What are cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that causes blurred or dim vision. Modern cataract surgery replaces this lens with a clear intraocular lens (IOL). We offer monofocal, toric and other lens options tailored to your eyes and lifestyle.
Read our cataract surgery patient information for more detail about treatment, monitoring and what to expect.
Symptoms of cataracts
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Glare or halos around lights
- Colours appearing faded or yellowed
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
Who is at risk?
Cataracts commonly develop with age. Other contributing factors can include diabetes, previous eye injury, some eye operations and prolonged corticosteroid use.
Types of cataracts
Cataracts can affect different parts of the lens. Nuclear cataracts affect the centre, cortical cataracts form around the edges, and posterior subcapsular cataracts develop near the back of the lens. Your ophthalmologist will assess the type and how it affects your vision.
Treatment and lens choices
Surgery removes the cloudy lens through small incisions and replaces it with an artificial lens. It is usually considered when cataract affects your daily activities. The incisions do not typically require sutures.
Lens and focusing options include monofocal lenses, monovision, extended depth of focus and multifocal lenses. Toric lenses may be used to correct astigmatism. The best option depends on the health of your eyes, your visual needs and your preferences. Glasses may still be needed after surgery.
Day surgery and recovery
Cataract surgery is normally a day procedure under local anaesthetic with sedation. Operating time is often 10–15 minutes, but you will spend longer at the hospital. Arrange someone to take you home and stay with you afterwards.
Follow your surgeon’s instructions for your protective shield, eye drops and follow-up appointments. Vision often improves over days, but recovery varies. Pre-existing retinal or optic nerve conditions can limit the improvement.
Benefits and risks
Surgery aims to improve clarity, reduce cataract symptoms and make everyday activities easier. It may reduce dependence on glasses. All surgery carries risks, including infection, inflammation, bleeding, pressure changes, swelling at the macula, retinal detachment and the need for further surgery. Your surgeon will explain your individual benefits and risks.
If cataracts are left untreated
Cataracts may progressively affect your vision and daily activities. Discuss changes in your vision and the timing of surgery with your ophthalmologist.