Cataract Surgery

What are Cataracts?

Cataracts – or cloudy lenses within the eye – are the commonest eye problem requiring surgery, with thousands of patients undergoing cataract surgery in NZ every year. Cataracts tend to cause problems with your eyesight, which can manifest as blurred vision, haloes, glare from headlights, or a constantly changing spectacle prescription. Once present, cataracts are highly unlikely to spontaneously improve and the only proven treatment is surgery.

How are Cataracts treated?

Fortunately, thanks to modern microsurgical techniques, this day-case procedure is easy to undergo and the overwhelming majority of patients are delighted with the outcome. We offer bespoke modern, keyhole surgery as standard for all patients with cataracts and by choosing private surgery, we are able to guarantee that your procedure will be carried out by a specialist consultant who has performed thousands of cataract and lens procedures.

We are happy to be able to offer immediately sequential bilateral cataract surgery (i.e. cataract surgery to both eyes on the same day) to those patients who meet clinical criteria and seek the convenience of this option. Some patients choose to defer second eye surgery to within a fortnight or later. There is certainly no need to wait until your cataract is ‘ripe’ these days. In fact, many patients are choosing to have cataract surgery earlier in order to take advantage of modern intraocular lenses which can reduce one’s spectacle-dependence and increase one’s quality of life.

What will Cataract Surgery feel like?

Cataract surgery is generally very comfortable for the patient but surgical procedures in and around the eye can seem daunting. We understand this which is why we offer several options to ensure your comfort – ranging from modern “no needle, no suture” techniques, the option of a sedative for relaxation, and all the way through to general anaesthesia with a specialist anaesthetist if required.

Will I see what is happening during my Surgery?

No. The microscope used during surgery has a very bright light source which has the twin benefits of allowing your surgeon excellent visibility but also preventing you from seeing anything other than blurred movement. Furthermore, any instruments held near to your eye during surgery will be out of focus for you so you will not see any detail.

How will I stop myself from blinking?

Do not worry: we use a comfortable speculum that fits to the contour of your eyelids and prevents them from blinking during the surgery.

What if I cough/sneeze/need to move during the Surgery?

We spend time to ensure you are lying in a comfortable position before any surgery begins. Should you need to move during the surgery itself, simple verbal communication to your surgeon will usually allow ample time for a pause during the procedure before safe continuation. Whilst we ask that you remain as still as able, there is no need to hold your breath and it is extremely unlikely for any significant problems to arise from movement.

Will I be able to see immediately after Surgery?

Recovery following modern cataract surgery is fast, with many patients attaining 20/20 vision or better within 24-36 hours. We use clear plastic shields immediately after your surgery simply as a preventative against unintended eye-rubbing. Things will initially be a little blurry but because we do not use occlusive dressings, you will not be left in the dark.