Cataract Surgery Specialists Brisbane
What are cataracts?
Our eyes do amazing and complex work to ensure that we see clearly. When we see an image, it’s because light entering our eyes is bent and focused by the eye’s lens to project that image on our retina.
As our eyes age, the proteins that make up the lens start to clump together and vision becomes increasingly cloudy. This may happen in one or both eyes and you may not initially notice subtle changes in your vision. But your cataracts will worsen over time and, if left untreated, may eventually lead to blindness.
What causes cataracts?
Cataracts are a natural part of the ageing process. If we’re lucky to live long enough, cataracts are likely to affect us all!
Sometimes cataracts can be present from birth, or arise from diabetes, inflammatory eye conditions, or long-term use of certain medications. This is known as early onset cataracts.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
You’re unlikely to see or feel your cataract, but common symptoms include:
- Cloudy, blurred or dim vision
- Trouble seeing at night
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescription
- Fading or yellowing of colours
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and think you might have cataracts, or your optometrist has identified cataracts during an eye examination, our ophthalmologists can help.
How are cataracts diagnosed?
During your consultation, we carefully examine your eyes using precision scans and measurements. If we find you do have cataracts, we’ll recommend the best treatment to help you achieve your lifestyle goals. Rest assured, you’ll have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you like.
How are cataracts treated?
When a clouded lens affects your vision and impacts your daily life, cataract surgery is the only option. We understand that surgery may sound daunting, but the good news is that cataract surgery is a routine procedure carried out on thousands of Australians every year.
During cataract surgery, your cloudy lens is carefully removed and replaced with a new clear artificial lens implant. This is called an intraocular lens or IOL. With a brand new lens in place, the light entering your eye may once again be bent and focused accurately on your retina, restoring your vision with life-changing results.
Did you know? Cataract surgery is the most common surgical procedure in the world. Around 250,000 surgeries are performed in Australia annually and more than 26,000,000 worldwide.
What type of artificial lens is right for me?
If your ophthalmologist recommends replacing your cloudy lens with an IOL, we’ll help you select the appropriate IOL type to match your vision goals.
Your IOL will be one-of-a-kind, and custom-made to the exact length and curve of your eye. If you wear glasses or contact lenses for near or far-sightedness (or both), a precision-made prescription IOL functions like an ‘internal pair of glasses’. This means your reliance on glasses or contact lenses may be reduced or even eliminated.
What happens during cataract surgery?
First, our nurses make sure you’re feeling comfortable. Then, our anaesthetic team gently administers sedation and local anaesthetic to your eye to ensure no eye movement or sensation.
During surgery, your clouded lens is carefully removed and replaced with your custom-made artificial lens. This typically takes 10 minutes and stitches are rarely required. Your eye is then covered with an eye shield and you’re monitored for a short time before a friend or relative is allowed to take you home.
You’ll have been given post-surgery care instructions and a script for eye drops when booking your surgery so you’ll be familiar with the details. By the next day, you can resume most normal activities and enjoy the best vision you’ve had in years!
How do I book my cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is performed as a day procedure and we typically operate on one eye at a time with a two-week interval. There are other options and we’ll discuss what works best for you.
Our friendly reception staff will book your surgery with you. And because we work from several private hospitals, you can choose the most convenient location for you.
After your initial consultation, you’ll have a take-home information pack. This includes all you need to know about your surgery booking. If you’re unsure of anything, just give us a call.
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Concerned about cataract surgery?
See what our satisfied patients have to say.
Dr Hann and his entire team provided me with impeccable professionalism, care and support throughout my recent cataract surgeries. Special shout-out to the vivacious Jennifer whose competency and assuring words at post-op appointments further enhanced my confidence and gratitude to Dr Hann’s practice. Thank you all!!!
Frequently asked questions.
We know it can be hard to find the right information about cataract surgery. And there are many decisions to be made. Here are some questions we’re frequently asked, but if you still need answers, just get in touch.
Prices for cataract surgery vary according to the hospital, health insurance policy, surgeon, anaesthetist, lens implant and individual circumstances. Rest assured, all costs will be discussed so you know exactly what to expect.
If your cataract surgery is medically necessary, Medicare will pay part of the cost. Out-of-pocket expenses will depend on individual circumstances and the type of lens implant you choose. We make sure you’re fully aware of Medicare coverage during your consultation.
Because the eye heals quickly, most patients can resume normal activities in just a few days. However, during this time it’s important to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise and keep your eye clean and dry.
Surgery can be performed at any stage of cataract development. Early-stage treatment means you can enjoy the benefits of clear sight sooner rather than later. So, there’s nothing to lose by having an early consultation to see if you’re suitable.
There are many types of IOLs available. Read our blog post for more information, or book your free consultation to find out which cataract lens is right for you.
Your cataract won’t return once removed but a condition called posterior capsular opacification (PCO) can occur. PCO can cause similar symptoms to your original cataract but can be easily addressed in our clinic with a fast and simple laser treatment called YAG laser capsulotomy.
Just as with any surgical procedure, cataract surgery carries some risks. We’ll carefully explain these at your first consultation and provide clear guidance all the way.
Put your vision in safe hands.
Book a call with our friendly team to get started.
