Cataract Surgery
- UK-trained specialist with international fellowship experience
- Prize-winning internationally recognised consultant ophthalmologist
- Elite World College Refractive Surgery Fellow
- Boutique consultant-led service, not corporate volume
- Full spectrum vision correction procedures available
- Referred by fellow surgeons for complex laser surgery cases
Understanding Cataracts
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which lies behind the iris and pupil. This lens works like a camera lens, focusing light rays onto the retina at the back of the eye, where an image is recorded and sent to the brain.
As we age, the proteins in the lens begin to break down and clump together, causing the lens to become cloudy. This cloudiness prevents light from passing clearly through the lens, resulting in blurred or dim vision.
Cataracts are extremely common, affecting more than half of all people over age 80. They develop gradually and can occur in one or both eyes, though they cannot spread from one eye to the other.
Stages of Cataract Development
Early Stage Cataract
The lens begins to cloud slightly, but vision may not be noticeably affected. You might experience minor changes in vision, such as increased sensitivity to light or slight blurriness that can be corrected with stronger glasses.
Moderate Cataract
The cloudiness becomes more pronounced, affecting daily activities. Reading becomes more difficult, colours appear faded or yellowed, and you may experience increased glare from lights, especially when driving at night. Glasses changes become more frequent but less effective.
Advanced Cataract
Significant vision impairment occurs, making it difficult to perform routine tasks. The lens becomes noticeably cloudy, and activities like reading, driving, and recognising faces become challenging. Surgery is typically recommended at this stage to restore functional vision and quality of life.
Mature Cataract
The lens is completely opaque, causing severe vision loss. At this stage, surgical intervention is necessary to prevent complications and restore sight. Delayed treatment may lead to increased surgical complexity and longer recovery times. The cataract may appear as a white or brown clouding visible to others.
Symptoms of Cataracts
Recognising the signs and symptoms of cataracts can help you seek treatment at the right time.
Blurred
Vision
Gradual blurring of vision that cannot be corrected with glasses, making it difficult to read, drive, or see fine details clearly.
Proven
Results
Increased sensitivity to bright lights and glare, particularly noticeable when driving at night or in bright sunlight.
Faded
Colors
Colours appear less vibrant or yellowed, making it difficult to distinguish between similar shades or enjoy visual experiences.
Poor Night
Vision
Difficulty seeing in low light conditions, with increased problems with glare from oncoming headlights while driving.
Frequent Prescription Changes
Need for frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions as vision continues to deteriorate.
Double
Vision
Seeing double images in one eye, which may disappear as the cataract progresses and becomes more opaque.
Benefits of Cataract Surgery
Restored Clear Vision
Dramatic improvement in visual
clarity, allowing you to see clearly at various distances and enjoy
activities you may have given up.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Renewed independence in daily activities such as reading, driving, cooking, and enjoying hobbies with confidence.
Reduced Glare Sensitivity
Elimination of troublesome glare and light sensitivity, making outdoor activities and night driving more comfortable.
Improved Color Perception
Restoration of vibrant colour vision, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.
Potential Spectacle Freedom
With premium multifocal lenses, many patients achieve independence from glasses for most daily activities.
Long-lasting Results
Once removed, cataracts cannot return. The artificial lens is permanent and designed to last a lifetime.
What are the Risks Associated
with Cataract Surgery?
While cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful procedures in medicine, all surgeries carry some risk. Serious complications are rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases.
-
Infection (Endophthalmitis)
Extremely rare but serious infection inside the eye. Risk is minimised through sterile surgical techniques and prophylactic antibiotics. -
Retinal Detachment
Rare complication where the retina separates from the back of the eye. More common in patients with high myopia or previous eye trauma. -
Posterior Capsule Rupture
Tear in the lens capsule during surgery, which can usually be managed during the procedure without affecting final outcomes. -
Secondary Cataract (PCO)
Clouding of the lens capsule months or years after surgery. Easily treated with a simple laser procedure in the office. -
Temporary Vision Changes
Some patients may experience dry eyes, glare, or halos around lights, particularly with multifocal lenses. Most symptoms improve with time.
Am I a Suitable Candidate
for Cataract Surgery?
