Cataract Surgery
Cataract Surgery
A cataract is a gradual clouding of the eye's natural lens, blocking light from reaching the retina and impacting vision.
Cataracts are one of the most commonly treated conditions at our clinic. While no current medical treatment can reverse or prevent cataract development, they can be removed safely and effectively.
Cataract Assessment
A cataract assessment is a comprehensive, painless eye examination that includes:
- Testing for long- and short-sightedness with and without glasses
- Measuring how glare affects your vision
- Examining the front and back of your eye
- Taking a photograph of your cataract
After the assessment, we’ll discuss your treatment options. If surgery is recommended, an ultrasound measurement called an A-Scan or IOL Master will be performed to determine the precise power and shape of your eye. This enables accurate calculation of the intraocular lens (IOL) power needed to correct your vision. Toric IOLs are also available to correct astigmatism.
Cataract Procedure
Cataract surgery is conducted as a day procedure. Numbing eye drops are applied to ensure a painless experience while allowing movement of the eye and eyelids, so no post-operative patch is required, and vision improvement is often immediate.
Once the eye is numbed, a tiny, self-sealing incision is made at the side of the cornea. Through this incision, Dr. Allan Bank, Dr. Rohan Gupta, or Dr. Thomas Woo will remove the cataract and insert the new intraocular lens.
The latest cataract removal technique, phacoemulsification, uses an ultrasonic probe vibrating at 40,000 times per second to break the cataract into microscopic pieces, which are then emulsified and gently removed. This approach minimizes trauma to the eye.
After cataract removal, a specialized injector is used to place the foldable intraocular lens within the pupil. The lens unfolds and settles into the same capsule that housed the natural lens, restoring focus following surgery.
Any surgical or invasive procedure involves risks. We encourage seeking a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.
Cost of Cataract Surgery
During your cataract assessment, all details regarding the procedure and associated costs will be provided.
For uninsured patients, the cost of cataract surgery varies based on the type of intraocular lens implant needed. A full quote will be given at the assessment.
For more information about cataract or laser eye surgery, or any other procedure, please contact Lindfield Eye Care via telephone. Our team will be happy to assist with your inquiry.