Cataract surgery unveiled
Written by:
Ophthalmologist
Published: 19/12/2023
Edited by: Kate Forristal
In his latest online article, Mr Dario Inzerillo gives us his insights into cataract and refractive cataract surgery. Cataracts are a common age-related condition where the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy, causing visual impairment. Cataract surgery offers a straightforward solution, utilising advanced and safe techniques to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one. However, there is a key difference between the standard procedure performed within the NHS and the privately offered refractive cataract surgery.
In standard cataract surgery, patients may still rely on glasses post-surgery. In contrast, refractive cataract surgery, carried out by specialised consultants, tailors the choice of an intraocular lens to the patient's specific needs, often resulting in reduced dependence on glasses for both distance and reading tasks, except in extreme cases. It's worth noting that these specialised lenses are available exclusively in the private sector.
Nearly everyone is a candidate for refractive cataract surgery, with consultants determining suitability through assessments and personalised recommendations.
Cataract surgery, in general, ranks as one of the safest and most successful surgical procedures in modern medicine. Typically, patients receive numbing eye drops, although deeper anaesthesia or sedation can be provided for anxious individuals. During the operation, a sterile drape covers the face in a manner that ensures sufficient oxygen and comfort, even for those prone to claustrophobia. Patients lie comfortably while the procedure takes place, often enjoying music. Some even report seeing beautiful colours, resembling a kaleidoscope, due to light diffraction in the eye. However, most simply experience a bright light. The procedure typically lasts no longer than 15 to 20 minutes, and patients can see immediately after surgery, as the eye is covered with a protective shield. The artificial lens inserted during surgery remains in place for the patient's lifetime and requires minimal postoperative care, primarily in the form of eye drops for a few weeks.
Refractive cataract surgery relies on cutting-edge intraocular lenses, carefully chosen to provide the convenience of clear vision for both near and far distances without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Complication risks are exceedingly rare and are consistent whether using monofocal or premium lenses, as the cataract removal procedure remains the same in both cases.
Mr Dario Inzerillo is a highly experienced cataract surgeon with a vast track record of performing thousands of procedures, both in private practice and within the NHS.You can schedule an appointment with Mr Inzerillo on his Top Doctors profile.