. We encourage families to connect with this wonderful resource.