Day Surgery (Cataract & Plastic Surgery)

Surgery is the only way to remove a cataract. Although it is a common misconception, lasers are not used to remove a cataract.

How is cataract surgery performed?

Cataract surgery is performed in the hospital operating theatre with local anaesthesia, although occasionally general anaesthesia is preferred. The cataract is removed using a microscope and miniature instruments. In most cases, an intraocular lens is implanted in the eye to restore the focusing power of the natural lens. If an introcular lens is not implanted, cataract glasses or a contact lens will be needed after surgery. Most patients go home from the hospital on the day of surgery, although some prefer an overnight stay.

What can I expect after surgery?

The bandage will be removed from the eye on the day after surgery. Eye drops will be needed for several weeks. Occasionally, tablets are needed if the eye pressure is high. The amount of physical activity allowed after surgery is variable. The eye may be slightly red and tender, but severe pain is not to be expected. Depending on the preference of your surgeon, stitches may need to be removed from the eye several weeks after surgery. This can be done painlessly in the office.

Visual recovery is variable. Some patients see very well a few days after surgery, while for others improvement may take several weeks. A change in glasses is generally made several weeks after surgery. Most patients still need glasses after cataract surgery for some activities, particularly reading.

What are the risks and complications of cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is generally very safe. However, as with any surgical procedure, occasional complications do occur and a good result cannot be guaranteed. Your vision after surgery will depend on the health of the eye.

Normally observed side effects

• Pain - mild discomfort or irritation is usual for a few days after surgery. Severe pain is unusual and can indicate the presence of high pressure in the eye or infection.
• Light sensitivity and glare - as the dark cataract is replaced with a perfectly clear implanted lens, more light can get into the eye after surgery. It may take some time to adjust to this. One advantage of this is that colours can seem much brighter than they were before.