Treating cataracts in Melbourne
Fed up with blurred vision, glare or trouble seeing at night? Cataracts could be the culprit. For suitable patients, cataract surgery may help restore clearer vision and support long-term eye health.
Cataracts occur when the eye’s natural lens loses its transparency, usually with age. This clouding causes vision to become dull, blurry or dim. Left untreated, cataracts worsen over time and can eventually lead to vision loss.
But here’s the bright side: Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed procedures in Australia, with a well-established clinical track record.
During a cataract operation, we replace your cloudy lenses with clear artificial lenses (IOLs). This can help restore clarity and, depending on your chosen lens and vision needs, may also reduce your dependence on glasses.
As with any surgery, suitability and outcomes vary. We take the time to assess your eyes carefully and talk you through your options, so you can make an informed decision about treatment.
We don’t want to get too technical about it. But when you’re considering a cataract procedure that replaces your natural lens with an artificial one, it’s good to know what’s going on.
In a young eye, the natural crystalline lens is transparent, so light entering the eye passes straight through it. As we age, the proteins in the eye’s lens start to break down and clump together. Light can’t easily pass through these protein clumps and is scattered instead. This is the cause of blurry vision.
Most cataracts are related to age, but genetics can play a role. Certain medical conditions can also increase the risk, as can eye injuries and the use of some medications like steroids.
DIAGNOSIS & EXAMINATION
During your consultation, we’ll use detailed diagnostic tests and scans to assess whether cataracts are present and if surgery may be appropriate, based on your eye health, vision needs and symptoms.
If so, we’ll tell you all about cataract removal and discuss your artificial lens options.
It’s important to see an eye specialist if you experience the visual effects of cataracts. Early assessment can help us monitor changes and discuss appropriate treatment options if needed.
TREATMENT
When it comes to treating cataracts, surgery is currently the definitive treatment once they begin to affect your daily life. Rest assured, modern cataract surgery is safe and effective for most patients and is performed on around 250,000 Australians every year.
The cataract operation is typically performed as a day procedure in-hospital under local anaesthetic. It involves gently replacing your cloudy natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL) selected to suit your eye measurements, lifestyle and visual priorities. In general, the procedure itself takes around 30 minutes, and most patients are able to return home within several hours.
RECOVERY
Many people experience clearer vision the day following surgery, although recovery timelines vary from patient to patient and your post-operative care is designed to support safe healing and visual stability.
Depending on the type of lens used and your individual response, cataract surgery may reduce your reliance on glasses or contact lenses, making everyday activities easier.
After cataract surgery, side effects may include blurry vision, dry/gritty eyes, light sensitivity and halos, and while these are generally mild and temporary, for some people visual recovery can take several days. Not everyone is suitable for cataract surgery and visual outcomes vary.
Cataract surgery is a big moment, and it’s completely normal to feel a mix of anticipation and nerves. Our experienced cataract surgeons take a calm, thoughtful approach, combining clinical expertise with genuine care to help you feel supported throughout your journey.
Ophthalmologist with special interest and expertise in vision correction surgery
Not everyone is suitable for cataract surgery. Your suitability, experience and results will depend on your eyes, your health, and how you heal. All medical and surgical procedures carry potential risks and side effects, and we’ll discuss these before any decisions are made. The information on this page is general in nature, and you should consult your ophthalmologist for specific medical advice.
