Cataract Surgery

Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is successful in 98% of patients, with the vast majority of patients experiencing a significant improvement in their vision following surgery.

Miles specialises in cataract surgery and has a keen interest in training the next generation of cataract surgeons in his NHS practice.

The following services are offered:

  • Cataract surgery

  • YAG laser capsulotomy

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in your eye, which can cause blurry vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night. It is a common condition, especially in older adults, and can significantly impact your quality of life.

What is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is a procedure to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL). This surgery is one of the most common and safest procedures performed worldwide.

Who Needs Cataract Surgery?

You may need cataract surgery if cataracts are affecting your vision and daily activities, such as reading, driving, or watching TV. Your ophthalmologist will discuss your symptoms and conduct a thorough eye examination to determine if surgery is right for you.

Preparing for Cataract Surgery

  1. Pre-Operative Assessment: You will undergo a comprehensive eye exam to measure the size and shape of your eye and select the appropriate IOL.

  2. Medications: Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking. You may need to stop certain medications temporarily.

  3. Instructions: Follow any pre-surgery instructions given by your doctor, such as fasting if necessary.

The Surgery Procedure

  1. Anesthesia: Cataract surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation, so you will be awake but relaxed and pain-free.

  2. Incision: A small incision is made in the cornea.

  3. Lens Removal: The cloudy lens is broken up using ultrasound (phacoemulsification) and removed from the eye.

  4. IOL Insertion: The artificial lens is inserted into the lens capsule.

  5. Incision Closure: The incision is usually self-sealing and does not require stitches.

Recovery After Cataract Surgery

  1. Rest: Take it easy for the first few days. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting.

  2. Eye Drops: Use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.

  3. Follow-Up Visits: Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your healing process.

  4. Protect Your Eye: Wear an eye shield at night to protect your eye and sunglasses during the day to reduce light sensitivity.

  5. Healing Time: Most people recover within a few weeks, with vision improving gradually.

Potential Risks and Complications

While cataract surgery is generally safe, with a good outcome in 98% of patients, potential risks include:

  • Infection

  • Inflammation

  • Bleeding

  • Swelling

  • Retinal detachment

  • Residual refractive error

  • Posterior capsule opacification (clouding behind the new lens) - this is easily treated with a painless laser procedure called a YAG capsulotomy

Benefits of Cataract Surgery

  • Improved vision clarity

  • Enhanced color perception

  • Better night vision

  • Increased independence in daily activities

  • Improved overall quality of life

Frequently asked questions

  • Some people may still need glasses for reading or distance vision, depending on the type of IOL implanted and their specific vision needs.

  • The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes, but you should plan to be at the surgical center for a few hours to allow for pre- and post-operative care.

  • Most patients experience little to no pain during and after the procedure due to local anesthesia and sedatives.

  • Many normal activities can be resumed within a few days, but it's important to follow your doctor's advice regarding specific restrictions.

Miles is a consultant ophthalmologist and oculoplastic surgeon with a private practice at The London Clinic on Harley Street. He specialises in ophthalmic cosmetic, reconstructive, and lacrimal (tear drainage) surgery.

In addition to his private practice, Miles holds a substantive NHS consultant post at the Royal Free London and he established and runs the oculoplastic service at North Middlesex University Hospital. He also has expertise in cataract and pterygium surgery.

As an honorary clinical lecturer at UCL and assistant professor at St. George's University, Miles is actively involved in training the next generation of ophthalmologists.