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Refractive Cataract Surgery2023-07-21T14:10:12+00:00

Restore your vision and free yourself from glasses with refractive cataract surgery

Discover how this modern advancement on traditional cataract surgery removes your cataracts AND eliminates your dependency on glasses

Restore your vision and free yourself from glasses with refractive cataract surgery

Discover how this modern advancement on traditional cataract surgery removes your cataracts AND eliminates your dependency on glasses

Did you know there are two types of cataract surgery?

Dr Watson explains how refractive cataract surgery provides patients with further options to get what they want

Fix your cataracts and even read again without glasses in 3 easy steps

Cataract treatment options can be confusing. We’ve made the journey as straightforward as can be

Get in touch

The first step is to assess your cataracts to get a clear answer on which cataract treatment options (like the option to restore your reading vision) will suit you best. Give our friendly team a call on 0800 99 2020

We’ll meet

At your assessment, we’ll answer your questions and give you a clear and honest recommendation based on your visual needs and lifestyle. You’ll leave with a confident understanding of the best treatment option for your unique eyes.

Regain your freedom

People often tell us how thrilled they are by the restored clarity of their vision. Those that also choose the option to restore their reading vision, tell us how young they feel now that they can read again without glasses.

Restore your vision and enjoy more colour and clarity in minutes

Our patients are overjoyed by the detail they experience after refractive cataract surgery

Rewind the clock on your eyes

Suppose you feel disappointed by poor vision and the inconvenience of glasses. In that case, it can be even more frustrating when cataracts come along and render them ineffective. What now?

Refractive cataract surgery is the answer. This treatment offers you a whole new world of improved vision beyond what standard cataract surgery can provide. You’ll obtain the best vision your eyes are capable of seeing, without cataracts and with a significantly reduced dependence on glasses.

Feel liberated from cataracts and glasses

Before this revolutionary treatment, our patients feel stuck. They’ve always lived full and active lives, but then cataracts come along and put a stop to all the fun. Then they discover refractive cataract surgery. In a matter of minutes, patients go from dull and cloudy vision to bright, vivid colour. And what’s even more amazing is they can now see a range of distances without their glasses!

Embrace everything you enjoy

After refractive cataract surgery, you’ll never have to pass up an activity you enjoy again. Whether you like long hikes, driving at night or reading a good book, your vision will be able to keep up with your lifestyle. Plus you’ll never have to worry about where you last left your glasses!

Don’t be a victim of the traditional model of ageing

A big mistake that many people make is thinking that ageing eyes are just a part of life and something that you must accept. Our patients will tell you that this treatment is one of the best things they’ve ever done in their lives. To be independent, to enjoy the colours of a sunset or the smile of a grandchild is priceless. Your only regret will be that you didn’t do it sooner.

Reclaim your vision and read again without glasses

Discover how this treatment can restore your vision with ease

Refractive Cataract Surgery suitability criteria

The majority of patients over 50 are suitable for refractive cataract surgery.

Refractive cataract surgery replaces the cataract lens in your eye with a new lens implant. It has the potential to improve your vision significantly, leaving you with less or even no reliance on glasses and contact lenses.

The procedure is pretty much identical to refractive lens exchange.

Procedure time

The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes. You can expect to be at the clinic for about an hour and a half, and then you can go home. You will be awake during the procedure, but you won’t feel anything. We will ensure your eyes are numb and comfortable using topical anaesthetic drops and gel. You also have the option to take some light sedation to help you relax. We will schedule the second eye surgery within 1-2 days.

Afterwards

Following surgery, someone needs to drive you home. They will also need to bring you back to the clinic the following day for the first check-up.

Typically, the vision has significantly improved.

You will need to use medicated drops for about three weeks.

Advantages
  • Permanent results
  • Significantly reduced or eliminated need for glasses and contact lenses.
  • Quick, painless procedure.
  • Short recovery time.
Disadvantages
  • Possible over or under correction that we may need to enhance with laser refractive surgery.

Cataract surgery is one of the most widely performed surgeries around the world. It has an excellent safety profile and is a very safe procedure with minimal risks.

We will customise the surgery according to your visual needs by using a wide range of the most advanced intraocular lenses on the market.

What happens during a cataract operation?

Cataract surgery is quick, painless and highly effective, so there’s no need to feel nervous. Even if you are a little worried, our friendly, highly trained team will make sure you feel completely at ease before, during and after your cataract operation.

Surgery customised to your eyes

Just as there are different types of glasses, there are also different types of intraocular lenses (IOL). It may even be possible to improve your eyesight to such an extent that you no longer have to rely on glasses at all.

Lenses used in a cataract operation can be:

  • Single focus intraocular lenses to correct long or short-sightedness
  • Multifocal focus intraocular lenses to correct both long and short-sightedness (in 80% of patients)
  • Toric intraocular lenses to correct astigmatism
What to expect from the procedure:

Before your operation, we will apply eye drops to dilate your pupil. You’ll also have the option of a mild sedative. We will then administer a painless, local anaesthetic and clean the skin surrounding your eyes. We will place sterile drapes around your head and face.

