MQ Health Ophthalmology Clinic
- Suite 401, Level 4
- 2 Technology Place
- Macquarie University NSW 2109
- T: + 61 (2) 9812 3933
- E: ophthalmology@mqhealth.org.au
Why choose MQ Health
Integrated health care produces better outcomes for patients
Find out whyExpertise in complex cataract surgery
MQ Health’s specialist team of ophthalmologists have a keen interest in cataracts and related conditions.
With expertise in complex cataract surgery, our doctors operate within state-of-the-art facilities using the latest innovative equipment, methods and procedures.
Symptoms
Cataracts develop when the clear lens in the eye becomes clouded. They often progress slowly and can affect one or both eyes.
Having cataracts feels like you are looking through a cloudy window — they can cause blurry vision, glare, a change in the power of the eye and even changes to your colour vision.
Causes
Often an age-related eye condition, cataracts are most common in older people.
Diagnosis
If you are diagnosed with cataracts, your ophthalmologist will recommend the most suitable treatment plan based on the severity of your cataracts, your medical history, pre-existing conditions and any other considerations.
In some cases, cataracts can make it more difficult to detect other eye disorders. If you have cataracts and symptoms of another eye disease, your ophthalmologist may recommend cataract surgery to assist with the diagnosis and treatment. Also, certain types of glaucoma can be managed better following cataract surgery.
Treatment
Surgery is the only available treatment for cataracts, but not all cataracts require surgery.
During a surgical procedure for cataracts, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. The surgery is performed under a local anaesthetic, and in most cases, you are awake for the procedure.
Before your surgery, your eye will be numbed with anaesthetic drops. Your ophthalmologist will make a series of tiny incisions into the cornea to access and remove the cataract (cloudy lens).
After the cataract is removed, your ophthalmologist will insert an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) in its place. Your artificial lens will be custom made to suit your eye’s unique shape and requirements.
Risk factors
Cataract surgery is a safe, common and effective treatment option. As with any surgical procedure, cataract surgery contains risks, but serious complications are uncommon. Your ophthalmologist can discuss the risks and potential complications with you in detail.
