If you’ve noticed your vision has become a bit cloudy recently or you are struggling with glare while driving at night, then it could be a sign that you have cataracts.
This is a common affliction in Australia, with anywhere between 700,000 and one million people suffering from it, depending on which report you believe. Many of them are over 55, and especially closer to 80.
Traditionally, people had very wary attitudes toward cataracts. Back in the 1960s, for instance, surgery for this condition was seen as being incredibly risky, enervating, and something that was a last resort for people who were virtually blind. Even in the 90s, there was a fear of going blind after surgery, which many people masked through a cultural acceptance that losing their sight was a part of getting old.
Today, thankfully, this feeling no longer pervades. Infact, more Aussies than ever are choosing to treat cataracts as soon as they are diagnosed with them. Let’s take a deeper look at why.
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is a condition in which the natural lens inside your eye becomes cloudy over time. This cloudiness makes it harder for light to pass through clearly, which affects how you see the world around you.
Cataracts often develop slowly, and in the early stages, you might not notice any difference in your sight. However, as they progress, some common symptoms begin to appear. For instance, you may experience:
- Blurred vision
- Colours looking dull
- Increased sensitivity to light
You might also find night driving uncomfortable (due to glare from headlights), and reading small text might be more difficult.
Why Are Australians Choosing To Have Early Cataract Treatment?
In recent times, there has been a lot of education about the importance of having an eye test at least once every two years. Not everyone does this – according to a recent report in the Sydney Morning Herald, 30% of Aussies do not get regular eye checks. However, when it comes to cataracts, behaviour is a lot different.
Partly this is because many Australians lead busy lives filled with work, family commitments, and social activities, which require them to have their site. But it is also because technological advancements have made cataract surgery in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and across Australia much safer, more efficient, and more accessible.
In fact, the operation is usually performed as a day procedure, taking less than 30 minutes to perform under sedation via a local anesthesia. Most people only spend 3-4 hours at the clinic or hospital.
Additionally, it is free at a public hospital in Australia if you are covered by Medicare. That said, the waiting list is quite long, so many people choose to go private.
Is It Better to Treat Cataracts Early or Wait?
For many years, people were advised to wait until cataracts became severe before considering surgery. However, this is no longer the case.
The question of when to have cataract surgery now really depends on how much your vision is affecting your life. For instance, if cataracts are making everyday tasks harder or less safe, then it’s definitely worth having a conversation with an eye specialist.
If you delay treatment, you can experience ongoing frustration. It may impact your ability to drive safely. Perform tasks at work. Or even watch TV or go to the movies. This can reduce your overall quality of life and even affect your mental health.
Another thing to consider is that sometimes the earlier you treat your cataracts, the better the outcome. However, an ophthalmologist will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
What Should You Expect From Cataract Surgery?
As touched upon earlier, cataract surgery is a straightforward procedure that is usually completed in under half an hour. Essentially, it involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial one.
The process is typically performed as a day procedure, so you can go home the same day. Its success rate is pretty good because most people notice an improvement in their vision within a few days.
The recovery time from cataract surgery is generally pretty short, too. In fact, many people return to light activities within a couple of days and have fully recovered in a matter of weeks. Your specialist will guide you on how to care for your eyes during this period. However, you may be advised to avoid heavy lifting or partaking in strenuous activities for a short time.
How Much Does Cataract Surgery Cost in Australia?
If you don’t want to wait for a free surgery in a public hospital, you’ll need to pay for the procedure to take place in a private clinic. The cost of cataract surgery in Australia can vary depending on your level of private health insurance and the type of lens given to you.
That said, you can expect to pay between $1,600 and $6,000 per eye. So, it is worth getting a detailed quote before committing to the surgery. Many clinics offer free consultations, where you can ask questions and receive a personalised estimate outlining what’s included.
How Does Cataract Treatment Improve Your Everyday Life?
As you can imagine, the main benefit of cataract surgery is that you can see much better than you previously could. This means you can do all the things you like, including driving, reading, drawing, or watching Netflix, without it being a struggle.
Aside from dramatically restoring your vision, the surgery can boost your independence, improve your mental and emotional well-being, and enhance your safety. Some studies suggest you can even reduce your risk of suffering from dementia, which is good news as you get older.
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