Your Cataract Operation

A cataract is a clouding of the eye's natural lens, which lies behind the iris and the pupil. It often leads to a decrease in vision and can affect one or both eyes.

Symptoms of cataracts include blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light, and seeing 'halos' around lights. A comprehensive eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist is necessary to confirm the presence of cataracts.

Cataract surgery is recommended when cataracts cause enough vision loss to interfere with daily activities, such as reading, driving, or watching TV. Your eye specialist will advise you based on the severity of your cataract and your visual needs.

Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens known as an intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure is generally performed on an outpatient basis under local anaesthesia.

Cataract surgery is generally very safe and is one of the most common and successful surgeries performed. Complications are rare but can include infection, bleeding, and retinal detachment.

The actual surgery usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes. However, you should plan to be at the surgical facility for a few hours to allow for preparation and recovery time.

Yes, you will be awake during the surgery, but you will be given a local anesthetic to numb your eye, as well as sedation to help you relax and feel comfortable.

Most people experience improved vision within a few days after surgery. Your eye may be itchy and sensitive, and you may need to wear an eye patch or shield for a few days. Full recovery usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks.

You should avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and bending over for a few weeks after surgery. Your doctor will give you specific post-operative instructions to follow.

Many people find that they need less dependence on glasses after cataract surgery, especially for distance vision. However, you may still need reading glasses or corrective lenses for certain tasks.

Typically, cataract surgery is performed on one eye at a time, with a few weeks in between procedures to allow for recovery. This helps ensure the best possible outcomes and reduces the risk of complications.

Before surgery, you will need a pre-operative examination to measure the shape and size of your eye. Your doctor may also recommend stopping certain medications. Follow all pre-operative instructions provided by your healthcare team.

Yes, cataract surgery is covered by the NHS in the UK for those who meet the necessary clinical criteria. Your GP or optometrist can refer you to an NHS ophthalmologist for assessment.

Without surgery, cataracts can lead to significant vision loss and eventually blindness. Untreated cataracts can also increase the risk of falls and injuries, and severely impact your quality of life.

Cataracts cannot come back once the natural lens has been removed. However, it's possible for the membrane behind the IOL (posterior capsule) to become cloudy, which can be treated with a simple laser procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy.