A cataract (Latin for waterfall) occurs when the natural lens in the eye becomes cloudy and opaque. Usually this happens as the years progress, but in some a cataract can develop earlier in life too (e.g. diabetics or those on long term steroids).
One or all of the following may be experienced as the cataract develops:
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty with daily activities (such as reading or watching TV) despite updated glasses prescription
- Glare from oncoming traffic headlights at night
- Dull colours
- Difficulty with vision in dim light
- Unable to drive because the vision is outside legal criteria for driving
The cataract can be removed with surgery and a new artificial lens placed in the eye. Modern cataract surgery involves making very small incisions into the eye (about two and a half millimetres), followed by the use of gentle ultrasonic energy to remove the cloudy lens. An artificial lens is then placed to restore vision. The type and power of this lens is selected based on the individuals unique requirements.
Full recovery can take up to four weeks, but the vast majority of people notice a big difference in a couple of days and can get back to most routine activities the day after surgery.
Why opt for private cataract surgery with me?
- Guaranteed continuity of care. I will personally look after your eyes on each visit.
- A choice of high-quality artificial lenses including “Premium” intra-ocular lenses such as toric (for astigmatism), extended depth of focus (a new generation of multi-focal lens implants) and trifocal implants.
- Greater possibility of reduced dependence on glasses with premium intra-ocular lenses.
What if you don’t have private health insurance?
Private cataract surgery can be done even if you don’t have health insurance (or if your insurance doesn’t cover the procedure), on a self-paying basis.
If you do have health care insurance:
Depending on the company and type of insurance, your insurer might either pay all or share half the fees with you. My secretaries can inform you of the prices, and work with you and the insurance company to clarify all involved costs.
In case your insurance covers only the cost of basic cataract surgery, premium lens implants can still be used but this will likely involve an extra fee to you.