Cataract surgery is one of the most performed surgical procedures in Australia. For most patients, cataract surgery is a straightforward day procedure with a fast recovery time and excellent visual outcomes. If you have recently been told you have a cataract, this page covers everything you need to know, including your treatment options.
A cataract forms when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy over time, making it harder to see clearly. Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with a clear artificial one. With the right information, most patients find the experience far less daunting than they expected.
Cataract surgery is performed at our Vision Hospital Group day surgeries across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia. Whether you have private health insurance or are considering self-funding, there are options to help you access the care you need. Use the links above to help direct you to the information most relevant to you.
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s normally clear, flexible lens that develops gradually over time. The lens of the eye is positioned behind the iris and pupil, focusing light onto the retina. As a cataract forms, the natural lens gradually becomes less transparent, making vision progressively blurry, dim or faded. Most cataracts develop very slowly. However, in some cases, vision changes due to cataracts can develop relatively quickly.
Cataracts are primarily age-related and are very common in Australians aged over 60 years, though they can develop at any age. In the early stages, a cataract may cause no noticeable symptoms at all. As the condition progresses, patients may notice blurred or cloudy vision, difficulty seeing in low light or at night, increased sensitivity to bright lights, and colours that appear washed out or yellow.
Early cataract treatment often involves updating your glasses or contact lens prescription. However, if cataracts begin to interfere with your daily activities, your ophthalmologist may recommend surgery.
Age is the primary risk factor for cataracts. Other risk factors include eye trauma, prolonged steroid use, UV sun exposure, previous eye inflammation or infection and diabetes. In some cases, babies are born with congenital cataracts.
Cataract surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure – meaning you come in for surgery and return home the same day. It is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures worldwide, with a very high success rate.
The surgeon begins by applying eye drops to numb the eye with a local anaesthetic, and you may also be given a mild sedative to help you relax. A tiny incision is then made in the cornea (the clear outer layer of the eye) either manually with a handheld blade in traditional cataract surgeries or with a femtosecond laser for laser cataract surgery. Through this incision, the surgeon accesses the lens capsule and creates a small opening to reach the natural lens. An ultrasound instrument breaks the cloudy lens (cataract) into tiny fragments, which are gently suctioned out. Once the lens capsule is removed, a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is carefully inserted and positioned inside the eye. The IOL cannot be felt once in place, and stitches are rarely needed.
The procedure itself takes less than 30 minutes. However, including admission, preparation and recovery, most patients spend around 3 hours in day surgery before heading home.
You will be awake during the surgery, but you will not see what the surgeon is doing. You may notice some light or vague movement, or you may see nothing at all. Your eyelid will be gently held open so that you cannot blink during the procedure.
Most patients experience mild pressure, but you will not feel pain. You may also hear sounds from the equipment being used – and this is completely normal. Throughout the procedure, a member of the clinical team will always be with you.
Cataract surgery offers several benefits beyond improved vision1-13. Patients typically experience clearer sight and reduced dependence on glasses.
Research also shows that patients with cataracts are significantly more likely to experience falls, which can lead to further health complications – so improving vision through surgery can help reduce this risk.
Many patients also report greater independence and confidence in daily activities, including driving. Improved mental wellbeing is another benefit, as clearer vision helps to reduce anxiety.
There are different surgical techniques your ophthalmologist may use to remove your cataract, depending on your individual circumstances.
Traditional cataract surgery is the most performed cataract surgery procedure worldwide and uses a technique called phacoemulsification. This method applies ultrasound energy to break the cataract into smaller fragments, which are then removed from the eye. It is safe, effective and highly successful, with a very low risk of complications.
Laser cataract surgery, also known as FLACS (femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery), uses a femtosecond laser to assist with parts of the procedure.
Both traditional and laser cataract surgery are safe and effective, with similar visual results for most patients. However, laser cataract surgery may offer a slightly reduced risk of complications in certain circumstances – for example, if the fibres holding the lens in place are weak.
Not all patients are suitable candidates for this technique, and your surgeon will advise you on the best option following a thorough assessment.
Laser cataract surgery is available at select Vision Hospital Group day surgery locations.
