A cataract is a clouding of the natural crystalline lens of the eye. The lens sits behind the iris and pupil and is responsible for the dynamic range of focus we have. Our eyes accurately focus from one distance to another as a direct result of the lens changing shape, similar to a camera lens. A naturally clear lens passes focussed light through the eye to the retina and gives us sharp vision, If the lens becomes cloudy, then less light passes to the retina, and our vision becomes blurred of foggy.

Common symptoms of cataracts include blurred or foggy vision, difficulty with driving particularly in low light, an increased reliance on illlumination for near tasks, sudden changes in your spectacle prescription, increased glare sensitivity, and reduced colour contrast. Cataract most often progressively worsens slowly, however sometimes cataracts can develop very quickly. We recommend having a yearly eye examination for close monitoring if early cataracts have been diagnosed.

Cataracts most commonly occur with increasing age, due to the general clouding of the otherwise clear crystalline lens. This natural process begins after the age of 40 and continues throughout our lives. Some factors that may cause cataract or increase your risk of cataract development include excessive UV exposure, injury, family history, diabetes, smoking and corticosteroid medications. Maintaining a healthy diet and minimising direct UV exposure to the eyes will often postpone the development of cataracts.

Different types of cataracts exist, with the most common type causing a general yellowing of the lens, whilst other forms cause clouding on the front or back surface of the lens. Each type may have a slightly different effect on vision, however generally all cataracts will cause blurred vision and glare sensitivity to various degrees.

Cataracts are readily resolved by cataract surgery. Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy natural lens of the eye, and replacing it with a new clear artificial acrylic lens. the procedure is performed as a day surgery and is relatively quick, painless, with a short recovery time. Following surgery, medicated eye drops will typically be used for the first month and vision improves over the first week and usually stabilises by one month after surgery. At this point, it is usually safe to have your prescription checked and new glasses made to suit your new vision.

This is probably one of the most asked questions once someone realises they would benefit from cataract surgery. The short answer is yes it is likely, although you will have less reliance on the need for spectacles at certain viewing ranges. Prior to cataract surgery, consideration is given to the visual outcomes following surgery and the options are discussed with the surgeon. 

Significant improvements in technology mean there is an ever increasing range of lens implant types available, however what works well for one person may not always be the best option for the next person. As a general rule, the following scenarios exist.  Patient’s may opt for distance vision lens implants only, and therefore require spectacles for computer and reading after surgery. Alternatively, a patient may opt for an ‘extended depth of focus’ lens which provides distance and middle range vision, however glasses will be required for close tasks. Occasionally, some patients choose ‘monovision’, where one eye sees in the distance whilst the other eye sees up close. The brain adjusts quite well to this new situation, however some individuals will find this option intolerable hence  it is often trialled with contact lenses prior to proceeding. Finally, multifocal lenses are available to be implanted in the eye which offer the greatest range of vision from distance to near, but come with a potentially annoying side-effect of haloes and glare surrounding lights in the evening. Due to the complexity of the different lens implants available, having a conversation with your eye care practitioner about the advantages and disadvantages of each scenario is highly advisable.Accordion Content