About Cataract Surgery

What are Cataracts?

Causes of Cataracts

Cataracts are a condition where the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy. Cataracts usually develop slowly with age, but they can also be caused by injury, certain medical conditions, or long-term use of some medications. They are common and can usually be treated effectively with surgery to replace the cloudy lens.

Symptoms of Cataracts

The cloudy lens reduces how much light can pass through.

• Blurry or cloudy vision
• Increased sensitivity to light and glare
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Colours appearing faded or yellowed

Normal Vision

Vision with Cataracts

Significant Cataracts

What is Cataract Surgery?

Common and Safe Procedure

Cataract surgery is a common and safe procedure used to treat cataracts by removing the cloudy lens of the eye and replacing it with a clear artificial lens (called an intraocular lens). It is usually done under local anaesthetic, so the patient is awake but the eye is numbed. The surgeon makes a very small incision in the eye, breaks up and removes the cloudy lens, and then inserts the new lens in its place. The procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes, and most people can go home the same day. Vision often improves within a few days, with full recovery over several weeks.

Cataract Surgery Facts

• The most common surgery in the UK
• Usually takes 15-30 minutes
• Can be done under local anaesthetic
• Most people go home the same day
• Cataracts do not come back after surgery

Cataract Surgery Pathway

1. Initial Consultation

The initial consultation confirms whether cataract surgery is needed and suitable. It involves diagnosis, collecting measurement, and consenting for the procedure.

2. Theatre Visit

Cataract surgery is usually conducted as a day case procedure. You are normally able to go home on the same day.

3. Theatre follow up

The follow-up appointment ensures the eye is healing properly and vision is improving. It usually takes place 1-2 weeks after the theatre.

Cataract Surgery With Ms Tara Lane

A cornea specialist ophthalmologist, like Ms Lane, focuses on the front of the eye, where cataract surgery is performed. This includes the cornea, natural lens, and implanted intraocular lens. This specialist expertise allows for accurate assessment, careful surgical planning, and optimal vision following cataract surgery.

Ms Lane has performed thousands of cataract surgeries. She routinely and expertly assesses the measurements, completes the lens calculations, and performs the surgery.

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