- Vision problems interfere with daily activities
- Difficulty driving, especially at night
- Problems reading or doing close work
- Glasses no longer improve vision adequately
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Colors appear faded or yellowed
- Good overall eye health
- Realistic expectations about outcomes
Preparing for Cataract Surgery - What to Expect
Lens Selection
Consultation
We’ll discuss your lifestyle needs and visual goals to select the most appropriate intraocular lens, whether standard monofocal, premium multifocal, or toric lenses for astigmatism correction.
Comprehensive
Eye Examination
We’ll conduct detailed measurements of your eye, including corneal topography, biometry, and lens calculations. This determines the power of your new artificial lens and helps us plan your surgery with precision.
Surgery
Day
The procedure typically takes 15-20 minutes using advanced phacoemulsification and femtosecond laser technology. You’ll be comfortable throughout with local anesthetic and sedation if needed.
Pre-operative
Instructions
You’ll receive detailed instructions about medications, eye drops, and what to expect on surgery day. We’ll arrange transportation and discuss any concerns you may have.
Post-operative
Care
Follow-up appointments ensure proper healing. Most patients notice improved vision within days, with full recovery in 4-6 weeks. We provide comprehensive aftercare throughout your recovery.
Meet Mr. Mukherjee
Mr. Mukherjee is one of the UK’s most qualified eye surgeons, offering exceptional care in Colchester. His unique credentials include:
- Triple Fellowship-Trained – One of few surgeons internationally with advanced training in Laser Eye Surgery, Corneal Surgery, and Glaucoma
- UK CERTLRS Qualified – Prestigious certification from the Royal College of Ophthalmologists
- International Expert in Keratoconus treatment with pioneering laser and minimally invasive techniques
- Elite UK Training – Prize-winning surgeon educated at Cambridge, King’s College London, and University Hospital Wales
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does cataract surgery take?
The actual surgical procedure typically takes 15-20 minutes per eye. However, you should plan to be at the surgical centre for approximately 2-3 hours to allow time for preparation and recovery.
Will I be awake during the surgery?
Yes, most patients remain awake during cataract surgery. We use numbing eye drops and mild sedation to ensure you’re comfortable. You won’t feel any pain, and many patients find the experience much easier than expected.
When will I notice improvement in my vision?
Many patients notice improved vision within hours of surgery, with continued improvement over the following days. Full visual recovery typically occurs within 4-6 weeks as your eye completely heals.
Can cataracts come back after surgery?
No, cataracts cannot return once removed. However, some patients may develop a secondary cataract (posterior capsule opacification) months or years later, which can be easily treated with a simple laser procedure.
What is the difference between standard and premium lenses?
Standard monofocal lenses provide clear vision at one distance (usually distance), requiring glasses for reading. Premium multifocal or extended depth of focus lenses can provide clear vision at multiple distances, potentially reducing dependence on glasses.
Can I drive after cataract surgery?
You cannot drive on the day of surgery. Most patients can resume driving within 24-48 hours once vision has improved and they feel comfortable. We’ll assess your vision at your follow-up appointment before clearing you to drive.
What activities should I avoid after surgery?
Avoid heavy lifting (over 10 pounds), bending over, swimming, and rubbing your eye for the first week. Most normal activities can be resumed within a few days, but we’ll provide detailed post-operative instructions.
Is cataract surgery covered by insurance?
Basic cataract surgery with standard lenses is typically covered by insurance. Premium lens upgrades for multifocal or toric lenses usually require an additional out-of-pocket expense, which we’ll discuss during your consultation.
Should I wait until my cataracts are "ripe"?
Modern cataract surgery doesn’t require waiting until cataracts are “ripe” or mature. Surgery is recommended when cataracts interfere with your daily activities and quality of life. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and easier surgery.
How long do the artificial lenses last?
Artificial intraocular lenses are designed to last a lifetime. They are made from biocompatible materials that don’t degrade or need replacement. Once implanted, they become a permanent part of your eye.
Ready to Transform Your Vision?
Ready to transform your vision? Take the first step towards improving your sight with a comprehensive consultation with Mr. Mukherjee. Discover which procedure is right for you and start your journey to visual independence.