What is cataract surgery? How can it help me see clearly again? These are two very common questions. Cataracts are one of the most prolific causes of vision changes in Australia, especially as we get older. They can make your world look blurry or colours appear less vibrant.
Cataract surgery offers a proven and effective way to restore clarity and improve daily life, and Murdoch Eye Centre provides this with expert care.
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which lies just behind the iris and pupil. Over time, proteins in the lens begin to clump, causing blurry or hazy vision. You might notice:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Glare or halos around lights (especially when driving at night)
- Colours appear faded or yellowed
- Double vision in one eye
Cataracts usually develop gradually, and many people do not realise they have them until their sight changes noticeably. Early on, stronger lighting or new glasses may help, but eventually, daily tasks become more difficult.
How Common Are Cataracts in Australia?
Cataracts are extremely common in Australia, especially among older adults. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), over 700,000 Australians live with cataracts, with the risk increasing sharply after the age of 60. A recent study showed that more than 70% of Australians aged over 80 have significant vision loss from cataracts.
The good news is that cataract surgery in Australia is one of the most successful procedures, with over 250,000 operations performed annually and a high rate of restored vision. Most people experience a dramatic improvement in their sight and quality of life.
When Should You Consider Cataract Surgery?
It’s time to consider cataract surgery when your vision loss begins to impact daily activities like reading, driving, recognising faces, or enjoying hobbies. You don’t have to wait until you can barely see; early intervention leads to safer, simpler surgery and better results.
Regular eye exams are essential. Your optometrist or GP can detect cataracts before you notice symptoms. Early diagnosis means you can discuss treatment options and plan the best time for surgery together.
Learn more: The Difference Between an Ophthalmologist and Optometrist: Which Do You Need?
How Is Cataract Surgery Performed?
For many people, the idea of surgery can feel daunting. Rest assured, modern cataract surgery in Perth is quick, routine, and almost painless. Here is what you can expect:
Step 1: Preparation and Anaesthesia
Before surgery, the surgeon carefully measures your eye to select the ideal artificial lens. On the day, you’ll receive anaesthetic eye drops to numb the area. You’ll remain awake but relaxed, with light sedation to keep you comfortable.
Step 2: Removal of the Cloudy Lens
The surgeon makes a tiny incision at the edge of your cornea (less than 2.5 mm). Through this, a special device uses gentle ultrasonic vibration (phacoemulsification) to break up and remove the cloudy lens.
Step 3: Inserting the Intraocular Lens (IOL)
The surgeon replaces the natural lens with a clear artificial Intr-Ocular lens (IOL) that focuses light onto the retina, restoring sight. The small incision usually heals without stitches. Most surgeries take under 30 minutes, and you can go home the same day.
Lens Implant Options: Restoring and Enhancing Your Vision
Before the surgeon removes the cloudy lens and implants a new one, you can choose from several options:
- Monofocal lenses: These are the standard option and provide clear vision at one distance (usually for distance vision). You will still need glasses for reading.
- Extended depth of Focus (EDOF) lenses: These offer improved range of vision but do not guarantee reading vision unless set specifically for near vision (and blurred for distance). A mix and match for distance and reading can be used in some cases.
- Multifocal lenses: These premium lenses offer clear vision at multiple distances, reducing your need for glasses or contacts. Both distance and reading can be seen without glasses being required.
- Toric lenses: If you have astigmatism, toric lenses can correct both the cataract and the astigmatism in one step.
Discuss your lifestyle and vision needs with your surgeon to choose the right lens for you. Many people gain greater freedom from glasses after receiving premium lens implants.
Recovery and Results: What to Expect
Vision often starts to improve within a few days of surgery, and most people notice a significant difference almost immediately. Full recovery usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks, and discomfort is generally minor, often limited to mild dryness or irritation in the hours after surgery.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Use prescribed eye drops as directed to prevent infection and control inflammation.
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a few weeks.
- Don’t rub or press on your eye.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your healing eye from bright light and dust.
Some side effects, like temporary blurriness or sensitivity, are normal and usually settle quickly. If you experience persistent pain, loss of vision, or severe redness, contact your surgeon immediately.
Most patients can return to work, drive, and resume daily activities within a few days. After your eye heals, you might need an updated prescription for glasses to achieve your best possible vision.
Why Choose Murdoch Eye Centre for Cataract Surgery Perth?
Murdoch Eye Centre offers expert, compassionate care for every step of your journey. Our lead surgeon, Dr Phil McGeorge, is internationally recognised for advancing cataract and refractive surgery in Australia.
With over 25 years of experience, he uses the latest techniques and technology to ensure you receive the safest, most effective treatment possible.
A word from our founder:
“Cataract removal is one of the most common operations performed in Australia. It’s one of the safest and most effective types of surgery. You and your eye care professional can make this decision together. At Murdoch Eye Centre, we provide the best eye care possible in a comfortable, caring environment recognised as one of the leading cataract centres in Perth.”
— Dr Phillip McGeorge
Let Clarity Transform Your Life
If you’re asking yourself, “What is cataract surgery?” and wondering whether it’s right for you, remember that this procedure can restore your sight and improve your quality of life. At Murdoch Eye Centre, we perform the cataract surgery Perth patients trust in a safe and welcoming setting. Our results are highly successful, helping you return to the things you love.
Call us on (08) 6245 6909 or email [email protected] to book your appointment, and visit our Murdoch or Subiaco clinics and let us help you bring focus back to your life.