Using the ‘no stitch’ cataract surgery technique, we will remove the cataract and insert a new lens through a very small, self-sealing incision.
This highly advanced technique means recovery time is significantly reduced compared to other cataract surgery techniques.

You’ll be aware of voices throughout the cataract operation, but you will feel no pain or discomfort. An anaesthetist or nurse will be with you the whole time to make sure you are completely comfortable and at ease. After the cataract operation, you’ll be able to rest in comfort and enjoy a tea or coffee.

In most cases, vision is excellent the following day.

Recovery is rapid. Most patients can go home within just one hour of cataract surgery. You can continue with normal activities, such as driving, walking and sports, in a matter of days.

Fix your cataracts AND read again without glasses or contacts

As we age, many people find reading glasses frustrating and start to notice a cloudiness in their vision that was not there before. Book an appointment today and discover how you could make your eyes feel 10 to 20 years younger!

Fix your cataracts AND read again without glasses or contacts

As we age, many people find reading glasses frustrating and start to notice a cloudiness in their vision that was not there before. Book an appointment today and discover how you could make your eyes feel 10 to 20 years younger!

Book an appointment
Is your vision getting cloudy, blurry and dull?

Choose the option below that sounds most like you to discover your best solution

I have cataracts and want them removed

While cataracts are a natural part of the ageing process, you’d like to be rid of your cataracts so you can brighten up your dull and cloudy vision again.

Discover an option that restores your vision to how it looked before you got cataracts.

LEARN MORE

I have cataracts AND find glasses an inconvenience

Cataracts are a natural part of the ageing process. But, as they progress your vision worsens and your glasses become ineffective. Discover an option that not only treats cataracts but could remove your dependence on glasses too!

LEARN MORE

Watch the best patient education videos on refractive cataract surgery in New Zealand

Get a quick overview of everything you need to know about gaining visual freedom

What causes cataracts?

Cataracts are described as the clouding of the lens in the eye. Whilst it is often age-related, there are a few other causes that you should be aware of. In this short video, Dr Adam Watson tells you all you need to know about cataracts and their causes…

Meet our world-class surgeons

Our industry-leading experts are here to guide you every step of the way

Dr Nick Mantell

Dr Nick Mantell is a Refractive laser, Refractive Lens Exchange and Cataract Specialist. He has been working in private practice for 20 years.

LEARN MORE

Dr Peter Ring

With four decades at the forefront of eye surgery in New Zealand, Dr Ring was an early exponent of modern multi-focal technology. He was also part of the esteemed small team that introduced laser surgery to the country.

LEARN MORE

Dr Shanu Subbiah

A cataract, corneal and laser surgery specialist Dr Subbiah has been with Eye institute since 2013. His easy manner and affable nature have found a natural home in New Zealand medicine.

LEARN MORE

Dr Adam Watson

Dr Watson’s focus – pun intended – is the front of the eye. His combination of specialisations enables him to address the face, eyelids, tear drainage system, the surface of the eye and cornea together as a single functional unit to give the best possible outcome.

LEARN MORE

Prof Helen Danesh-Meyer

Professor Danesh-Meyer is an international authority on glaucoma and neuro-ophthalmology and one of the most highly regarded experts in her field.

LEARN MORE

Prof Charles McGhee

Professor Charles McGhee, a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon for 25 years, specialises in corneal diseases and cataract surgery.

LEARN MORE

Dr William Cunningham

Will is an acknowledged expert in cataract and vitreoretinal surgery. He splits his time between the Eye Institute and works publicly at the Greenlane Clinical Centre.

LEARN MORE

Dr Sophie Hill

Dr Hill completed her MBBS at St Georges University of London in 2008, also obtaining an Intercalated BSc from King’s College University, London.

LEARN MORE

Dr Peter Hadden

Dr Hadden specialises in vitreoretinal and cataract surgery, including the treatment of intraocular tumours. He has been at Eye Institute for 17 years.

LEARN MORE

Dr Narme Deva

Dr Narme Deva is a key opinion leader for Medical retina and Uveitis in New Zealand and an expert cataract surgeon. She has a logical approach, an empathetic manner and a passion for the pursuit of excellence.

LEARN MORE

Dr Liz Insull

Dr Elizabeth Insull is a New Zealand and UK trained Oculoplastic and Ophthalmic surgeon based at Eye Institute Hawke’s Bay at Kaweka Hospital.

LEARN MORE

Dr Kaliopy Matheos

Dr Kaliopy Matheos is a New Zealand-trained Ophthalmologist specialising in Glaucoma & Anterior Segment Surgery at the University of Toronto in Canada.

LEARN MORE

Dr Kevin Dunne

As part of his ophthalmology specialty training, Dr Dunne gained valuable experience in major centres such as Auckland and Wellington.

