Why do I need cataract surgery?

Currently, the only way to remove the cataract is cataract surgery. During this procedure the cataract is removed using an ultrasonic probe. The success of this operation is extremely high. It is one of the most common surgical procedures performed.

Dr Troski uses a new piece of equipment called the "Ozil" or torsional phacoemulsification.  This probe uses less energy to remove the cataract than traditional techniques and so causes less trauma to the eye.

When should I have cataract surgery?

Many years ago patients were counselled to avoid cataract surgery until their vision was very poor and the cataract advanced. In those days the procedure to remove the cataract was safer when the cataract was well developed.

Today, modern ultrasonic cataract surgery relies on liquefaction of the cataract and therefore the risks of surgery maybe greater the more developed the cataract. For this reason surgeons generally recommend cataract surgery earlier than was once the case.

The best time to have cataract surgery is when the patient will benefit from the procedure. In some cases the patient will be very aware of difficulty with vision and in most cases cataract surgery should be performed. The eye surgeon will examine the health of the eyes as there may be other conditions contributing to poor vision such as glaucoma or macular degeneration and these conditions need to be fully analysed prior to making a decision about cataract surgery.