Your Questions About Cataract Surgery — Answered
If you’re considering cataract surgery or supporting a loved one through the process, it’s natural to have questions. At Precision Vision London, we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions to help you understand the procedure, recovery time, and what to expect before and after surgery. Trust our specialists to guide you with clear, expert information every step of the way.
1. What exactly is a cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, located behind the iris and pupil. This clouding scatters light, leading to blurry, hazy, or less colourful vision.
2. What causes cataracts?
Age is the primary cause. Other factors include UV exposure, smoking, diabetes, certain medications (e.g., steroids), eye injury, and family history.
3. How do I know if I have cataracts?
Symptoms include blurry vision, glare/halos around lights, faded colours, poor night vision, frequent prescription changes, and double vision in one eye. A comprehensive eye exam by an ophthalmologist is essential for diagnosis.
4. At what age do cataracts usually develop?
While most common in people over 60, cataracts can develop earlier (40s or 50s). Age-related cataracts progress gradually.
5. Can cataracts be prevented?
While not entirely preventable, wearing UV-protective sunglasses, not smoking, managing diabetes, and eating a diet rich in antioxidants may help delay onset.
6, How quickly do cataracts progress?
Progression varies significantly – months to years. Regular monitoring by your eye specialist is crucial.
7. When is the right time for cataract surgery?
Surgery is recommended when cataracts significantly impact your daily activities (driving, reading, hobbies) or quality of life, not just based on the cataract’s “ripeness.”
8. Can cataracts come back after surgery?
No. However, some patients develop “posterior capsule opacification” (PCO) months or years later, where the lens capsule holding the implant clouds. This is easily treated with a quick laser procedure (YAG capsulotomy).
9. What are my lens implant (IOL) options?
Monofocal: Corrects vision at one distance (usually distance). Reading glasses are typically needed. Toric Monofocal: Corrects astigmatism at one distance. Multifocal/Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF): Designed to reduce dependence on glasses for both distance and near vision. Light Adjustable Lens (LAL): Allows fine-tuning of the prescription after surgery.
10. How do I choose the right IOL for me?
This depends on your lifestyle, visual goals (e.g., desire for glasses independence), eye health, and budget. Your Precision Vision surgeon will discuss all options in detail during your consultation. “Choosing the Light Adjustable Lens allowed me to achieve perfect vision tailored precisely to my needs.” – Patient Testimonial
11. What is the difference between NHS and Private cataract surgery?
NHS covers standard monofocal IOLs and basic surgery. Private care offers advanced technology (laser-assisted surgery, premium IOLs like toric, multifocal, EDOF, LAL), faster access, more surgeon choice, and potentially a more personalised experience.
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12. What happens during cataract surgery?
It’s an outpatient procedure (usually 15-30 minutes per eye). The cloudy lens is broken up (using ultrasound or laser) and removed. A clear artificial IOL is then implanted. It’s typically painless.
13. Is cataract surgery painful?
No. Local anaesthetic (eye drops and/or injection) numbs the eye. You may feel slight pressure but no pain. Sedation is often available for relaxation.
14. What is laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS)?
A femtosecond laser performs key steps (corneal incisions, capsulotomy, lens fragmentation) with exceptional precision, potentially enhancing safety and accuracy, especially with premium IOLs. Precision Vision London utilises the latest femtosecond laser technology for optimal precision.
15. What type of anaesthesia is used?
Local anaesthesia (numbing drops/injection) is standard. You are awake but comfortable. Conscious sedation (IV medication) is often offered to help you relax.
16. Will I be awake during surgery?
Yes, typically you are awake but feel no pain. You will see lights and movement but not the details of the surgery.
17. How long does the surgery take?
The procedure itself usually takes 15-30 minutes per eye. Plan to be at the clinic for 2-3 hours for preparation and recovery.
18. Do you operate on both eyes at the same time?
Typically, no. Surgery is usually performed on one eye at a time, with the second eye done 1-2 weeks later. This allows the first eye to heal and confirms the desired outcome.
19. How do I prepare for cataract surgery?
You’ll have a pre-operative assessment. Stop certain medications (e.g., blood thinners, as advised). Use prescribed antibiotic eye drops beforehand. Arrange transportation.
