Cataract

Who needs cataract surgery?

You do not need to wait until the cataract is "ripe" anymore. In fact, you can have surgery as soon as your cataract is interfering with your quality of life. You do not have to have a cataract removed just because it is there, but if it is causing you some problems, for example poor vision when it is bright, or difficulty reading road signs when driving, then it would be reasonable to have it removed.

How is the surgery done?

Cataracts are treated by replacing the cloudy lens of your eye with a new lens. The old, cloudy lens is broken and removed using an ultrasound probe. The old lens is replaced by an artificial lens (implant), which is placed inside the eye in the same position as the old one used to be. The strength of the implant is calculated before the operation to ensure that it will suit your eye. The operation is usually carried out through a tiny cut in the eye that seals without any stitches. In fact we can also treat you astigmatism at the same time, if you wish.

How successful is the surgery?

The operation is one of the most successful operations around, with more than 95% achieving an improvement in their vision. Where other eye diseases are present in addition to cataract, the improvement in vision following catarct surgery may not be as marked. Your surgeon will however discuss this with you so that you fully understand what might be expected in your particular case. In almost all cases the operation improves eyesight.

What are the risks of the surgery?

As with all types of surgery, there is a risk of complication, it is comforting to know that the complication rate for cataract surgery, (particularly of serious repercussions) is very low. Likewise most patients are reassured to know that in the rare eventuality of a complication happening, that they are in the hands of leading experts.

The risk of losing one's vision completely, from infection or haemorrhage at the time of surgery, is extremely rare, affecting about 1 case per 500-1000 procedures. If minor complications are included ,the recent UK National Cataract Surgery Survey found an overall complication rate of 7.5%. However in general terms modern cataract surgery is rightly regarded as being one of the most succesful and safe procedures carried out in hospitals today.

What type of anaesthetic is used?

Most cataract surgery is carried out under local anaesthetic, although general anaesthetic can be arranged in some circumstances.

How long is the hospital stay?

Most cases can be done as a day case procedure, allowing you to go home on the day of surgery. There may be circumstances where it may be advisable to stay over-night.

How long is the recovery period?

Most patients notice a marked improvement within 48 hours of the procedure with gradual improvements taking place over the next four weeks.

For most people a return to full activity is possible within four weeks of surgery, but it is important to discuss this with your surgeon. It is likely you will have to change your spectacles.

What are the do's and don'ts after surgery?

The main thing to avoid after surgery is rubbing the eye. With modern surgical techniques, bending over, and heavy lifting are not strictly forbidden. It is best however to avoid any activity where direct contact with the eye is likely (ie swimming) Wash your hair with care, making sure that the water does not go into the eye.

What can you expect after surgery?

For a few days the eye may feel slightly gritty, but this is usually mild. Painkillers are not usually necessary, but drops are used for a few weeks. The eye may be slightly red, but this usually settles over one to three weeks.

More information on care after the operation.