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Cataract Surgery

Overview

Cataracts are characterised by opacification of the normally clear crystalline lens. Cataracts are treated surgically with removal and replacement with an intraocular lens. The new lens is selected to optimize your visual outcome.

Intraocular lens selection includes

  • Monofocal lenses
  • Toric lenses
  • Presbyopia correcting lenses (advanced technology intraocular lenses)

Indications

Cataract surgery is primarily indicated under the following conditions:

  • Worsening Vision: Marked deterioration in visual acuity that affects daily activities.
  • Sensitivity to Glare: Increased difficulty seeing in bright light conditions.
  • Secondary Glaucoma: When cataracts lead to inflammation or increased intraocular pressure due to lens thickening, particularly in hyperopic patients.
  • Lens Injury: Surgical intervention is necessary for traumatic cataracts or when lens swelling occurs.
  • Retinal Surgery: If a cataract obstructs visibility during procedures related to retinal conditions, surgery may be required.
  • Presbyopia: Although not strictly a cataract indication, refractive lens exchange may be performed for presbyopia or high ametropia, allowing for improved distance vision.
  • Interference with Other Eye Conditions: Surgery may be recommended if cataracts hinder the treatment of other eye issues, such as age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.

Cataract surgery is considered when these conditions significantly impair a patient's quality of life or visual function.

Surgical procedure

Cataract surgery is performed as a day procedure, it is done under sedation or general anaesthesia. Dr Makda partners with specialist anaesthetists for his cases.

During the procedure, a microincision is made on the cornea using a diamond blade, a circular opening is made in the capsule surrounding the cataract and ultrasound energy is used to fracture and remove the cataract. A new intraocular lens is then inserted through the microincision into the capsule. After surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort or grittiness in the eye. Patients are monitored for any complications and will have follow-up visits to ensure proper healing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need spectacles after surgery?

This depends on the intraocular lens used and refractive outcome. During cataract surgery the human lens which is 4mm in diameter is replaced with a 1mm thick artificial lens with the final outcome depending on where it comes to rest. We aim to maximise spectacle independence but most patients may require glasses for some activities.

Are there any risks or complications?

While cataract surgery is considered safe, there are potential risks such as infection, bleeding, retinal detachment, or complications like posterior capsule opacification. However, serious complications are rare, and most patients experience successful outcomes.

How long does the surgery take?

Cataract surgery typically lasts between 30 minutes to an hour. It is usually performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day.