Cataract surgery

The lens of the eye is a small transparent disc. As light passes through the lens, it is focused onto a specific part of the back of the eye (the retina). This is part of the process that gives us normal, healthy vision. A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of your eye. It blocks light from passing through the lens, causing our vision to become blurred, distorted and unclear.

Cataract surgery is a quick and simple operation to restore vision by replacing the natural, cloudy lens of the eye with a new, artificial one. It is an excellent operation and one that really can make a huge difference to anyone who has been struggling with vision loss caused by a cataract.

Cataract surgery is one of the most widely performed surgical procedures in the world. During that time, we have had the privilege of seeing many thousands of people benefit from having their sight improved.

Cataract surgery is considered a very safe operation. By surgical standards it is a ‘quick’ operation, normally only taking 15 minutes or so. During the surgery, the surgeon makes a tiny incision into the eye to remove the lens which has become cloudy (the cataract). An artificial lens implant is then inserted in its place.

The surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, meaning you should be able to return home after a few hours. It can take time for your vision to readjust, so I always recommend you have a friend or family member to accompany you home afterwards. You should not drive yourself home.

Lens technology has come in leaps and bounds in recent years, and there are several different lens types to choose from depending on your particular requirements. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, treatment can be tailored to your exact requirements.

Monofocal lenses are the most commonly used lenses.

If you want to reduce your reliance on reading glasses, multifocal lenses are available. They give multiple focal points in distant and near vision, and some of the very newest lenses cover intermediate vision too. While these lenses are very successful, there is a degree of compromise: some patients perceive glare and 'haloes' around lights, particularly at night. These effects often improve with time, but a minority of people can find this troublesome.

Toric lenses are designed to help astigmatism (where the front of your eye is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football). A small degree of astigmatism is very common and almost normal, but if you have a higher than normal degree of astigmatism, you may need a toric implant. Both monofocal and multifocal lenses are available in a toric form.

Unfortunately, a cataract cannot be treated with glasses, contact lenses, laser eye surgery, medication or exercise. Thankfully, cataract surgery is available, and it is one of the most established (and safest) operations in the UK, with a very high success rate.

Our operating theatres are bright, spacious and equipped with the latest technology to support the skills of our ophthalmic surgeons.

The ophthalmology consultants insert the best-performing premium, multifocal and toric intraocular lenses. The Specialist Eye Unit provides individually tailored care; your surgeon will select the lens implant that best suits your eyes, lifestyle and visual needs.

Eye problems can make it difficult to read, work and drive. Long waits for eye surgery can allow your vision to deteriorate, affecting your general well-being and decreasing your health and fitness.

Our Specialist Eye Unit offers investigation, diagnosis and surgery for eye problems with short waiting times so that you can get back to living an active and fulfilling life.

We offer patients exceptional eye care and a great patient experience in a luxurious environment. The en-suite bedrooms, consultation rooms and daycare unit are clean, airy, modern and well-appointed.

The whole team is dedicated to keeping you healthy, happy and comfortable. The chef offers a selection of delicious meals, drinks and snacks to fuel your recovery. The ward staff are skilled and sensitive. Our staffing levels ensure they have the time to offer each patient individualised care and support, as well as a chat and a friendly smile.

You may be covered by private medical insurance, or you may wish to consider spreading the cost of your surgery by opting for a monthly payment plan.

We aim to make our costs as transparent as possible, but it’s important to talk everything through in detail with your consultant at the time of your appointment. Some costs may be paid directly to the hospital, while others, such as your consultant fees, may be paid directly to the consultant.