Cataract Surgery in Canberra

A cataract is the name given to the condition where the natural
lens of the eye is not crystal clear.

What is cataract surgery

A cataract is the name given to the condition where the natural lens of the eye is not crystal clear. Cataract surgery is the procedure of removal of the cloudy natural lens of an eye and replacing it with a plastic artificial lens implant. It is performed by an eye surgeon (ophthalmologist).

Surgery is necessary because cataract can cause blurred vision and other vision problems.

Cataract surgery is also known as lens replacement surgery. The procedure is painless, and in most cases restore good quality of vision.

Cataract Surgery in Canberra

Diagnosis

Cataracts are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination conducted by an ophthalmologist. The exam may include the following tests:

  • Visual Acuity Test: This is a standard eye chart test that measures how well you can see at various distances. It helps determine if your vision is blurred or reduced due to cataracts.

  • Slit-Lamp Examination: This test uses a special microscope that illuminates the eye with a strong light, allowing the ophthalmologist to examine the front structures of the eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens, to detect any clouding or abnormalities.

  • Dilated Eye Exam: The doctor may dilate your pupils using eye drops to help assess the extent of the cataract, and check for other eye conditions, such as retinal issues.

  • Tonometry: Your doctor will usually measure the pressure inside your eye to assess for glaucoma, which can coexist with cataracts.

  • Glare and Contrast Sensitivity Tests: These tests measure how your vision is affected by bright lights or glare and how well you can see objects in low contrast situations, which are common issues for people with cataracts.

Early diagnosis of cataracts is important to monitor the progression and determine the right time for surgery if needed.

When to see an eye doctor ?

Make an appointment for an eye exam if you notice any changes in your vision. If you develop sudden vision changes, such as double vision or flashes of light, sudden eye pain, or sudden headache, see your doctor as soon as possible.

Why is Cataract Surgery needed?

Here are some reasons why people need to undergo cataract surgery:

» You have reduced quality of vision or blurred vision affecting daily activities or driving.

» You have difficulty seeing well at night.

» You cannot see clearly even with glasses.

» Colors appearing faded.

» Sensitivity to glare and bright lights.

Types of Cataract Surgery

There are two main types of modern surgery procedures:

IMG_0167

1. Phacoemulsification

The most common kind is called phacoemulsification, which involves carefully directing ultrasonic waves to break up the cloudy lens (cataract) into smaller pieces.

The ultrasound is delivered to the eye through a special hand-piece which fits into a self-sealing wound less than 2.5 millimetres wide. The ophthalmologist carefully removes the lens pieces with gentle vacuum.

Following lens removal, the ophthalmologist will insert a specially designed implant, known as an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The IOL lens will be placed into the support structure where the natural lens used to be suspended at the front of the eye.

2. Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS)

In FLACS, a laser machine is used to perform some of the steps of cataract surgery including initial incisions, opening the lens capsule and dividing the lens.

Laser-assisted cataract surgery has not been shown to result in lower complication rates or better visual quality than in traditional phacoemulsification cataract surgery. The effectiveness of the FLACS technique is still being studied and researched, and its full potential has yet to be explored. However, there have been studies that have shown fairly equivalent outcomes.

FLACS may beneficial for advanced, mature cataracts, resulting in lower phacoemulsification energy.

Intraocular lens options

There are a variety of IOL lens options for focusing clearly after the cataract is removed. There are advantages and disadvantages of each type of lens.

Monofocal Lens

The most common type of lens inserted following cataract removal is a monofocal lens. This has a single focus. Monofocal lenses are usually selected for good distance focus, and the patient will then need to wear glasses for reading and near focus.

Toric Lens

Toric lenses provide correction for astigmatism, making vision clearer for those patients who have pre-existing astigmatism.

Extended depth-of-focus lens

Extended depth-of-focus (EDoF) lenses are specially designed to provide good distance and intermediate focus. This is helpful for using the computer, watching TV and seeing the car dashboard, for example.

