Cataracts Treatment in Mosman, Sydney

Cataracts are a very common eye condition in Aystralia, where the lens of your eye becomes cloudy, leading to impaired vision that can significantly affect your quality of life.

At our Mosman optical practice, we specialize in the early detection and management of cataracts. If surgery becomes necessary, we coordinate closely with skilled ophthalmologists to ensure you receive the best possible care and postoperative refractive outcomes.

Book an eye test with us today!

What is a Cataract?

A cataract develops when the crystalline lens of the eye, which is normally clear, becomes hazy and cloudy. This cloudiness is due to a fluid build up in the lens that can hinder the lens’s ability to form a clear image on the retina, resulting in blurred or fuzzy vision. Cataracts typically develop slowly and can affect one or both eyes.

Symptoms of Cataracts

The most common symptoms of cataracts include:

  • Cloudy, blurry, or dim vision, making it difficult to perceive fine details.
  • Increasing difficulty with vision at night, particularly when driving.
  • Sensitivity to light and glare, often with halos and starbursts appearing around lights.
  • Fading or yellowing of colors, reducing the vibrancy of your visual experience.
  • Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions as vision fluctuates.

Causes of Cataracts

While the most common cause of cataracts is aging, several other factors can contribute to their development:

  • Long-term exposure to UV radiation (environmental & occupational).
  • Diabetes or other medical conditions.
  • Previous eye injuries or surgeries.
  • Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications.
  • Lifestyle factors such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.

Who is Most Susceptible to Cataracts?

Cataracts primarily affect older adults, but they can also occur in younger people. Individuals over the age of 60 are at a higher risk, although people with risk factors such as diabetes or those with a history of eye injuries may develop cataracts earlier.

How Cataracts are Tested for in Our Practice

Our comprehensive approach to diagnosing cataracts includes:

  • Visual Acuity Test: This test measures how well you can see at various distances.
  • Slit Lamp Examination: Allows us to observe the structures at the front of your eye under magnification to identify any abnormalities.
  • Retinal Exam: After dilating your pupils, we examine the back of your eye to assess the health of your retina and to check for cataracts affecting your vision.

How We Manage Cataracts

If you have cataracts, we help manage your condition with:

  • Updated Vision Prescriptions: Adjusting your eyeglass or contact lens prescription to compensate for changes in your vision.
  • Anti-Glare Lenses: Recommending sunglasses or anti-glare lens coatings to reduce sensitivity to light.
  • Monitoring and Advising: Regular monitoring of cataract progression and providing advice on when to consider surgery.

When to Consider Cataract Surgery

When cataracts significantly interfere with your daily activities, cataract surgery may be necessary. As optometrists, we don’t perform surgery but work closely with reputable ophthalmologists to whom we refer our patients for surgical intervention.

Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an silicone intraocular lens, restoring clear vision for most individuals.

Why Choose Us for Your Cataract Care

At Eyes on Mosman, we pride ourselves on our thorough approach to cataract detection and management. We guide you through each step, from initial diagnosis to post-surgery care, ensuring you feel supported and informed. Our referrals are carefully selected to connect you with the best ophthalmologists in the field. On the day of surgery we offer a unique service of swapping the lens in your existing spectacles with a plano (non-prescription) lens. This will allow you to function well postoperatively until your refraction has stabilized. This also has a pleasing aesthetic effect on your spectacles during your healing process.

Schedule an Appointment with Us

Don’t let cataracts cloud your world. Book your comprehensive eye test with us today to keep your eyes healthy and your vision crystal clear.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are cataracts and how do they affect vision?

Cataracts are clouding of the eye’s lens which leads to a decrease in vision quality and contrast. They can make your vision blurry, increase glare, and mute colors.

Can cataracts be prevented?

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent cataracts, wearing UV protective eyewear and managing health conditions can help slow their development taking ocular supplements can also slow the progression of the lens changes.

How do you know if you’re ready for cataract surgery?

Surgery is considered when cataracts prevent you from doing everyday activities. We help evaluate your condition and recommend surgery when necessary.

What is the recovery time for cataract surgery?

Recovery typically takes a few weeks, during which you may need to use eye drops and avoid strenuous activities as advised by your ophthalmologist. Cataract surgery takes approximately 20 minutes and the post operative recovery is a couple of days.

Are there risks associated with cataract surgery?

As with any surgery, there are risks involved, but cataract surgery is generally safe and effective with a high success rate.