When cataract surgery is performed, the cloudy natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens (IOL), designed to restore clear vision. The type of IOL you select can influence whether you still need glasses after surgery. There is no single right answer when it comes to lens selection – the best option for you will depend on your lifestyle, visual goals and overall eye health. Your ophthalmologist will guide you through the available options at your consultation, helping you choose the lens best suited to your needs.
Monofocal lenses correct vision at a single distance and are usually set for distance vision. As a result, most patients will still need reading glasses for near tasks such as reading or using a phone. The standard monofocal lens is covered by Medicare and most private health insurance providers, making it a more cost-effective option. This type of lens is best suited to patients who are comfortable wearing glasses and who prioritise reliable, predictable vision.
Trifocal lenses correct near, intermediate and distance vision. Many patients achieve full independence from glasses with this option, though this outcome cannot be guaranteed for every patient. It’s worth noting that trifocal lenses are associated with a higher incidence of visual side effects, such as glare and halos, and are not suitable for everyone.
EDOF lenses work by stretching a single focal point to provide a wider range of clear vision. This typically results in good distance and intermediate vision – useful for tasks such as driving and computer use – along with occasional ‘functional’ near vision. However, glasses are usually still needed for close-range activities, such as reading fine print. Compared to bifocal or trifocal lenses, EDOF lenses tend to have fewer unwanted visual side effects.
Toric lenses are designed to correct astigmatism, a condition where an irregularly shaped cornea or lens causes blurry or distorted vision. They can be combined with monofocal, trifocal or EDOF technology, allowing patients with astigmatism to benefit from these other lens types.
Ultimately, lens selection is a collaborative process, and your surgeon will help you understand what you can realistically expect to achieve. Your ophthalmologist will explain the advantages and limitations of each lens type to help you make an informed decision. Everyone’s eyes and visual needs are different, so what works well for a friend or family member may not be the best option for you.
Once your ophthalmologist has referred you to Vision Hospital Group for cataract surgery, our theatre booking team will contact you to schedule your procedure.
Before your surgery date, your ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough eye assessment and take precise measurements to determine the correct focusing power for your IOL. Your surgeon’s team will provide a preparation information pack with details specific to your procedure. You will also be asked to complete an online patient registration and admission form at least 7 days before your surgery.
A member of the VHG team will call you the day before your cataract surgery procedure to confirm your admission time, fasting instructions, transport arrangements and any out-of-pocket payment details. You may also be prescribed pre-operative eye drops to use in the days beforehand, which help reduce the risk of infection.
Download your pre-surgical checklist.
Please arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you after the procedure, as you will not be able to drive or take public transport immediately after surgery.
Before your procedure, let your surgeon know if you have ever had an allergic reaction to eye drops and if you are taking any medications for prostate conditions, as some of these can interfere with cataract surgery.
At Vision Hospital Group, we believe every patient deserves a calm, personalised experience. Here’s what your day will look like when you have your cataract surgery with us.
You’ll be warmly welcomed by our admissions and nursing team. A member from admissions will help you through any paperwork and financial consent. Meanwhile, a nurse representative will complete your clinical admission and answer any last-minute questions you have in the lead-up to your procedure.
We will also apply eye drops to the eye receiving surgery to help it dilate.
You’ll be guided to the operating theatre or laser suite. Numbing eye drops (a local anaesthetic) will be applied, and you may also be given a mild sedative to help you relax.
You’ll be awake throughout the procedure, though you won’t see what your surgeon is doing. You may notice some light or vague movement – this is completely normal. Your eyelid will be gently held open, so there’s no need to worry about blinking. The procedure itself takes less than 30 minutes, and you won’t feel any pain. Most patients report feeling mild pressure.
Throughout it all, a member of our team will be by your side, ready to help with anything you need and support you during your procedure.
Once your surgery is complete, a protective cover will be placed over your eye, and you’ll be moved to our recovery area, where you’ll be offered light refreshments. Your vision may be blurry at first, but this is normal and will improve as your eye heals.
You’ll rest in recovery, with our nursing team close by to check that you’re doing well and help with anything you need before you’re cleared to go home. You’ll be given post-operative eye drops, along with clear instructions on how to use them and care for the area around your eye after leaving the day hospital. It’s normal to experience mild discomfort, itching or light sensitivity in the hours after your surgery.
