Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed Eye Surgery in Australia. The surgery involves replacing the cloudy lens (cataract) with a clear, permanent artificial lens.

Cataract is the clouding of the lens of the eye, which results in a reduced amount of light entering the eye, thus affecting the vision.

Cataract surgery is the most common elective surgical procedure and is generally a safe procedure. The surgery is performed through a small incision using an ultrasonic machine which breaks the cloudy lens into small pieces which are then suctioned. The cloudy lens is replaced with an artificial transparent plastic intraocular lens (IOL).

Cataract can be treated with Cataract Surgery which is performed as a day procedure in a Hospital.

Cataract surgery is performed by your Ophthalmologist as a day surgery which means that you will not have to stay in the Hospital.

Cataract Surgery Lenses

Different types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) are available and your doctor will discuss with you about the different lenses in detail. Here is a quick guide of the IOLs that are commonly uses

Monofocal IOL

These lenses are the most commonly used IOLs. The lens corrects only the distance vision in patients. Glasses will be required for intermediate and near vision.

Extended Depth IOL

These lenses are used to correct a broad range of distance from long distance to intermediate vision. Glasses will be required for near vision

Multifocal IOL

These lenses have multiple zones which will enable distance, intermediate and near vision, allowing most patients to be spectacle free at most times

Toric IOL

These lenses correct astigmatism.

What are the risks associated with cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is a relatively safe procedure and serious complications are rare. However, like any other procedure, cataract surgery carries some risks / complications as listed below:

• Eye Infection
• Bleeding in the eye
• Swelling in the front or back of the eye (corneal edema or macular edema)
• Retinal detachment
• Damage to other parts of the eye
• Blurred vision, seeing glare, haloes, or dark shadows
• High intraocular pressure
• Dislocation of the artificial lens
• Loss of vision

How much does the cataract surgery cost?

Dr Cugati does not charge out of pocket charges for cataract surgery if you have Private Health Insurance.

Please speak with one of our reception staff regarding the out-of-pocket charges for other doctors at Northern Eye Specialists for cataract surgery.

If you are self-funded, the cost of the cataract surgery will dependent upon the type of IOL used. Please discuss with the staff at the Northern Eye Specialists regarding the costs of the surgery.

Dr Cugati does not charge out of pocket charges for cataract surgery if you have Private Health Insurance.

All surgical procedures carry some risk. This material is for general educational purpose only.