What is a cataract?
When the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy it is called a 'cataract'. Patients often describe blurred vision, glare with bright lights (for example car head lights when driving at night), frequent changes in glasses prescriptions, and sometimes double vision in the affected eye.
How is cataract surgery performed?
The cloudy lens can be removed with gentle micro-incision surgery under local anaesthetic. The procedure takes about 15 minutes, and is usually performed with 'topical' anaesthetic - this means no injections, but simply effective numbing eye drops applied to your eye. A new artificial optically clear foldable intraocular lens is then placed into the eye. No stitches are usually needed because the incision is so small - about 2mm. This means a painless, quick and effective procedure, which quickly restores sight - you can expect to see significant improvements in your vision within a few days.
What replacement lens options are there?
There are numerous options available, and your specific needs will be discussed between you your consultant. Broadly the options are:
· High quality aspheric monofocal lens: a good option for crystal clear vision.
· Toric lens: an excellent optical solution for those with significant astigmatism.
· Multifocal lens: optical design to achieve both distance and near vision.
· Mono-vision: achieving distance and near vision using binocular function.
Everyone has different demands on their vision. Your needs and lifestyle will be discussed with you, and the various options explained, so that the ideal optical solution can be selected to give you the best outcome from your surgery.
Why should I choose private surgery?
By choosing private cataract surgery with the East Point Vision team you can expect:
· Guaranteed experienced consultant care - no junior doctors or trainees
· Continuity of care - you will always see your chosen consultant, who knows your needs, and has time dedicated to your care.
· Access to newer innovations not always available with NHS care - e.g. multifocal lens technology
· Appointments take as long as you need - to ensure you get the attention to detail, and opportunity to discuss your care and follow-up.
· Minimal waiting time - you can be scheduled for surgery within 2 weeks of your first visit, should you need.
· Choice of surgery dates to suit your diary.
· After surgery you will have direct access to your consultant in the rare event of an emergency.