20. What is recovery like after cataract surgery?
Most patients resume light activities within 24 hours. Vision is often blurry initially. Full stabilisation takes several weeks. Avoid strenuous activity, rubbing the eye, swimming, and dusty environments initially.
21. What restrictions will I have after surgery?
Avoid heavy lifting (>20 lbs), bending over, swimming, eye rubbing, and dusty/dirty environments for 1-2 weeks. Wear the protective shield at night as instructed.
22. How long before I can drive?
You must meet the DVLA vision standard and feel confident. This is usually 24-48 hours after surgery for the first eye if vision is good, but wait until cleared by your surgeon. Driving after the second eye often takes a few days.
23. Will I need to use eye drops after surgery?
Yes. You’ll use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops for several weeks to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Compliance is crucial.
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24. How soon will my vision improve?
Many notice improvement within 24 hours, though vision may fluctuate. It continues to sharpen over days to weeks as the eye heals. Premium IOLs may take longer to adapt to.
25. When can I return to work?
Most office-based jobs can resume within a few days. Physically demanding jobs may require 1-2 weeks. Discuss with your surgeon.
26. Can I fly after cataract surgery?
Usually, yes, within a few days, but confirm with your surgeon. Cabin air can be dry, so use lubricating drops.
27. Is cataract surgery safe?
Yes, it’s one of the safest and most commonly performed surgeries worldwide with a very high success rate. However, like all surgery, risks exist.
28. What are the potential risks and complications?
Serious complications are rare (<1-2%). They include infection (endophthalmitis), retinal detachment, inflammation, swelling (cystoid macular edema), bleeding, increased eye pressure, dislocation of the IOL, and persistent vision issues. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail.
29. How common are complications?
The vast majority of cataract surgeries are successful without significant complications. Choosing an experienced surgeon minimises risks.
30. What is endophthalmitis?
A rare but serious infection inside the eye. Strict adherence to pre/post-op drop regimen and sterile technique during surgery minimise this risk.
31. Will cataract surgery correct my astigmatism?
Standard monofocal IOLs do not. Toric IOLs or Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRIs) performed during surgery can correct astigmatism.
32. Can cataract surgery help with presbyopia (need for reading glasses)?
Yes, multifocal, EDOF, or accommodating IOLs are specifically designed to reduce dependence on reading glasses. Monovision (setting one eye for distance, one for near) is another option.
33. How much does private cataract surgery cost at Precision Vision London?
Costs vary depending on the IOL type (standard monofocal, toric, multifocal/EDOF, LAL) and technology used (laser-assisted). A detailed personalised quote will be provided after your consultation. Prices typically start from £3250 per eye for standard private surgery. Contact us for a tailored quote.
34. Does insurance cover cataract surgery?
Private medical insurance may cover cataract surgery if deemed medically necessary, often only for standard monofocal IOLs. Premium IOLs and laser-assisted surgery are usually not covered. Check your specific policy.
35. What technology do you use for cataract surgery?
We invest in the latest technology for precision and safety, including:
- Advanced Biometry (IOL Master 700, Lenstar): For highly accurate IOL power calculations.
- Femtosecond Laser (e.g., LenSx, Victus): For laser-assisted steps (incisions, capsulotomy, fragmentation).
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): For detailed eye imaging pre/post-op.
- ORA (Optiwave Refractive Analysis) System: Real-time refractive measurement during surgery to optimise IOL power selection (especially for premium lenses and astigmatism correction).
Why choose Precision Vision for Laser Eye Treatment?
Precision Vision London sets the standard in laser eye treatments, with Advanced Wavefront technology used in all our procedures, ensuring our patients always get the best results.. Our clinic features the world’s highest-performance eye laser for refractive and therapeutic corneal surgery. Both FDA-approved laser vision correction treatments, Lasik and Lasek, are offered at our clinic.
Precision Vision London is committed to providing truly personalised treatment plans, uniquely tailored for each eye of every patient. Dr. Pillai, our Medical Director and laser surgeon, stands as one of the pioneering surgeons in the UK to execute bilateral Lasik treatment, treating both eyes on the same day. With over 30 years of experience as an ophthalmic surgeon, Dr. Pillai specialises in refractive and corneal procedures, ensuring the highest level of expertise and care for our patients.
