What is a Cataract?
A cataract is the lens of the eye that has become cloudy, preventing light from focussing on the retina and thereby resulting in blurred vision.
 LEFT:The normal clear lens allows light to focus on the retina |
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What are the Symptoms of a Cataract? Blurred or double vision, glare and haloes around lights (particularly when night driving), dulling of colours, and frequent changing of spectacle prescription may occur. Because the visual loss can be very gradual, sometimes the individual may not be always aware of the presence of a cataract.
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What are the Treatment Options? Early cataracts that are not causing any visual problems may be simply observed, or can sometimes be managed with a change of spectacles. If, however, you are having visual difficulties then you will need to consider cataract surgery, ie removal of the cloudy lens and replacement with a clear artificial lens (implant) - these days, one no longer has to wait for the lens to become "ripe".
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How is the Cataract Removed? Ultrasound is used to break the cataract into small fragments that are then aspirated from the eye through a small incision (that does not usually require any stitches for closure). The new (foldable) implant is then injected through the same incision into the eye, where it unfurls into its correct position.
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Will I Still Need to Wear Glasses? The implant inserted after cataract removal is a miniature lens that, like a spectacle lens, is manufactured in different optical strengths. The dimensions of the eye are measured before surgery and used to calculate the power of the implant to be used, usually in an attempt to provide good distance vision without the need for spectacles (spectacles still usually required for near vision). In this way, longstanding long- and short-sightedness can be also corrected by the surgery. Multifocal implants (ReSTOR, ReZoom), however, are also now available, that provide a range of focus after surgery, thereby allowing the individual to see near and far, providing true and complete spectacle independence!
Are There Any Risks? Cataract surgery is a highly safe, successful and predictable procedure, but as with any operation, there are risks that will be fully discussed at your initial consultation.
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How Much Does It Cost? The cost of the initial consultation is £140. All-inclusive fixed-price packages, should you wish to proceed, start from £1950 per eye. |