Smoking and Cataracts:How Cigarettes Hasten Vision Loss—And Why Quitting Matters

Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision impairment worldwide, clouding the eye’s lens and making daily activities harder over time. While aging is a major risk factor, smoking significantly speeds up cataract formation, increasing both the likelihood and severity of vision loss. The chemicals in cigarette smoke damage eye tissues, accelerating the breakdown of the lens and making surgery necessary much sooner than it might have been otherwise. The good news? This damage is preventable. At ReFocus Eye Health Cheshire, our experienced surgeons—Dr. Paul Masi, Dr. Andrew Swan, Dr. Michelle White, and Dr. Susel Oropesa—combine state-of-the-art technology with personalized care, ensuring your surgery is not just safe, but as comfortable as possible.

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Key Biological Mechanisms Behind Smoking-Induced Cataracts

The Link Between Smoking and Cataracts

Key Biological Mechanisms Behind Smoking-Induced Cataracts

How Smoking Intensity and Duration Affect Cataract Risk

Heavy Smokers

Moderate Smokers

Light Smokers and Occasional Smokers

Meet Our Cataract Surgeons

Susel Oropesa, MD

Dr. Susel Oropesa is a board-certified ophthalmic surgeon specializing in refractive cataract surgery. Her journey in medicine began with a Bachelor of Science degree from Yale University, followed by a medical degree from Columbia University. Dr. Oropesa distinguished herself during her residency in Ophthalmology at Mount Sinai Hospital, where she...

Languages: English, Spanish

Michelle L. White, MD

Dr. Michelle L. White is a board-eligible ophthalmologist focusing on anterior segment disorders, cataracts, cornea transplant surgery, and laser vision correction. Dr. White’s journey in medicine began at Drexel University College of Medicine, where she earned her medical degree and later served as Chief Resident during her ophthalmology residency training....

Languages: English

Paul Masi, MD, FACS

Dr. Paul Masi is a distinguished board-certified ophthalmologist dedicated to comprehensive eye care. As a clinical instructor at the prestigious Yale School of Medicine, he exemplifies medical and surgical ophthalmology excellence. Dr. Masi is a respected medical staff member at Yale New Haven Hospital, Connecticut Eye Surgery Center-South in Milford,...

Languages: English

Andrew Swan, MD, FACS

Dr. Andrew Swan is a distinguished board-certified ophthalmologist renowned for his cataract and lens implant expertise. As a clinical instructor at the esteemed Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, he not only practices excellence but also imparts his knowledge to future generations of medical professionals. Dr. Swan's exceptional...

Languages: English, Spanish

Why Quitting Smoking Reduces Cataract Risk

Quitting smoking significantly lowers the risk of developing cataracts, the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Cigarette smoke releases harmful chemicals that accelerate protein breakdown in the eye’s lens, causing it to become cloudy over time. By quitting, you reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, allowing your eyes to stay clearer and healthier for longer.

How Quitting Smoking Lowers Your Cataract Risk

What the Research Shows About Cataract Risk After Quitting

The Public Health Impact of Smoking Cessation

Since cataracts are the leading cause of vision impairment worldwide, reducing smoking rates can have significant public health benefits.

Lower Healthcare Costs

Improved Vision Health in Low-Income Countries

Q&A about Smoking and Cataracts

Can smoking really cause cataracts, or is it just a correlation?

If I quit smoking now, will my cataract risk go down immediately?

I only smoke occasionally. Does that still increase my risk?

Is there a way to “detox” my eyes from smoking?

Your Trusted Cataract Surgeons In Cheshire

Cataracts don’t have to hold you back. Our trusted team at ReFocus Eye Health Cheshire is here to help you see clearly again. We regularly welcome patients from Southington, Wallingford, Naugatuck, and even out of state or overseas. Our 4.8 average rating with nearly 400 patient reviews is testament to the dedication, expertise, and care we provide to every patient. Cataract surgery isn’t just about regaining clearer vision—it’s about reclaiming your life, your independence, and your joy in seeing the world vividly again. At ReFocus Eye Health Cheshire, you’re not just another patient—you’re part of our family. Our dedicated team, advanced technology, and personalized care ensure you receive the best possible vision—for today and years to come.