26 March, 2025 by Dr. Hardik Parikh

Mature vs Immature Cataract: What’s the Difference?

Cataracts is one of the common causes of vision impairment, especially in elders. As we age, the risk of cataracts increases. This is the condition in which the natural lens of the eyes becomes cloudy, which leads to blurry vision. It can develop at any age due to various medical conditions and as a result of injury during an accident. 

At Global Eye Clinic, recognized as one of the best eye hospitals in Mumbai and a top eye hospital in Ghatkopar, our expert team, led by Dr. Hardik Parikh, a renowned cataract surgeon in Mumbai, ensures that every patient receives world-class care with cutting-edge technology and personalized treatment plans.

Do you know that this cataract can be classified into two types? Yes, the cataracts can be primarily classified into two types as mature and immature cataract. Through this blog, we will have a clear understanding of these types and explore the key differences between mature and immature cataracts.

What is mature cataract?

Mature cataract is the stage in which the cloudy formation on the lens is severe, and the vision is completely opaque. The patient may experience a milky or browny lens, which was once clear. Patients with mature cataracts find it very difficult to carry out their daily tasks like reading, driving, or even recognising faces. It is always advisable that one shouldn’t wait for the cataract to mature. It is always better to treat them at the very beginning stage. 

Symptoms of mature cataract

The symptoms of mature cataract include, 

• Cloudy or opaque lens: The affected lens appears cloudy or milky, affecting the vision and preventing the passage of light to the retina. The affected lens will be completely sensitive to light. 
• Significant vision loss: The mature cataract can lead to significant vision impairment. This can even lead to the complete loss of vision in the affected eye. 
• Double vision or ghosting: Patients with mature cataracts often experience blurred vision or double vision or ghosting. 
• Increased risk of complications: If untreated, a mature cataract can lead to serious complications. This includes glaucoma, inflammation, and even retinal detachment. This glaucoma can lead to hypermature cataracts. A hypermature cataract is the condition in which the lens of the eyes becomes opaque or rigid. 

What is an immature cataract?

An immature cataract is the early stage of a cataract, where the cloudy formation is not fully developed. During this condition, the vision is partially affected. It may be difficult to spot an immature cataract, and through eye examination is required. In the early stages, the immature cataract can be detected with timely intervention. The treatment should be started at the early stage to prevent the severity. Regular eye checkups are crucial for preventing the occurrence.

Symptoms of immature cataract

The symptoms of the immature catarct are as follows

• Mild to Moderate Vision changes: The vision change in the immature cataract is mild to moderate. Patients might experience a slight blurriness, sensitivity to light, or difficulty seeing in bright light.
• Partial cloudiness: There might be a partial cloudiness, as the cataract is affected in one particular area.
• Slower progression: When compared to the mature cataract, the immature cataract shows a slower progression. If left untreated, it can worsen over the age. 
• Potential Reversibility: In some cases, the immature cataract is reversible by lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and proper treatments. Regular eye checkups are crucial for this. 

Difference between Mature and immature cataracts?

• The major difference between mature and immature cataracts is the lens clouding. In the case of the mature cataract, the lens clouding is severe where whereas in the immature cataract, the lens clouding is lesser. 
• For mature cataracts, the lens becomes completely opaque, and the vision is completely affected, which makes it difficult to carry the daily activities like reading, driving, and recognising faces. Whereas the immature cataract shows a partial effect on the vision. These patients can manage daily activities with a little difficulty.
• Another major impact is the progression rate. In the case of the mature cataract, the lens is completely opaque and it is the final stage of the cataract. Depending on the medical conditions, like diabetes and trauma can accelerate the progression. In the case of the immature cataract, the stage is early, and it takes ages to develop into a mature cataract. This causes only a slightly blurred effect. 
• Due to the extent of the clouding, the mature cataract may require immediate surgery, whereas the immature cataract can be treated with early surgical intervention. 

These key differences between the mature and immature cataracts determine the approach to treatments.

Take a look at the visual symptoms of both mature and immature cataracts

Why should you choose Global Eye Clinic for cataract surgery?

At Global Eye Clinic, a top eye hospital in Ghatkopar, we specialize in advanced laser cataract surgery with,

• Cutting-Edge Laser Technology: Our advanced laser system offers precise and safe surgery with faster recovery.
• Experienced Surgeons: Led by Dr. Hardik Parikh, a trusted cataract surgeon in Mumbai known for delivering outstanding results.
• AI-Powered Diagnostics: Accurate pre-surgical planning with AI-assisted slit lamp imaging ensures customized treatments.
• Personalized Care: Tailored treatment plans to meet your individual needs.
• Premium IOL Options: Offering the latest multifocal, toric, and EDOF lenses for exceptional visual outcomes.

Final Thoughts,

Understanding the difference between mature and immature cataracts is a crucial point in recognizing and managing the condition effectively. An immature cataract causes only a slight disturbance in the vision, but the mature or hypeermature cataract is severe and needs timely treatment. It’s essential to remember that both mature and immature cataracts affect vision and require treatment. Don’t wait until your immature cataract becomes mature – seek medical attention as soon as you notice any vision changes. 

If you’re considering cataract surgery, schedule a consultation at Global Eye Clinic, your trusted partner in eye care, and experience the clarity you deserve.

Contact us today to book an appointment with Dr. Hardik Parikh, one of the top cataract surgeons in Mumbai.

Category : Cataract