Advanced Cataract Surgery
Precise cataract removal and freedom from glasses for life with premium multifocal intraocular lenses
What is a Cataract?
Cataracts are part of the normal ageing process and one the most common causes of vision loss as we age. Most people beyond the age of 60 years have some degree of cataract, resulting in a reduction of visual quality.
As the natural lens ages, it goes from crystal clear and flexible, to hard and cloudy. Vision becomes blurry and images are not as bright or colourful as they used to be. Daily activities such as reading and computer work are difficult without the aid of glasses; and sensitivity to glare from the sun or oncoming headlights increases.
Treatment for Cataracts
The only effective treatment currently available to cure cataracts is surgery. With approximately 15 million procedures performed each year, cataract surgery is the most frequent surgical operation conducted worldwide.
The procedure involves replacing the clouding natural lens with a clear artificial implant. In the majority of cases globally, a single focus (monofocal) lens is used.
Freedom Eye Laser offer state of the art technology with premium multifocal intraocular lenses. Dr James Genge has sub-specialty Fellowship training in refractive surgery and vast experience using the most advanced optics.
"The most remarkable, unexpected change is the amount of light I see and the colours.”
THE FREEDOM EYE LASER DIFFERENCE
Advanced cataract surgery at Freedom Eye Laser using premium multifocal intraocular lenses uniquely achieves an impressive range of high quality vision: up close for reading, in between when using computers and sharp in the distance. The spectacular visual results are unattainable by any other means.
You will recover clear vision with perfect depth perception. Colours leap back to vivid and the improvement lasts for life.
Freedom Eye Laser patients report that their personal lives improve enormously, with a renewed sense of freedom and independence. Research verifies that improved vision enhances self-confidence and overall life satisfaction, leading to a better quality of life (Knudston, et.al., 2005).
COMPARISON TO OTHER TREATMENTS
Freedom Eye Laser is committed to safe and effective procedures that achieve excellent visual results.
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| Advanced Cataract Surgery | |
| Depth perception maintained | |
| Near vision for both eyes without glasses | |
| Computer vision for both eyes without glasses | |
| Distance vision for both eyes without glasses |
When choosing the best option for your needs and lifestyle, there are 3 key elements to consider:
Traditional cataract surgery involves implantation of single focus lenses to replace the clouded cataract lens. Typically, the lens selected would correct distance vision only. Reading glasses are therefore still an obtrusive necessity.
Monovision with cataract surgery Monofocal lenses can be used to attempt to correct both distance and near vision in Cataract Surgery. As monofocal lenses have only 1 focal point they can only achieve this by providing one eye for distance and one for reading. 3D depth perception is lost and visual quality is compromised due to the power discrepancy between the two eyes. Without depth perception, we cannot accurately determine the relative size of objects or how far away they are. This can cause difficulty with everyday activities such as pouring a cup of tea, parking a car, safely crossing the road, threading a needle or navigating downstairs.
Premium multifocal lenses with advanced cataract surgery is the only approach that can provide the full spectrum of vision – distance, intermediate and near vision in both eyes with perfect depth perception, for life. We select the superior procedure to achieve your goals, then customise your treatment so that it is as individual as you are.
Manual versus laser-assisted cataract surgery
Freedom Eye Laser is committed to the latest technology, only when it is safest and most effective. Given the Refractive Lens Exchange procedure is the same as in cataract surgery, there are two options to consider – traditional manual surgery versus laser-assisted surgery.
Traditional manual cataract surgery is the most common surgery performed worldwide and is recognised as being both safe and effective.
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS) was introduced to Australia in 2009 as the latest technology. Many practices invested in these expensive machines with the hope it would be a safer and more effective option. Recent independent research indicates this information is misleading.
When comparing the efficacy and safety of Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) to standard manual cataract surgery, Popovic and colleagues (2016) analysed thousands of procedures and concluded that in the hands of a surgeon who has mastered cataract surgery, the risk of tearing the capsule and complicating the procedure is 10x higher with laser cataract surgery. A Cochrane analysis (2016) of 13 studies found no significant differences in visual outcomes or complication rates for FLACS versus traditional surgery. 11 of the 13 studies were either funded by the manufacturer of the laser or had financial links with the manufacturer.
For further reading on this topic, see the Eyeworld review here.
While Dr Genge has trained and is accredited to use the femtosecond cataract laser, he chooses the manual surgical option with exceptional results. This decision is based on a large body of current, independent research suggesting that the additional cost of over $800 per eye to the patient, is at the very least unnecessary… and at worst, less safe.
Dr James Genge dedicates time to understand each patient’s visual goals, thoroughly explains the process and allows time for questions to ensure you are confident and informed. His involvement is maintained through the entire process – from assessment to postoperative care and beyond. While this seems like a standard approach, we can assure you that it is the Freedom Eye Laser difference. We pride ourselves on personalised care and superb results.
