Vision Centre

More Facts About Cataracts

Got a cataract?

Perhaps you are feeling worried?

Don't be.

Cataract surgery is a very common procedure for people over 65.

These days, cataract operations are much safer, faster and more comfortable than in the past.

You will enjoy much better vision after your procedure.

What exactly is a cataract?

Simply speaking, a cataract is opacity in the natural lens of the eye which prevents light from reaching the retina and interferes with vision.

Sooner or later cataracts affect almost everyone.

How do you get a cataract?

Slowly. Cataracts usually take a long time to develop - months or even years.

What are the effects of cataracts?

·                     Dim, blurry or clouded vision

·                     Reduced night vision

·                     Increased sensitivity to bright sunlight or car headlights

·                     Halo effect around lights

·                     A need for brighter light when reading or doing other things

·                     Increased frequency of changes in your contact lens or spectacle  prescriptions

·                     Double vision or perhaps ghost images in one eye

·                     Fading or yellowing of colour perception

How are cataracts treated?

There is no medical treatment for cataracts. Cataracts have to be removed and a tiny man-made lens inserted into the eye to restore vision.

What will vision be like after a cataract is removed?

In the vast majority of cases, patients have better vision after their cataract surgery.

What happens during cataract surgery?

These days, cataract procedures are usually day surgery, under a local anesthetic. You will be fully awake, though comfortable and without pain. The surgery itself will only take about 20 to 30 minutes and the whole procedure - from entering the day surgery to returning home - usually only takes a few hours.

You will not be able to drive after the surgery and should make suitable arrangements for your return home.

What happens after cataract surgery?

Prior to discharge from the day surgery, instructions for post-operative care will be discussed with you. You will be asked to see your eye doctor the next day, and several times over the coming weeks.

Usually, eyes heal quickly after surgery and vision improves within a few days or even sooner.