Cataract Surgery
Why does cataract surgery involve?
Cataracts are discolourations and/or opacities that occur within the lens, a structure inside the eye that is important for clear, focused vision.
Cataract development can lead to blurriness, haziness, glare, haloes around lights, and reduced night vision. As the cataract progresses, it can significantly impair the ability to see clearly and perform daily tasks.
Cataracts can develop for various reasons. Aging is the most common cause, but other risk factors include diabetes, long-term use of corticosteroids, eye injuries or diseases, and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.
Cataract surgery involves removal of the cataractous lens, or sometimes the removal of the natural clear lens to correct refractive errors (refractive lens exchange), while leaving the covering (capsule) behind. An artificial intra-ocular lens (IOL) is then implanted within the capsular bag.
What can I expect during the procedure?
Cataract surgery is a day procedure, usually performed under topical anaesthesia with light sedation. The operation typically takes less than 20 minutes and is pain free.
The wound is small, self sealing and does not usually require stitches. After the surgery, an intra-ocular antibiotic is used to prevent infection. A clear shield is provided to prevent accidental pressure on the eye during the first 24 hours of healing.
Types of intra-ocular lenses
Dr Chan offers various intra-ocular lenses. The choice of lens depends on the patient’s visual system and visual needs. Options include monofocal lenses that optimise distance correction, monofocal plus lenses (providing small amount of range of vision), extended depth of focus lenses to provide a greater range of clear vision, small aperture lens (for complicated refractive error), multifocal lenses (full range of vision) and the latest spiral optic lens, designed to enhance image clarity across the full range of vision.
Dr Chan can also insert the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) implant which is seated behind the pupil but in front of the natural lens. This can be viewed as a long term contact lens within the eye.
Risks and Benefits of Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is a very safe procedure, with major complications occurring in less than 0.5% of cases. The procedure is also highly successful in the correction of refractive error. More than 90% of eyes are successfully corrected within +/- 0.5 Diopters of the target power.
Surgical Locations
Dr Christopher Chan operates at the Victoria Parade Surgical Centre (free parking available) and Epworth Freemason’s Hospital.