What to expect
From the initial consultation through to post operative checks, Dr James Genge will see you through the entire journey.
Call us to discuss the best solution for you. We will lock in an assessment time to kick start your journey toward excellent vision and freedom from glasses.
You will be greeted warmly by our reception staff who will register your details and invite you to take a seat in our calm and comfy lounge area.
Our Orthoptic staff will lead you to the diagnostic rooms where they will take a medical history, determine your prescription and take precise measurements of your eyes in preparation for your consultation with Dr Genge.
During your consultation, Dr Genge will ask about your lifestyle and your visual goals. He will conduct a thorough eye examination and evaluate the results of tests performed. Dr Genge will then offer an explanation of your vision, discuss the best treatment approach and allow time for you to ask questions.
Following your consultation with Dr Genge, our practice manager will explain the process for booking surgery. We can contact your private health insurer to check your cover and provide you with a transparent quote.
You are welcome to book in at this time or take the information home to consider. You are likely to be at the practice for approximately an hour and a half.
An information pack is provided outlining the process for surgery, with forms to complete and prescription eye drops to commence 3 days prior to surgery.
Patients are to attend the hospital approximately 1½ hours before surgery is scheduled and typically fast for 6 hours prior.
You will be admitted to the day hospital and assessed by the anaesthetist.
The operation itself takes just 15 minutes per eye and you are often leaving the hospital about an hour or so later.
Shields are placed over eye(s) for the remainder of the day.
Patients attend the practice in the morning for their day 1 postoperative appointment and the big reveal.
Eye shields are removed and the vision is tested. This is the most exciting part of all! Read more about ‘The Moment’ our patients discover their new vision.
Any sport that causes perspiration, swimming and make-up worn on or around the eyes should be avoided for 2 weeks.
Drops continue for 4 weeks and a check up with Dr Genge happens at 3 months.
FAQs
Advanced cataract surgery involves removing your eye’s clouded natural lens and replacing it with a premium multifocal intraocular lens, rather than a standard single-focus (monofocal) lens. While standard cataract surgery typically restores clear distance vision, advanced cataract surgery is designed to also give you clear vision up close and at intermediate range, reducing your reliance on glasses for daily tasks like reading and computer work.
Cataracts develop gradually as the eye’s natural lens hardens and clouds with age, and many people don’t notice symptoms until vision changes start affecting everyday life. Common early signs include blurrier or duller colours, increased glare from sunlight or headlights at night, and needing more light to read comfortably.
Cataract surgery is a short, well-established procedure and remains one of the most frequently performed surgeries in the world. During the operation, your surgeon makes a tiny incision to access the eye, removes the clouded natural lens, and replaces it with your chosen intraocular lens implant.
Premium multifocal lenses are designed to provide clear vision at near, intermediate and distance ranges, something standard (monofocal) lenses can’t do, since they typically correct for only one distance, usually vision at a distance. Because both eyes continue to work together naturally, depth perception is generally well preserved, supporting everyday activities like driving and navigating stairs with confidence.
Benefits commonly associated with premium multifocal lenses include:
- Reduced dependence on glasses for reading, screens, and distance vision
- Vivid, natural colour perception once the clouded lens has been replaced
- Long-lasting results, since the artificial lens will not develop cataracts
- Improved confidence in daily activities such as driving, especially at night
Cataract surgery is considered a safe and well-tolerated procedure, but as with any surgery, it’s important to understand the possible risks beforehand. Your surgeon will review your individual health history and eye condition to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
Points patients are typically advised to consider include:
- A short adjustment period as your eyes and brain adapt to a new lens
- Temporary glare, halos, or light sensitivity in the days following surgery
- Potential risks and their solutions
- The need to avoid swimming, strenuous activity, and eye makeup for a short period after surgery
Recovery from cataract surgery is generally quick, with many patients noticing improved vision within a day or two. A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled for the morning after surgery, when protective shields are removed and your vision is checked for the first time. Prescribed eye drops are typically used for several weeks to support healing, and it’s recommended to avoid swimming, heavy perspiration, and eye makeup during the initial recovery period.
The cost of cataract surgery depends on the type of intraocular lens selected and your individual treatment plan, with premium multifocal lenses generally involving a higher cost than standard monofocal lenses. Many patients are eligible for private health insurance rebates, and clinics will often help clarify your level of cover before your procedure.
Before proceeding, it’s worth considering:
- Requesting an itemised quote covering consultation, surgery, and post-operative care
- Confirming with your private health fund what portion of the procedure is covered
- Checking whether the quote applies per eye or covers both eyes
- Asking about any out-of-pocket costs specific to premium lens options