Our team will follow up with you after your procedure, so don’t be surprised if you receive a call or message checking in to see how you’re doing – we genuinely want to know that you’re recovering well and are here if you need anything.
Most patients notice improvement in their vision within just a few days. Your vision may fluctuate a little as your eye heals, but this typically settles within a month of your surgery.
You won’t be able to drive yourself home, so please arrange for a responsible adult to take you. Light activities like cooking and gentle housework can usually be resumed within a day or two. But it’s best to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity during the first week, and swimming for the first month, to reduce the risk of infection. Try not to rub or press on your eye and wear sunglasses outdoors to help manage light sensitivity.
A follow-up appointment with your surgeon is part of your care and usually takes place within 48 hours of surgery. If you need cataract surgery in both eyes, your second procedure typically takes place around two weeks later, allowing time for your first eye to settle and heal.
Cataract surgeries have a high success rate and a low overall risk of complications, with approximately 1 in 1,000 patients experiencing permanently impaired eyesight. As with any surgical procedure, there is a chance of complications related to the procedure itself or the anaesthetic. Your surgeon will discuss the benefits and risks with you before you proceed, so you can feel confident and informed about your decision. It’s also reassuring to know that most complications, when they do occur, are minor and can be treated.
The most common potential complication is posterior capsule opacification (PCO), sometimes referred to as a secondary cataract. PCO occurs when the back of the lens capsule – the structure that holds your intraocular lens in place – thickens over time, causing cloudy vision like that of a cataract. It’s worth noting that this isn’t the cataract returning. Once your natural lens has been removed, a cataract cannot come back.
PCO can develop months or even years after cataract surgery, but it’s easily treated as an outpatient using a quick, painless procedure called a YAG laser capsulotomy. This treatment uses a laser to create a small opening in the clouded lens capsule, allowing light to pass through clearly once again.
Other complications can include dislocation of the replacement lens, inflammation or swelling of the eye, sensitivity to light, a droopy eyelid (ptosis), swelling of the cornea, bleeding at the front of the eye and swelling of the macula (macular oedema). Rarer complications include retinal detachment and infection, which occur in fewer than 1 in 1,000 cases.
Your surgeon will talk you through the benefits and risks of cataract surgery before your procedure, so that you can make a fully informed decision that feels right for you. If you experience significant eye pain, redness, sudden vision changes or discharge after surgery, please contact your surgeon or your nearest emergency department immediately.
Cataract surgery costs can vary based on several factors, including the surgeon’s fees, day surgery facility costs and the type of intraocular lens you choose. Because of these factors, it isn’t possible to provide an exact cost online. However, your ophthalmologist will outline the full cost with you at your consultation, so you have complete clarity before proceeding.
Medicare covers some, but not all, of the costs of cataract surgery. To be eligible for a Medicare rebate, your vision typically needs to have deteriorated to a point where it’s affecting your daily function. Even with Medicare, a gap payment is likely, and the amount will depend on your level of private health cover and the lens selected.
If you have private health insurance, your insurer may cover a significant portion of your cataract surgery costs, depending on your level of cover. It’s worth contacting your insurer before surgery to confirm that cataract surgery is included in your policy, check for any applicable waiting periods, and understand any excess or gap payments that may apply. Depending on the lens you choose, an out-of-pocket cost may still apply even with private health insurance.
You do not need private health insurance to have cataract surgery at a Vision Hospital Group day hospital. Many patients choose to self-fund their treatment, allowing them to access private cataract surgery and receive care when it suits their needs.
By self-funding, you can choose a surgeon you trust and schedule your surgery when it suits you, while avoiding the wait times often associated with the public system.
Vision Hospital Group offers an all-inclusive self-funded cataract surgery package, Surgery Assist, through participating surgeons. The package is designed to simplify the process for patients by combining key treatment costs into a single payment, which may include surgeon fees, hospital fees, intraocular lens costs, post-operative medications and follow-up care.
Patients may also be eligible to access their superannuation early on compassionate grounds to assist with surgical costs. For more information, visit the Australian Taxation Office website
Cataract surgery is performed as a day procedure at Vision Hospital Group. You are admitted, have your surgery, recover on site and return home the same day. No overnight stay is required. The procedure itself takes less than 30 minutes. But you can expect to be at the day surgery for approximately 3 hours, allowing for admission, preparation and recovery.
