Understanding Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery, also known as lens replacement surgery, involves removing the eye's natural lens when it becomes cloudy due to cataracts, which affects nearly half of people over 65. This surgery is one of the most frequently performed procedures in the UK.

Procedure Overview:

Duration: Approximately 25 to 30 minutes per eye, performed as a day case.
Anaesthesia: Local
Incision: Small cut of around 2.5 mm to remove the lens using ultrasound and laser.
Artificial Lens: Made of non-reactive materials like silicone or acrylic, replacing the natural lens.

Candidate Suitability

Prevalence: Nearly 1 in 2 individuals over 65 have cataracts affecting vision.
Symptoms: Blurred vision, difficulty with daily tasks, glasses not improving sight.
Impact: Cataracts can lead to falls and injuries. Surgery significantly improves vision and quality of life.

Surgical Procedure

Pre-Surgery Assessment

Extensive tests and measurements to evaluate vision and eye health.
Review of medical history and conditions.

During Surgery

Local anaesthesia ensures a pain-free procedure.
Small incisions of 2-3 mm allow removal of the cataract using phacoemulsification and laser.
Placement of an artificial lens within the eye's natural capsule.

Post-Surgery Care

Anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops for at least two weeks.
Avoid soap near eyes and strenuous activities for at least one week.
Wear a protective eye shield at night for two weeks.
Driving can resume once legally safe.

Post-Surgery Expectations

Vision Improvement: Begins within a few days, though initial blurred vision is common.

Complications:

Bloodshot eyes, temporary eye pressure increase, cystoid macular oedema, refractive surprise, posterior capsule rupture, corneal decompensation, and rare cases of retinal detachment.
Most complications are manageable with medication or minor procedures.

Surgery Cost

The cost for cataract surgery at Optimal Vision starts from £2300 per eye, with flexible payment plans available.

Reasons to Choose Optimal Vision

Experienced Consultants: Providing personalised treatment plans.
Advanced Technology: State-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
Affordable Packages: Designed to meet various financial needs.
Proven Success: High patient satisfaction and positive referrals.

FAQs

What are cataracts?

Cataracts are a cloudiness of the eye's natural lens, commonly affecting people over 50 but can occur in younger individuals due to congenital conditions.

How does the surgery work?

The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a synthetic lens designed to improve vision.

When is the right time for surgery?

When cataracts significantly affect daily activities such as reading and driving.

Pain during surgery?

Minimal to no pain, with local anaesthesia used to ensure comfort.

For more detailed information or to book a consultation, call us at 0121 798 0205.

I had a great experience performing my laser eye surgery at Optimal Vision Clinic. All the staffs are very helpful, co-operative and supportive throughout the treatment process. On the first call, they explained the entire procedure in details and gave necessary instructions at every stage. My eye surgeon made me feel comfortable and relaxed before and during the procedure. Aftercare was done properly with a thorough check-up of my eyes. I would like to recommend this clinic to everyone!

Debra Virginia

Very happy and impressed with the highly professional care and service I’ve received at the Optimal Vision clinic. Dr Mani is so professional, and he explained everything about Laser surgery and answered all my questions. The surgery was quick and almost completely painless. My eyes have healed perfectly and quickly. I would highly recommend this clinic.

Samira Emadi

My husband had been experiencing discomfort in his left eye since July and was seen by various doctors/consultants even at the Queen Mary’s hospital but no abnormalities were found.
This week Dr. Mani discovered the fault which happened to be Retina detachment with three tears.
Dr. Mani’s preciseness and his perfectionist attitude to attention to details, detected the source of the main issue and saved my husband’s eye. We feel utterly grateful and can not recommend him enough for his excellence.

Shirin Amani Azari