See your future in clear focus
As we grow older our eye lenses can become frosted, limiting our vision. This is typically diagnosed as cataracts which is when the lens of your eye develops cloudy patches. Cataracts can cause blurry vision and increase the glare from lights when carrying out your day-to-day activities.
Cataracts are usually a result of ageing and appear in patients 65 years of age and older.
If you have suspected cataracts, our team will complete a series of tests to confirm during your appointment and then explain to you the next steps of having cataract removal surgery, should you wish. We offer a dedicated cataract pathway to ensure your jounrey runs smoothly.
Read our FAQs below for more information.
Cataract removal surgery is when the frosted lens of your eye is replaced with an artificial, clear lens.
There are several artificial lenses available which can correct both near, and far, sightedness. Lens technology has progressed over recent years allowing a tailored approach to be adopted. Monofocal lenses are the most common lens type used by surgeons however for those who wish to reduce their reliance on reading glasses, may opt for multifocal lenses. Toric lenses are also available and tend to be used to help patients with astigmatism.
Your consultant will advise you on which lens is the most suitable. Please note there are extra costs associated with premium lens cataract surgery such as multifocal and toric lenses.
Cataract surgery is a day case procedure, which means that you do not have to stay overnight in hospital and return to home later in the day.
Cataract surgery is performed under local anaesthetic and takes an hour or less to perform as a day case procedure. During surgery the cloudy lens is removed, and a clear artificial lens is usually implanted.
You will be supplied with eye drops to dilate the eye before surgery. During the procedure the surgeon will make a tiny incision in the front of the eye and inserts a needle-thin probe into the lens substance where the cataract has formed. The probe will then be used to break down the cataract with ultrasound waves and suction out the fragments.
The lens will then be removed from its capsule in the eye through a small incision and a new lens will be implanted through the same incision and held in place by the original capsule.
An eye patch will be provided to protect your eye following the procedure.
After a couple of days, most of the discomfort should disappear, with the healing process occurring within eight weeks. It is normal to have blurred vision and light sensitivity at first as your eye heals and adjusts.
You will not be able to drive until the lens has settled which on guidance takes around a day. When leaving hospital you will be given eye drops to use and reminded that you are not to touch or rub the eye excessively for a few weeks following your surgery. It is recommended that you avoid applying eye make-up until advised by your surgeon, which is usually a few days after surgery.
It is expected that your vision may begin improving within a few days. Colours may appear brighter after your surgery because you are looking through a new, clear lens.
There are some limitations on your activities for the first few weeks, including avoiding heavy lifting, however after this period you can recommence normal physical activity.
One month after your surgery we recommend that you visit your optician for a follow-up appointment and to reassess your glasses prescription.
After visiting your optician, book an initial consultation with one of our specialist consultants to discuss your cataracts by calling 01633 836 660.
On the day of your appointment at St Joseph’s Hospital your consultant will complete an examination and if you are suitable for cataract surgery, complete all the relevant tests required for the procedure, along with the help of our pre-assessment nursing team. By doing this it will ensure that you do not have to return to the hospital for further tests or examination before your surgery date.
Following your appointment, our Inpatient Booking Team will be in touch to book your surgery date and answer any questions you may have over the phone.
On the day of your procedure, you will attend our Day Surgery Unit which is connected to the main hospital building, where our dedicated nursing team will look after you. Cataract is a day surgery procedure meaning you will return home on the same day to recover. Before you leave the hospital, our nursing team will make sure you have all the required medication and a discharge pack with informational leaflets.
We recommend after your surgery to book an appointment with your optician for a follow-up and to amend your prescription, if necessary. You may still require glasses following your surgery so it is important to attend this appointment. Your consultant will be able to advise on the best time to see your optician, post-surgery.
Pricing
| Initial consultation | From: £150 |
| Treatment | £2,650 |
| Pre-assessment | Included |
| Main treatment | Included |
| Post-discharge care | Included |
| Guide price | £2,800 |
| Initial consultation | From: £150 |
| Treatment | £2,950 |
| Pre-assessment | Included |
| Post-discharge care | Included |
| Guide price | £3,100 |
*The above prices are guide prices only and subject to change at any given time. Diagnostic scans and investigations are not part of the guide price. The guide price indicates the starting price for the treatment.
The cost of treatment will be made clear to you before you proceed with any tests, scans, consultations, or treatment. Please read our terms and conditions. If you have private medical insurance please follow the guidance here.
