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Cataract Surgery
What is cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is the surgery required ​to restore vision that has become obscured due to a cataract forming. A cataract is a clouding that forms on the lens of the eye. This clouding prevents light from passing through the lens, resulting in a loss of vision.
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Symptoms may include:
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blurred vision
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difficulty seeing in low or bright light
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increased short-sightedness
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glare from lights
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Cataracts develop over years and are most common in people over 60 years old. They may initially cause no symptoms, however, if left untreated, they may become larger and eventually result in blindness.
Cataract surgery involves removal of the cloudy lens and replacing with an intraocular lens implant (IOL) which can also address long or short-sightedness. Vision impairment from cataracts cannot be treated using glasses or contact lenses.
Cataract Surgery: What to Expect
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Before Surgery
Day of Surgery
After Surgery
Treatment begins with a consultation with the doctor performing your surgery. The overall condition of your eye will be assessed and diagnostic tests carried out to determine the intraocular lens most suitable for you.
We recommend allowing two days for surgery and recovery before returning to work or other activities. You can expect to spend 2 hours at the clinic, with surgery usually taking 10-15 minutes under local anaesthetic.
You will be provided with a comprehensive guide to ensuring the best recovery of your eyes. This will likely involve self-administering drops regularly and attending a review appointment in a few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Am I suitable for laser eye surgery?You will require a thorough assessment and examination of your eyes to determine if you are suitable for surgery. However, generally to be suitable for LASIK surgery, you should be at least 18 years old, with a stable prescription and healthy eyes, and not pregnant or suffering from conditions such as diabetes, glaucoma, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, cataracts, or a herpes infection in the eye. Most people are suitable for LASIK surgery but LASEK may be recommended for those with pre-existing medical conditions, thinner corneas, or higher prescriptions for nearsightedness. Your doctor will discuss your options with you during your initial consultation.
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How quickly will I see after surgery?Recovery will vary depending on the type of laser eye surgery you've had and your individual circumstances. For LASIK surgeries, you could see improved vision from as soon as 24 hours after the procedure. For LASEK and PRK procedures, your vision usually improves over one week. You may experience dry, tired eyes, and sensitivity to light, all of which are normal and should subside over time.
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When can I drive / work / play sports?Most LASIK patients are able to return to work within a 48 hours of surgery. LASEK and PRK patients may take up to a week to recover. You will be advised by your doctor beforehand how much time to take off work. If you work in a dusty environment you may be advised to refrain from returning to work for a few weeks. While you won't be able to drive yourself home from surgery, LASIK patients are usually able to drive within a few days, and LASEK/PRK patients after a week. Playing sports (apart from contact sports) is safe after one week, and patients can fly within a few days. It is recommended to wait at least a month before returning to moderate/intense sporting activities. Please note that these are examples and you will be advised based on your individual circumstances.