A cataract is gradual yellowing or clouding of the lens inside the eye. In earlier times, cataract surgery was only done when the eyesight was very bad. However, modern cataract surgery has become more predictable, there are few side effects and the eye usually recovers quickly. Modern cataract surgery is done when people find their failing eyesight does not let them do their day to day activities.

How fast does a cataract develop?

The rate in which a cataract develops varies among individuals and may even vary between eyes. In younger people and people with diabetes, cataracts may progress rapidly over a few months. However, most age-related cataracts progress gradually over a period of years.

How is a cataract detected?

A cataract may be picked up by your optometrist or family doctor. It is also important that a thorough eye examination is performed by your optometrist or eye specialist to ensure that there are no other causes for your blurry vision.

Can cataract surgery be performed by laser surgery?

No. There are no institutions in the world currently using lasers to remove cataracts. Experimental lasers are being developed which may be of use in the future.

Does the operation hurt?

No. An anaesthetic is applied before surgery so that there is no pain, but some people experience slight discomfort after the surgery. The anaesthetic stops the eye from moving during the operation and your eyelids are held open by a spring, so all you have to do is lie still for the surgery. You cannot see what is happening during the operation.

Is cataract surgery permanent?

Yes. It is not possible to get another cataract once it has been removed. However, approximately 10% of patients may become aware of a gradual blurring of vision some months to even years after the surgery as a result of the thickening of the lens capsule that supports your artificial lens. If this occurs clear vision is often simply restored by laser treatment, called a capsulotomy, which can be done during a short visit to the clinic.

Can cataracts re-grow after surgery?

No. Once a cataract is removed another cataract will not form. Sometimes the capsule securing the intraocular lens thickens following surgery and may require laser treatment. This is performed during a short outpatient visit.

Will I need glasses after the surgery?

Most patients will require glasses for fine visual tasks although some patients can get by without them for certain activities.

Can problems occur after surgery?

Cataract surgery is very safe and has high success rates. However it is important to understand that complications can occur during or after the surgery. If you experience even the slightest problem after surgery, please contact your surgeon immediately.

What if I have other eye diseases - will cataract surgery help?

There are many diseases which can affect and limit the eye's visual improvement following cataract surgery. These can be diagnosed before the operation and your eye specialist will discuss the impact of any such problems with you.