See the world more clearly with cataract surgery in Canberra

This safe and common eye procedure replaces your cloudy lens with a clear one, which may make everyday vision brighter and sharper1 https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts/cataract-surgery

See the world more clearly with cataract surgery in Canberra

This safe and common eye procedure replaces your cloudy lens with a clear one, which may make everyday vision brighter and sharper2 https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts/cataract-surgery

Cataract surgery is a proven way to treat cloudy vision from cataracts

Find out how this quick procedure works, who may be suitable, and how it could help you enjoy clearer vision in daily life

Cataract surgery suitability criteria

Cataract surgery may suit people who have cloudy or blurred vision caused by cataracts.

Cataracts happen when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, often due to ageing.

You may be suitable if cataracts are making it hard to read, drive, or see details in daily life.

Suitability depends on your eye health, general health, and whether the cataract is affecting your vision enough to make surgery helpful.

People with certain eye conditions may still be suitable, but this will be checked during an eye examination. Your eye doctor will decide if cataract surgery is the right option for your needs.

Cataract surgery removes the eye’s cloudy natural lens and replaces it with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).

The surgery is usually done under local anaesthetic, meaning you are awake but your eye is numbed so you do not feel pain.

A small cut is made in the eye, and the cloudy lens is broken into small pieces using ultrasound. The pieces are removed, and the new clear lens is placed inside the eye. This lens stays in place permanently.

The goal is to help light focus clearly on the retina, which may improve your vision.

Advantages: Cataract surgery can improve vision by replacing the cloudy lens. It may reduce glare, improve colour clarity, and make daily tasks easier. Many people can return to activities they enjoy3https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts/cataract-surgery/.

Disadvantages: As with all surgery, there are risks. Some people may still need glasses for certain tasks after surgery. You cannot reverse the procedure once done. Lens choice must be made before surgery and may affect whether you need glasses afterwards. Recovery time can vary between people.

Your eye doctor will explain both the possible benefits and the limitations based on your individual needs.

Cataract surgery is common, but all surgery carries some risk. Possible complications include infection, swelling, bleeding, increased eye pressure, or retinal detachment4https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-cataract-surgery/.

Some people may develop cloudiness on the lens capsule behind the implant months or years later, which can usually be treated with a quick laser procedure.

Very rarely, vision may be affected long-term. The risk of serious problems is low, but it can happen.

Following aftercare instructions can help lower the risk of problems after cataract surgery.

If you have cataracts, surgery is the only way to remove them. During surgery, you can choose the type of artificial lens (IOL) that replaces your cloudy lens.

Options include monofocal lenses (clear vision at one set distance), multifocal lenses (clearer vision at more than one distance), and toric lenses (to correct astigmatism).

Your eye doctor will explain which lens may suit your eyes, vision needs, and lifestyle. If cataracts are mild, stronger glasses may help for a short time.

  1. Assessment – Your eyes are examined and measurements taken for the new lens.
  2. Preparation – On the day, anaesthetic drops are used to numb your eye.
  3. Small cut – A tiny incision is made in the cornea.
  4. Lens removal – The cloudy lens is broken into pieces and removed.
  5. New lens – A clear artificial lens is placed in the same spot.
  6. Aftercare – You receive eye drops and follow-up appointments to check healing.

Most people go home the same day. Vision often improves within days to weeks5 https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-cataract-surgery.

Most people notice clearer vision after cataract surgery once the eye heals, but results vary.

Colours may appear brighter, and glare may be reduced. Many people can return to reading, driving, or other activities that were difficult before.

Some may still need glasses for certain tasks, such as reading small print or driving at night.

Cataract surgery does not prevent other age-related eye changes, such as macular degeneration. Your outcome will depend on your eye health, the lens chosen, and your healing process.

Your eye doctor will explain what you can expect based on your individual situation.

See what’s possible with cataract surgery in Canberra

See what’s possible with cataract surgery in Canberra

Book a free assessment and learn which treatment and lens options may help improve your vision and daily life

Your pathway to clearer vision after cataracts

We make it easy to understand your cataract treatment and lens options from start to finish

Step 1: Get in touch

Get started by calling our friendly team on (02) 5104 0858 or booking online to get a clear answer on whether you are suitable for surgery.

Step 2: We’ll meet

At your detailed assessment, you’ll meet with the surgeon who will explain the procedure, lens choices, and answer all your questions. You’ll leave knowing exactly what’s recommended for your unique eyes.

Step 3: Enjoy life with clearer vision

After treatment, many people notice daily tasks become easier; reading, driving, and seeing faces more clearly. If you choose a lens that can reduce your need for reading glasses, you may enjoy even more freedom.

Affiliations and memberships

We are proud to be a part of these professional bodies

Hi, I’m Dr. Richard Barry

I am an ophthalmologist and the principal surgeon at Blink Vision Clinic in Canberra. As a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists, I have advanced training in vision correction.

I trained at Sydney Eye Hospital and completed international fellowship training in macula and retina disease. My focus is on providing evidence-based treatments using the latest technology to achieve the best possible outcomes for my patients.

I believe in clear communication and patient education, ensuring you fully understand your options and treatment plan. At Blink Vision Clinic, my goal is to provide a thorough and professional approach to eye care, so you feel confident in your vision correction journey.

Dr. Richard Barry