In cases where laser treatment is deemed unsuitable for a patient, Precision Vision London provides alternative treatment options to correct their prescription. With the country's largest independent optometrist network, patients have the flexibility to receive treatment at the Harley Street clinic and convenient aftercare at a location closer to them. Our commitment to transparency extends to pricing, ensuring that all patients, regardless of the complexity of their prescription, pay the same price for our services.
36. What are the benefits of ORA technology?
ORA provides real-time measurements during surgery, allowing your surgeon to fine-tune the IOL power selection for your eye’s unique characteristics at that moment. This enhances accuracy, especially for premium IOLs and patients with previous laser eye surgery. “Using ORA gives us an extra layer of precision to achieve the best possible visual outcome for each patient.” – Precision Vision Surgeon
37. Who are the surgeons at Precision Vision London?
Our cataract surgeons are highly experienced, UK-trained Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeons. They hold full registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) and are Fellows of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth) or equivalent, with subspecialty expertise in cataract and refractive surgery. They perform high volumes of surgery annually. (Link to Surgeons’ Bios)
38. How experienced are your surgeons?
Our surgeons have collectively performed tens of thousands of successful cataract procedures. They are leaders in their field, often involved in teaching and adopting the latest techniques. “I felt completely confident knowing my surgeon had performed this procedure thousands of times.” – Patient Testimonial
39. Do you offer consultations?
Yes, a comprehensive consultation with one of our Consultant Surgeons is essential. This includes detailed scans, measurements, and a discussion of your options and expectations. Book online or call us.
40. Will I still need glasses after surgery?
This depends on the IOL chosen and your visual goals. With standard monofocal IOLs, glasses are usually needed for reading and often for distance. Premium IOLs (multifocal, EDOF, LAL) significantly reduce dependence on glasses. Toric IOLs reduce dependence on glasses for astigmatism correction.
41. How long will the lens implant last?
The IOL is designed to last a lifetime and does not “wear out.”
42. Can I have cataract surgery if I’ve had LASIK/PRK before?
Yes, absolutely. Special calculations are required to determine the correct IOL power. Advanced biometry and technologies like ORA are particularly valuable in these cases. Our surgeons have extensive experience with this.
43. Can cataract surgery be combined with other procedures?
Sometimes, yes. It can occasionally be combined with minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) or corneal procedures, depending on your specific needs. Your surgeon will advise.
44. Will colours look different after surgery?
Yes! Many patients report colours appearing brighter and more vivid as the yellow/brown tint of the cataract is removed.
45. How often will I need follow-up appointments?
Typically: 1 day post-op, 1 week post-op, 4-6 weeks post-op. More if needed.
46. What if I’m not happy with my vision after surgery?
Discuss any concerns immediately with your surgeon. Refinement options like YAG laser (for PCO), laser vision enhancement (e.g., LASIK/PRK), or in rare cases, IOL exchange may be possible.
47. Can cataracts affect both eyes?
Yes, almost always, though they may develop at different rates.
48. Why choose Precision Vision London for cataract surgery?
- Expert Surgeons: Highly experienced, specialist Consultant Surgeons.
- Advanced Technology: Cutting-edge diagnostics, femtosecond laser, ORA system for ultimate precision.
- Comprehensive IOL Options: Full range including standard, toric, multifocal, EDOF, and Light Adjustable Lenses.
- Personalised Care: Tailored treatment plan focused on your unique visual goals.
- Exceptional Facilities: State-of-the-art clinic and surgical centre.
- Patient-Centred Approach: Compassionate support throughout your journey. “From the first consultation to my final check-up, the team at Precision Vision made me feel informed and cared for every step of the way.” – Patient Testimonial
49. How do I book a consultation?
Taking the first step is easy. Call us on +02038846805, book online via our website, or email info@precisionvisionlondon.com. Our friendly team is ready to assist you.
Life-Changing Laser Eye Surgery in Harley Street London
At Precision Vision London, we offer expert-led, cost-effective laser eye surgery designed to give you the freedom of clear vision. As a trusted, independent clinic, we specialise in advanced vision correction procedures tailored to your unique needs—helping 100% of our patients achieve 20/20 vision or better.
Experience world-class laser eye surgery in London, performed by leading ophthalmologists using cutting-edge technology. Our expert team, including Dr. CT Pillai, a globally recognised surgeon with over 30 years of experience and 50,000+ successful procedures, is dedicated to delivering exceptional vision correction with precision and care.
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