Cataract FAQ

A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens of the eye. Approximately 25% of people over 65 years of age will have some cataract formation. Cataracts can develop in both eyes but the rate at which they develop in each eye often varies.

Cataracts may develop due to a variety of factors including:

• The natural ageing process
• Prolonged exposure to UV light
• Eye trauma
• Smoking
• Diseases such as diabetes
• Long-term use of some medications (particularly Cortisone)
• Hereditary factors

Common cataract symptoms include, glare, ghosting, multiple images, trouble with near and distance vision and frequent changes in spectacle prescription. You may just notice that your vision is blurred. Your regular eye care practitioner should be able to detect a cataract.

Cataract surgery should be considered when your symptoms interfere with your daily activities or when prescription spectacles no longer provide sufficient visual clarity.

No, cataract surgery is a day procedure, and you are only required to be at the centre for approximately two hours.

No, the second eye may be operated on anytime after the first eye, but not on the same day. There are no set rules for the interval between eyes but one week is the most common interval. Increasingly, surgery for the second eye is being performed on the day after the first eye. This decision will be made between you and Dr Oakley.

Yes, you will need someone to take you to and collect you after surgery. You will require a companion/carer for the first 12-24 hours after your procedure due to the sedation given to you prior to your operation.

Yes, you should continue taking all regular medications, unless otherwise advised by the surgeon or nursing staff. Be sure to advise Dr Oakley of all the medications, including complementary medications, you are taking prior to your procedure. Also advise of any allergies.

It is likely you will need to wear a patch over the operated eye for a few hours after the procedure. This can usually be removed by yourself at home in the evening following the procedure, and postoperative drops started. Dr Oakley will give you more specific instructions regarding care for the eye on the day of your procedure.  

Whilst small incision cataract surgery can be assisted by a laser, at this stage we do not believe the benefits have sufficient merit. The procedure is performed with the advanced Centurion phacoemulsifier, that uses ultrasound to fragment the natural lens of the eye. The fragments are then vacuumed out via a small incision in the cornea and then replaced with an intraocular lens.

Vision improves over a 24 to 72 hour period, so you can return to normal activities when comfortable to do so. This includes watching TV, reading, writing and moderate exercise. However, you should not drive for at least 24 hours and avoid swimming and gardening for at least 3 days after surgery.

Post operative consultations with Dr Oakley are scheduled for the day after the procedure and either in the clinic one week after the procedure or by phone with Dr Oakley’s experienced clinical staff.  Follow-up consultations by your regular eye care practitioner occur between 4-6 weeks after the final procedure and then every 1-2 years, unless otherwise advised.

Glasses may be needed to correct any astigmatism or residual vision error, including reading glasses. Your regular eye care practitioner can prescribe these approximately 4-6 weeks following cataract surgery.