Most patients feel no pain, only mild pressure. A local anaesthetic is applied to the eye before surgery, and a mild sedative may also be given to help you relax. Any discomfort after surgery is usually mild and settles within a few hours.
Most patients are awake during cataract surgery, though this isn’t required. Some patients fall asleep after receiving their sedative medication. Whether awake or asleep, you will not be able to see what your surgeon is doing. However, you may notice some light or vague movement, or nothing at all.
It’s normal for your vision to feel blurry immediately after surgery. Most patients notice a significant improvement within a few days. However, your vision may fluctuate for about a month after surgery while your eye heals and vision stabilises
This depends on the IOL chosen. With a standard monofocal lens, reading glasses are usually still needed for near tasks. Trifocal and EDOF lenses offer a wider range of vision and, although not guaranteed, many patients achieve independence from glasses. Your ophthalmologist will discuss the best lens option for your lifestyle and visual needs.
Private health insurance is not required. With our self-funded program, SurgeryAssist, your surgeon’s fees, hospital costs, IOL, post-operative medications and follow-up appointments are covered in one all-inclusive payment. Medicare also provides a rebate towards some of the costs. Speak to our team or visit the SurgeryAssist page to find out more.
Most patients notice improved vision within a few days. However, your vision may fluctuate for up to a month after surgery as the eye heals and stabilises. You can resume light activities within a day or two. Swimming and strenuous exercise should be avoided for the first month.
Most people with cataracts in both eyes will have one eye operated on initially, with the second eye following a few weeks later. In certain circumstances, both eyes may be operated on during the same procedure. This might apply when a patient requires a general anaesthetic, as is often the case for small children with cataracts. It may also apply to patients who live far away from the operating theatre and cannot easily return for a second procedure.
Once the natural lens has been removed, a cataract cannot return. However, some patients develop posterior capsule opacification (PCO) – sometimes referred to as a secondary cataract – months or years after surgery. PCO is not a new cataract, and it’s quickly and painlessly treated with a YAG laser capsulotomy as an outpatient procedure.
Cataract surgeries are performed at all 11 Vision Hospital Group day surgeries across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia. See the locations section below for full details.
At the time of cataract surgery, your ophthalmologist may also be able to address other eye conditions. For example, astigmatism can be corrected using a toric intraocular lens, while presbyopia can be addressed with a multifocal or EDOF lens. Patients with high eye pressure or glaucoma may also benefit from additional procedures performed during cataract surgery. Your doctor will assess your individual eye health and discuss these options with you prior to your procedure.
You’ll need a referral from your GP or optometrist to see an ophthalmologist before cataract surgery can be booked. Following this, your treating ophthalmologist or surgeon will book your procedure at a Vision Hospital Group surgical facility.
Our boutique day surgeries are thoughtfully designed with you in mind. We’ve thought of every detail so you feel comfortable, safe and at ease throughout your cataract surgery journey with us.
Vision Hospital Group day hospitals are purpose-built and accredited under the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards, so you can trust that robust safety and quality systems underpin every procedure. With advanced technology, including laser cataract surgery at select locations, you have access to leading-edge surgical options. We also offer a wide range of intraocular lens choices, including premium lenses, so your surgery can be tailored to your individual lifestyle and visual needs.
Throughout your procedure, you’re cared for by experienced nursing and theatre teams who are dedicated specifically to ophthalmic surgery and your comfort.
And for added convenience, some of our day surgeries are co-located with your surgeon’s consulting rooms, making pre- and post-operative appointments simpler to manage.
It’s this commitment to patient care that has earned Vision Hospital Group a world-class Net Promoter Score, the global benchmark for patient satisfaction and one we’re proud to uphold.
Level 1, Suite 1, 480 North East Road
Windsor Gardens SA 5087
T:
08 7078 5978
F: 08 7109 0099
For more information, explore the following resources:
Learn more about cataract and lens surgery through Vision Eye Institute.
Explore these links to learn more:
The information on this page is general in nature. All medical and surgical procedures have potential benefits and risks. Consult your ophthalmologist for specific medical advice.