Multifocal Lenses

These lenses split light to allow focusing at distance, intermediate and near focus. There is a compromise in the quality of vision and contrast that the lens provides. The optics of the lens design, which allows it to provide multiple focuses.

How to prepare for cataract surgery

» Explain the process of surgery, and the lens options.

» Take detailed measurements of your eyes to calculate the lens power.

» Order the appropriate lens for your eye(s).

Patients usually have to fast for a few hours before surgery, as light sedation is usually given. They may also need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners.

It is a very safe and straightforward procedure in most cases, and patients usually go home shortly after. It is important to have someone bring you to the surgery centre or hospital, and take you home.

Here are a few things to know about surgery:

Anaesthesia:

For surgery on your eyes, the anaesthetist will numb the eye with drops, or an injection around the eye. You will also be given medication to help you relax. You’ll stay awake during the procedure, but the eye will be asleep. You may be able to see movement and some light. You will also hear the eye surgeon and the phacoemulsification machine. The procedure will not hurt, but you may feel some pressure while the surgeon is operating.

Positioning:

You will be lying down flat, or at a slight angle, for the cataract surgery.

Removal:

The ophthalmologist uses an operating microscope to perform the surgery. Tiny incisions are made to reach the lens, which is then broken up by ultrasound waves and surgically removed. Finally, the new artificial lens is placed and antibiotic injected to reduce the risk of post-operative infection.

The process of cataract surgery usually takes 10-15 minutes. In some cases, it can take longer. The admission process, anaesthesia and discharge means that you can be in the surgery centre or hospital for 2 or more hours.  

The first night:

A pad and shield may be placed over the eye for the first night following surgery.

Eye drops

For about four weeks after the surgery, you will need to use prescription eye drops twice a day. These are anti-inflammatory drops to help the eye heal.

Most people need a few days for vision to improve after surgery. It is common for the eye to be red, gritty and irritated, and watery.

Author Bio

Dr Parth Shah is a leading ophthalmologist in Canberra, specialising in cataract surgery. With extensive training and experience, he is renowned for his expertise in the field. Dr Shah is dedicated not only to performing successful surgeries but also to patient education. His compassionate approach, combined with technical proficiency, has earned him the trust and gratitude of countless patients. He is a true advocate for eye health and a trusted name in the Canberra ophthalmology community.

Questions related to cataract Surgery Cost in Canberra

The total cost of surgery depends on a range of factors including where the surgery is performed, who performs the surgery, and what intraocular lens implant is used.

FAQs

Yes, Medicare Australia contributes toward fees associated with cataract surgery. It is a surgical procedure to remove the cloudy crystalline lens of the eye. Medicare cover the cost of cataract surgery done in public hospitals, and will contribute to the cost of surgery and anesthesia fees if the procedure is performed in a private hospital. You may also be eligible for a Medicare rebate for consultation fees related to surgery. However, you may need to pay gap fees for any services that are not covered by Medicare. Speak to your ophthalmologist to find out more about the cost of cataract surgery and any other associated costs.

If you have cataract surgery included under your private health insurance policy, this will allow you to have surgery at a private hospital or surgery centre. There may be an excess on the policy as well as gap payments payable to the surgeon and anesthetist.

The total cost of surgery depends on a range of factors including where the surgery is performed, who performs the surgery, and what intraocular lens implant is used.

Cataract surgery is covered under Medicare for eligible pensioners when the surgery is performed in a public hospital setting. Pensioners may also be eligible for a Medicare rebate for associated consultation fees related to surgery. Speak to your ophthalmologist to find out more about the cost of surgery and any associated fees.

The wait time for cataract surgery in Australia varies depending on the patient’s location and urgency of the procedure. Generally, patients can expect to wait around 6 months or longer for in public hospitals. However, if the cataract is causing significant vision loss or other complications, urgent appointments may be available. Speak to your ophthalmologist to find out more about waiting times.

 

Private health insurers offer a range of policies covering the cost of cataract surgery, including some that provide cover from the first day of taking out the policy. Speak to your insurer to find out more about the available cover and any associated fees or waiting periods.

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