Restoring Clarity When Vision Becomes Clouded
Cataracts are one of the most common age-related eye conditions. Over time, the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, making it harder to see clearly, especially in low light or bright glare. For many, this leads to difficulty with reading, driving, or recognising faces.
At London Eye & Retina, we offer a comprehensive approach to cataract treatment, including advanced surgical options and combined procedures for patients with glaucoma or retinal conditions. Every treatment plan is guided by your visual needs, eye health, and long-term well-being.
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract forms when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, usually due to age-related changes. Other risk factors include:
- Diabetes
- Prolonged steroid use
- Previous eye injury or surgery
- Genetic predisposition
Symptoms may include:
- Blurred or misty vision
- Sensitivity to bright lights or glare
- Colours appearing faded
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
When Is Surgery Needed?
Cataract surgery is considered when blurry vision begins to affect daily activities. It is currently the only effective treatment for cataracts and is one of the most commonly performed eye procedures worldwide.
Cataract Surgery
A Safe, Proven Procedure to Restore Clear Vision
Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). At London Eye & Retina, we perform micro-incision cataract surgery under local anaesthesia, typically as a day procedure.
We personalise your care through:
- Preoperative eye measurements and scans
- Careful selection of lens type (monofocal or extended depth-of-focus, if appropriate)
- Individualised post-operative care and follow-up
Combined Cataract + Glaucoma Surgery
Addressing Two Conditions in a Single Procedure
Patients with both cataracts and glaucoma may benefit from combined surgery, which restores vision while also lowering intraocular pressure.
Options include:
- Cataract surgery with Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – Uses micro-stents or trabecular bypass to enhance fluid drainage with minimal tissue disruption.
- Cataract surgery with trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage device – For patients with more advanced or difficult-to-control glaucoma.
Benefits of combined surgery:
- Fewer operations and recovery periods
- Lower reliance on eye drops
- Improved long-term pressure control
Combined Cataract + Retinal Surgery
For Patients with Coexisting Cataracts and Retinal Conditions
In some cases, cataracts may occur alongside retinal diseases such as:
- Epiretinal membrane
- Macular hole
- Diabetic retinopathy or macular edema
- Vitreous haemorrhage
- Retinal detachment (past or active)
We offer combined cataract and vitrectomy surgery, performed in a single session by a trained retinal surgeon. This is especially helpful when the cataract limits access to the retina or when both conditions require treatment.
Conditions That May Benefit from Combined Surgery:
- Macular conditions (ERM, macular hole)
- Vitreous opacities or bleeding in diabetic retinopathy
- Post-retinal detachment eyes with coexisting cataract
- Dislocated lens fragments or IOL issues
Benefits of Combined Surgery:
- Avoids multiple surgeries
- Improved visual access to the retina
- Faster overall recovery
- Coordinated care between cataract and retinal treatment
This procedure involves removing the cataract, placing an intraocular lens, and performing vitrectomy to address the retinal issue, all during the same operation.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Whether you undergo standard cataract surgery or a combined procedure, most patients notice visual improvement within days. You may require temporary eye drops and activity restrictions to support healing.
Close follow-up is important, especially if you have glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, or other underlying conditions.
Considering Cataract Surgery?
If you’ve been told you have cataracts, or are dealing with blurry vision alongside glaucoma or a retinal condition, our team is here to help. We take the time to explain your options and design a surgical plan that suits your specific eye health.
Book a cataract consultation at London Eye & Retina to explore your treatment options with our experienced eye specialists.
Comprehensive Cataract & Retinal Care, All in One Place
