Cataract – Frequently asked questions
Why have I developed cataract?
The ageing of the lens inside the eye is normal, like the rest of the body.
Am I young to have developed cataract?
Cataracts can develop at any age. Some new-born infants have cataracts from birth and may need surgery as early as the first week of life.
Is cataract surgery safe?
When performed by a skilled specialist cataract surgeon with modern equipment, small-incision surgery has a low risk of serious complication (1 in 1000).
About the consultation :
How long does the consultation take?
Mr Reddy spends as long as is necessary to assess your eye and will explain in detail about the procedure until you have no further queries. Typically, this may take 30-40 minutes.
What happens at the initial consultation appointment?
You will be assessed by Mr Reddy in person. A detailed assessment of your vision and a full eye examination will be followed by advanced laser interferometry assessment. Dilating drops will be used to help assess the cataract and health of the retina. Your vision may be blurred for a number of hours. Mr Reddy will then advise you if an operation is required. If an operation is planned, Mr Reddy will recommend suitable intraocular lens implants that suit your individual requirements
About the procedure :
Does the procedure hurt?
There is no pain during the procedure, though there may be a feeling of pressure.
Can I have both eyes treated on the same day?
Most often, the surgery is performed to one eye at a time. Internationally some surgeons operate on both eyes in one treatment session. Mr Reddy will give individual advice.
How long does the cataract operation take?
Normally you will be in the theatre suite for a total of 20-30 minutes. You will need to be able to lie on your back for that period. Extra back support is provided for those who need it.
Will I need to be in Aberdeen overnight?
Cataract surgery is performed as a day case procedure. You will need to check in 1 hour before the scheduled time of operation. You can leave for home within an hour of the operation.
About after treatment :
How quickly will I see after surgery?
Normally the vision is slightly out of focus immediately after surgery. Clarity of vision will improve from the next day and continue to improve up to 4 weeks.
When can I drive?
Mr Reddy will advise depending upon your individual circumstances, with most people driving again only after both eyes have been treated. When only one eye is being treated driving usually commences a few days after surgery.
When can I work?
This depends upon your occupation. Most people with office-based occupations resume work within a few days or a week. Those who work in a dusty environment may need two to three weeks off work.
Are there any restrictions on physical activity immediately after cataract surgery?
Swimming is the only activity not advisable for up to 2 weeks after cataract surgery. Mild form of exercise and house work is acceptable. Mr Reddy will advise you on any specific activities you intend to partake in.
What are the possible complications?
Mr Reddy has an excellent track record for achieving a very low complication rate for cataract surgery. However, all surgery carries some risk.
Serious complications that can permanently affect vision are fortunately rare. Lesser complications (that are treatable or which resolve over time) occur at about 1%. About 0.1% (1 in 1000) may lose some degree of vision as a result of a complication attributed to surgery.
For most people the quality of vision achieved after surgery is positively life changing. However, all cataract surgery has some degree of unpredictability.