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Cataracts Cataracts

Cataracts

Cataracts are cloudy areas within the lens of the eye, which result in blurred vision. The cloudier the lens, the worse the vision. They can develop in either one or both eyes, but are typically more severe in one eye than the other.

As cataracts worsen, the affected person will find it increasingly difficult to focus on objects. Once it gets to a point where their everyday life is affected, surgery is usually required to remove cataracts.

Most cataracts are a result of ageing and long-term exposure to ultraviolet light. Some are caused by injury and certain diseases and in rare cases by exposure to toxic materials and radiation. Occasionally cataracts are present at birth.

Cataract surgery is now a relatively minor procedure. Often it is performed under a local anaesthetic. Depending on the patient, the surgery may be performed on an outpatient basis. This means that the patient attends a hospital or clinic for the surgery and is able to go home the same day. The surgery is performed by an ophthalmologist, a medical doctor who specialises in eye surgery. Our optometrist, Shannon will refer you to an ophthalmologist if necessary.

Most patients have an intra-ocular lens (IOL) inserted at the time of surgery, with excellent results. This is a plastic lens that replaces your own cloudy lens. Patients may also need to wear spectacles or contact lenses.

Outlook Eye Centre has all the specialised equipment required to detect cataracts, manage your vision appropriately and refer you to a specialised cataract surgeon in more advanced cases. Cataracts need not affect your lifestyle.

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