Cataract surgery, clearly explained
Cataract surgery at Visura Eye Care replaces the eye’s cloudy natural lens with a clear artificial lens, performed as day surgery by an ophthalmic surgeon.
What is a cataract and how is it treated?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. It usually develops slowly with age and makes vision blurry, dull or glary, especially when driving at night. Glasses can help for a while, but the only treatment that removes a cataract is surgery.
In cataract surgery, the surgeon makes a very small opening in the eye, breaks up the cloudy lens with ultrasound, removes it and places a clear artificial lens, called an intraocular lens, in its place. Surgery is done under local anaesthetic with light sedation, and most patients go home the same day. As with any surgery, there are risks, which the surgeon discusses with you before you decide.
Who is it for?
- People whose cataracts make reading, driving or work difficult
- Adults who notice glare, halos or faded colours
- People whose glasses prescription keeps changing because of a cataract
- Patients referred by an optometrist or GP for a cataract assessment
What to expect
- 01
Assessment
The surgeon examines your eyes, confirms the cataract and discusses whether surgery is right for you now.
- 02
Measurements and lens choice
Precise scans of the eye are used to calculate the artificial lens power, and lens options are explained with their costs.
- 03
Day surgery
The procedure itself usually takes 20 to 30 minutes per eye. You rest briefly and go home with a shield over the eye.
- 04
Follow-up visits
We check the eye the next day and again over the following weeks, and update your glasses once the eye has settled.
What is recovery like after cataract surgery?
Most people notice clearer vision within a few days. You will use eye drops for several weeks, wear a shield at night for the first week, and avoid rubbing the eye, swimming and heavy lifting for a short period. Call us straight away if pain or vision gets worse after surgery.
Common questions
Yes. To claim Medicare rebates for an ophthalmologist consultation, you need a referral from your optometrist or GP. Visura Eye Care optometrists can refer you to our surgeon in South Yarra.
Related services
- 01 Comprehensive eye exams A full check of your vision and eye health, bulk billed under Medicare for eligible patients. $0 with Medicare
- 02 Contact lenses Fitting for daily, monthly, toric and multifocal lenses, with follow-up checks. $120
- 03 Retinal care Imaging and monitoring for macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease and other retinal conditions. $70
Book cataract surgery
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- Opening hours
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- Monday to Friday08:30-18:00
- Saturday09:00-13:00
Book an appointment
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