Cataract

Cataracts and surgery information

Cataracts can develop at different rates. Usually this is a slow development but it is not always the case.

A cataract is a cloudy patch which obstructs your vision. Although we monitor changes if you have regular Eye Examinations with us, if you notice the below issues please let us know at your Eye Examination, especially if your day to day life is affected;

  • Sensitivity to light with glare/halo around bright lights
  • Color seeming dull
  • Troubles seeing in low light
  • Blurred vision

As the Cataract develops we may refer you to have Cataract surgery at ACES or SpaMedica. Although we are a private practice this referral will still be part of the NHS service.

What is involved in Cataract surgery?

You will initially be contacted for a pre operative assessment appointment, operation appointment and then a follow up appointment around 4-6 weeks (this may be with us).

The surgery will involve removing the cloudy lens and replace it with an intraocular lens (synthetic lens). It is a quick procedure which is carried out under local anesthetic administered via eye drops.

Some useful tips for attending your clinic;

  • Take your current glasses and prescription
  • If you are diabetic or taking Warfarin take your record book
  • Contact Lens wearers – remove lenses 48 hours before pre-assessment and 24 hours before your surgery (gas permeable/hard contact lenses 14 days before)
  • Ensure you have someone to drive you to all appointments

Recovery from the procedure takes anywhere up to 6 weeks. Initial discomfort sometimes include grittiness or watering eyes but can be managed with paracetamol. If you work you will need time off while your eyes recover. You will be issued with drops to help prevent infection and reduce any swelling.

We will perform another full Eye Exam to assess your optical needs once you are ready.

YAG Capsulotomy surgery

In around 10% of cataract patients the posterior capsule can become thickened. This can have the same symptoms as the original cloudy Cataract and although the clouding will not harm the eye will need YAG (Yttrium, Aluminium and Garnet crystal – which generate the laser) surgery.

If you have any concerns please call the team on 01775 713366

 

 

 

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