Is cataract surgery right for me?
There are lot of misconceptions about cataracts, and at Medownick Laser Eye Clinic we want to you be as informed as possible about the removal of cataracts, and your potential to regain clear vision.
For example, a cataract is not a ‘film’ over the eye, it’s not caused by eye strain, and nor is it able to spread from one eye to the other. It’s definitely not cancerous, and nor will it cause irreversible blindness. It is a common condition that is entirely treatable by modern eye surgery techniques – which Medownick has been performing since it set up practice at the Epworth in 1984.
How do cataracts develop?
Cataracts develop as part of the body’s natural ageing process, usually once a person turns 40. You may also be affected if you have had long-term, unprotected exposure to sunlight, or there is a family history of cataracts. Medical issues, such as diabetes, or medication use, such as steroids, can also be a factor, as can a current or previous eye injury. Laser eye surgery does not cause cataracts to develop.
It’s impossible to predict exactly how fast a cataract develops in any given person, but for many people it is a gradual process that often goes unnoticed at first. The exception is cataracts that develop in younger people or for people suffering from diabetes, as cataracts in these cases can progress rapidly over a few months.
Once cataracts have formed, surgery is the only way to remove them.
Am I suitable for cataract surgery?
The earlier cataracts are detected and removed the better, as you will instantly enjoy improved vision. That said, a cataract operation should be considered when the loss of functional vision caused by cataracts begins to interfere with your daily life, like driving at night, or reading.
Every situation we treat is unique, so if you are unsure whether cataract eye surgery is for you, we encourage you to book a no-obligation assessment. Together we will decide on the timing of your cataract surgery, based on the symptoms you are experiencing and the general health and wellbeing of your eyes.
Cataract surgery at Medownick
The results of cataract surgery are impressive, with a patient success rate exceeding 99 per cent; in some cases, sight is restored immediately.
Not all cataract operations are created equal, however, and many clinics still use traditional techniques such as injecting the area around your eye, and using stitches on the surface of your eye. This can be painful and will almost certainly cause bruising, or a ‘black eye’. In this day and age, it’s also unnecessary.
At Medownick Laser Eye Clinic, we use a virtually invisible and painless technique called Low Stress Cataract® surgery, where an intraocular lens is implanted in the eye. This procedure requires a high degree of surgical skill, and takes only 10 to 15 minutes. The other added benefits are that, in most cases, no injections are needed, while the self-sealing incision requires no stitches and will not cause distortion to the shape of your eyeball.
We also offer a procedure called Multifocal ReFocus cataract surgery that combines cataract and multifocal corrective surgery. If you’re interested, we encourage you to come in for a free consultation to discuss your individual situation with our expert team.
Next: Cataract surgery for multifocal wearers
Interest-free offer
Laser eye surgery is an investment in you. It’s why we offer interest-free payment plans over six, 12 or 18 months to suitable candidates.
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