YOUR PATH TO CLARITY STARTS HERE

What is a Cataract?

Cataract refers to a clouding of the natural lens in the eye, which leads to a progressive loss of vision. The lens, located behind the iris, helps focus light onto the retina, allowing us to see clearly.

When a cataract develops, the lens becomes cloudy and interferes with the passage of light, causing vision problems.

With modern surgical techniques you don’t have to wait until the cataract becomes “ripe”. Earlier surgery gives you the opportunity to reduce your dependence on glasses.

The primary treatment for cataracts is surgery. During the procedure, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).

Cataract surgery is generally safe and highly successful, with a high rate of improved vision and a low risk of complications.

How is it performed?

I use modern ‘keyhole” microsurgery (phacoemulsification) techniques to perform the surgery. I practice in the NHS and have over 20 years of experience. Nearly all cases are done by using drops to numb the eye with no injections required. I use the latest technology which allows safe and effective removal of your cataract and a quicker recovery.

What are your options?

This is your once in a lifetime opportunity to improve your vision and correct your glasses prescription. Critical to this success is the correct choice of lens implant. The choices will be tailored to your needs and include multifocal (trifocal), toric (astigmatism correction), and extended range of focus (EDOF) lenses.

Cataract surgery is performed at Lytham and Lancaster locations (view maps here)

Cataract Surgery FAQs

  • At your consultation I will ask you about your eye problems and general health. It is useful to bring any optician’s report with you.

    In order to examine your eye, I will use dilating drops, which means you will not be able to drive home from this appointment.

    You will have additional tests to measure your eye to help choose the correct lens, tailored to you. I endeavour to try and perform all tests in one visit but, in some cases, this is not always possible.

    I will create a bespoke treatment plan and discuss your options during the consultation and also a detailed letter will follow, with no obligation to proceed with surgery.

    • STANDARD MONOFOCAL

    These lenses are similar to those used in the NHS. They focus the eye at a single distance.

    Most patients undergoing monofocal IOLs choose to be spectacle free for distance and wear glasses for reading.

    • INCREASED RANGE OF FOCUS

    These lenses use special technology to increase the depth of focus. Most patients will be able to see in the distance and also use a computer or tablet without glasses. You are likely to still need reading glasses for anything smaller.

    These lenses are also called monofocal plus or extended depth of focus (EDOF) lenses.

    • FULL RANGE OF FOCUS

    These lenses use advanced technology to provide a full range of focus, in the hope that you will never need glasses for everyday living. They are not suitable for all patients and it is important you have a thorough examination. I will advise you which option is best for you.

    These lenses are called multifocal and trifocal lenses.

  • Most patients see a significant improvement in vision in the first few days after surgery.

    Driving can be resumed as soon as you feel comfortable and it is considered safe to do so. This can be possible a few days after surgery.

    Your return to work depends on the nature of your job. This can be within a few days for an office-based job but longer if it is in a dusty environment.

  • Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest procedures, with millions performed each year. No surgery is without risk but the risk of you losing your eyesight, is less than 1 in 10,000.

    To enquire, please book a consultation here.