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Vision Impairment·University Hills, Orange County

Cataracts Treatment in University Hills, California

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. · Updated February 2026

A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of your eye. Cataracts develop slowly and eventually interfere with your vision. Advanced cataract surgery with premium lens implants available.

University Hills patients experiencing cataracts benefit from our 35+ years of diagnostic experience and advanced imaging capabilities, ensuring accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.

Dr. Bonakdar on Cataracts

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert cataracts diagnosis and treatment for patients in University Hills and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.

What are cataracts?

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside your eye. It develops gradually, causing your vision to become foggy, blurry, or yellowed over time. Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over 40 and are the leading cause of blindness worldwide.

At what age do cataracts develop?

Cataracts typically begin forming after age 40, but most people do not notice vision changes until their 60s or 70s. By age 75, approximately half of all Americans have cataracts. Some people develop cataracts earlier due to diabetes, eye injuries, or medications like steroids.

What happens if cataracts are not removed?

Cataracts will continue to worsen over time if not treated. Vision becomes increasingly cloudy, making it difficult to drive, read, or perform everyday activities. While cataracts themselves do not damage the eye, the resulting vision loss can lead to falls, accidents, and loss of independence.

What are the symptoms of Cataracts?

University Hills residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:

  • Clouded or blurred vision
  • Difficulty seeing at night
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Fading of colors

What happens if cataracts is not treated?

Without proper diagnosis and treatment, cataracts can lead to:

  • Progressively cloudier and more yellowed vision
  • Difficulty driving, especially at night due to glare
  • Increased risk of falls and injuries from poor vision
  • Eventually unable to read or perform daily activities
  • Social isolation from inability to recognize faces
  • Legal blindness if left untreated for years

How is Cataracts treated?

Treatment for University Hills patients is tailored to the specific type and severity of their condition. Options available at our practice include:

Cataract Surgery
Premium IOL Implants
Laser-Assisted Surgery
Multifocal Lenses

Standard Care vs. Specialized Treatment for Cataracts

AspectStandard ApproachSpecialized Treatment
DetectionBasic vision testSlit lamp exam with dilated pupil evaluation
TimingWait until 'ripe' for surgeryPersonalized timing based on lifestyle impact
Lens OptionsStandard monofocal IOLPremium multifocal, toric, or accommodating IOLs
OutcomeClear distance vision, still need reading glassesPotential freedom from glasses at all distances
Co-managementReferred out entirelyPre- and post-operative care coordinated locally

Cataracts FAQs for University Hills Patients

Common questions from University Hills patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose cataracts using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. University Hills patients receive the same comprehensive diagnostic technology used at major academic eye centers, right here in Orange County.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for cataracts including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Dr. Bonakdar personalizes each University Hills patient's treatment plan based on condition severity, lifestyle demands, and long-term visual goals.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible from University Hills, with appointment times designed to fit your schedule.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for cataracts diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.
While we don't perform cataract surgery directly, we provide comprehensive pre-operative evaluations and post-operative care for University Hills patients. We co-manage with top Orange County cataract surgeons and help you select the ideal lens implant—monofocal, multifocal, or toric—based on your lifestyle needs.
We recommend cataract evaluations for University Hills residents over 60, or earlier if experiencing cloudy vision, glare while driving at night, or faded colors. Early detection allows for optimal surgical planning and better outcomes.

Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182

Cataracts Care for University Hills Residents

Cataracts involves the eye's natural lens and can significantly affect visual clarity. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. Our evaluation of University Hills patients includes detailed assessment of lens position, clarity, and effect on vision. Treatment options range from updated spectacle prescriptions and specialty contact lenses to surgical referral for lens replacement when vision impairment warrants intervention.

About University Hills

Academic community surrounding UC Irvine

Population: 15,000+

University studentsFaculty and staffGraduate studentsInternational students

Languages Spoken in University Hills

Our practice serves the diverse University Hills community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishMandarinKoreanVietnameseFarsi

Eye Health Priorities for University Hills

  • Comprehensive eye examinations
  • Contact lens fittings
  • Glasses and eyewear
  • Eye disease treatment
  • Emergency eye care

Conveniently Located Near University Hills Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills patients living near:

University of California, Irvine
UCI Medical Center
Aldrich Park
University Town Center

Getting to Our Office from University Hills

Drive Time
20 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
6.7 mi

University Hills patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 20 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get Directions

University Hills Neighborhoods We Serve

  • University Park
  • UCI Campus Area

Zip codes: 92617

Don't Delay Treatment for Cataracts

Without timely care, cataracts can lead to lasting visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best outcomes for University Hills patients.

Why University Hills Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Cataracts

35+ Years of Experience

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar has served Orange County since 1991, with extensive experience treating cataracts.

Advanced Diagnostics

OCT imaging, corneal topography, visual field testing, and retinal photography for precise diagnosis.

Insurance Accepted

VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, Medi-Cal, and most major vision and medical insurance plans.

Convenient for University Hills

Open Monday through Friday 9 AM – 6 PM with easy access from University Hills and surrounding communities.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Cataracts Specialist in University Hills

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating cataracts and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsBascom Palmer
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from University Hills

See why your neighbors in University Hills trust us with their vision.

Comprehensive Exam

"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."

emily garcia
Santa Ana, CA

Comprehensive Exam

"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."

Eduardo arias
Santa Ana, CA

Schedule Your Cataracts Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for University Hills and Orange County residents.