Advanced Cataract Surgery
For ages over 60+
Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed elective surgery in Australia, and permanently removes the cloudy lens protein that causes loss of vision with cataract. Once removed, an artificial lens implant is inserted into the eye to correct your vision.
What is a cataract?
A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens of the eye, limiting the amount of light that can enter, and preventing us from seeing well.
Cataract surgery is performed through a keyhole, microscopic and suture-less corneal incision. A highly sophisticated ultrasound probe is used to remove the cloudy lens, and an artificial transparent intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted in its place to restore better sight.
Cataract surgery is normally carried out as a day-case procedure. It typically only takes 15 minutes to perform, and is carried out under sedation and local anaesthesia, and is not painful.
At Forest Eye Surgery, we offer a broad range of advanced intraocular lenses to suit each patient’s eyes, lifestyle, and visual goals
On the day of your surgery
You will usually have your cataract surgery 1-4 weeks after the consultation with your surgeon. Most people spend between 2 and 2.5 hours at the day surgery, and we recommend that you take at least two days off work afterwards.
Many people bring a friend or family member with them to help them get home afterwards, as your vision may be blurry for 48-72 hours. It is a good idea to bring sunglasses to wear on the way home, and please don’t wear eye makeup on the day.
You will be able to see within a day of the procedure being completed, but it will be a few days before you can see well enough to drive.
At the day surgery, the nurse will use drops to dilate your pupil. They will discuss the aftercare with you, explaining the eye drops and how to look after your eyes immediately after treatment, and in the days that follow.
The anaesthetist will talk to you about the anaesthetic procedure. They will give you sedation and a local anaesthetic injection around the eye once you are sedated. Whilst cataract surgery is carried out under local anaesthesia for the vast majority of patients, a general anaesthetic may be used in particular circumstances. The surgery then takes approximately 15 minutes. After surgery, you will rest on the recovery ward for 30-45 minutes.
After your cataract surgery
You will go home with a pad on the eye which you can remove 6 hours after getting home. Your eyes will feel tired and gritty for the rest of the day, so we advise you to stay at home and rest.
You will be able to see the next day, but your vision will be slightly misty for 48 – 72 hours. Depending on what your vision was like before, you may notice a dramatic improvement straight away.
How to choose an intraocular lens (IOL)?
Choosing the right IOL is an important decision that can significantly influence your post-surgery vision and overall quality of life.
Choosing your cataract surgeon
Cataract surgery is the most common surgical procedure performed in Australia.
Almost every eye specialist (ophthalmologist) is trained in cataract surgery.
So how do you choose the best surgeon for your goals?
- Experience
It is worthwhile seeing a surgeon who dedicates their practice to advanced cataract surgery. These surgeons keep up to date with the latest advances in surgery techniques and tend to be experienced with a wide range of intraocular lenses (IOLs) options. They are also best suited to dealing with complex surgical cases.
- Knowledge
Equipment proficiency
Ensure that the surgeon you see is well versed in modern diagnostic tools and surgical technologies relating to cataract surgery, and that they are able to apply these technologies to your eyes safely and effectively.Intraocular lens options
If you wish to reduce your dependence on glasses or eliminate them entirely, make sure that your surgeon has intimate knowledge of premium intraocular lenses, and the finer nuances of each type and brand.
Intraocular lens technology is always evolving, and new lenses are released regularly. It is important that you choose a surgeon who knows which lenses are delivering on what they promise and are worth adopting into their surgical practice.
- Communication
Choose a surgeon who actively listens to your goals, concerns and questions. The right surgeon is knowledgeable and puts you at ease, giving you the confidence that your eyes are in good hands.
Continue reading to our blog post "How to choose your cataract surgeon?" which details questions you should ask your surgeon during your consultation.
Enquire today:
Unit 11, Building 7
49 Frenchs Forest Rd East
Frenchs Forest NSW 2086
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