LEARN MORE

Dr Jay Meyer

Dr. Jay Meyer is a specialist eye surgeon with expertise in cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal diseases and surgeries. He has a gentle demeanour and provides personalised care by tailoring treatments to each patient’s needs.

LEARN MORE

Dr Graham Reeves

Dr Reeves has advanced training in the diagnosis and management of glaucoma. He offers a variety of laser and surgical treatments including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.

LEARN MORE

Dr Baswati Sahoo

Dr Baswati Sahoo is a cataract and glaucoma surgeon from India with over 15 years of experience in Ophthalmology.

LEARN MORE

Dr Shira Sheen

Shira completed Ophthalmology training in Israel, under the supervision of world known Ophthalmologist, Professor Ehud Assia.

LEARN MORE

Dr Ammar Binsadiq

Dr Ammar Binsadiq is a New Zealand-trained ophthalmologist with subspeciality training in medical retinal, cataract and vitreoretinal surgery.

LEARN MORE

Dr Narme Deva

Dr Narme Deva is a key opinion leader for Medical retina and Uveitis in New Zealand and an expert cataract surgeon. She has a logical approach, an empathetic manner and a passion for the pursuit of excellence.
LEARN MORE

Dr Peter Ring

With four decades at the forefront of eye surgery in New Zealand, Dr Ring was an early exponent of modern multi-focal technology. He was also part of the esteemed small team that introduced laser surgery to the country.
LEARN MORE

Dr Shanu Subbiah

A cataract, corneal and laser surgery specialist Dr Subbiah has been with Eye institute since 2013. His easy manner and affable nature have found a natural home in New Zealand medicine.
LEARN MORE

Dr Adam Watson

Dr Watson’s focus – pun intended – is the front of the eye. His combination of specialisations enables him to address the face, eyelids, tear drainage system, the surface of the eye and cornea together as a single functional unit to give the best possible outcome.
LEARN MORE

Prof Helen Danesh-Meyer

Professor Danesh-Meyer is an international authority on glaucoma and neuro-ophthalmology and one of the most highly regarded experts in her field.
LEARN MORE

Prof Charles McGhee

Professor Charles McGhee, a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon for 25 years, specialises in corneal diseases and cataract surgery.
LEARN MORE

Dr William Cunningham

Will is an acknowledged expert in cataract and vitreoretinal surgery. He splits his time between the Eye Institute and works publicly at the Greenlane Clinical Centre.
LEARN MORE

Dr Peter Hadden

Dr Hadden specialises in vitreoretinal and cataract surgery, including the treatment of intraocular tumours. He has been at Eye Institute for 17 years
LEARN MORE

Dr Liz Insull

Dr Elizabeth Insull is a New Zealand and UK trained Oculoplastic and Ophthalmic surgeon based at Eye Institute Hawke’s Bay at Kaweka Hospital.
LEARN MORE

Dr Kaliopy Matheos

Dr Kaliopy Matheos is a New Zealand-trained Ophthalmologist specialising in Glaucoma & Anterior Segment Surgery at the University of Toronto in Canada.
LEARN MORE

Dr Jay Meyer

Dr. Jay J. Meyer is a specialist eye surgeon with expertise in cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal diseases and surgeries. He has a gentle demeanour and provides personalised care by tailoring treatments to each patient’s needs.
LEARN MORE

Dr Graham Reeves

Dr Reeves has advanced training in the diagnosis and management of glaucoma. He offers a variety of laser and surgical treatments including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.
LEARN MORE

Dr Nick Mantell

Dr Nick Mantell is a Refractive laser, Refractive Lens Exchange and Cataract Specialist. He has been working in private practice for 20 years.
LEARN MORE

Dr Sophie Hill

Dr Hill completed her MBBS at St Georges University of London in 2008, also obtaining an Intercalated BSc from King’s College University, London..
LEARN MORE

Kevin Dunne

As part of his ophthalmology specialty training, Dr Dunne gained valuable experience in major centres such as Auckland and Wellington.
LEARN MORE

Dr Ammar Binsadiq

Dr Ammar Binsadiq is a New Zealand-trained ophthalmologist with subspeciality training in medical retinal, cataract and vitreoretinal surgery.
LEARN MORE

Dr Baswati Sahoo

Dr Baswati Sahoo is a cataract and glaucoma surgeon from India with over 15 years of experience in Ophthalmology.
LEARN MORE

Dr Shira Sheen

Dr Shira Sheen completed Ophthalmology training in Israel, under the supervision of world known Ophthalmologist, Professor Ehud Assia.
LEARN MORE

Dr Edward Hutchins

Dr Edward Hutchins specialises in Cataract, Corneal, Medical Retina & Vitreoretinal surgery.
LEARN MORE

Additional resources on refractive cataract surgery

Learn more about refractive cataract surgery from authoritative sources

Sometime after age 50, most of us are likely to hear our eye doctor say, “You have cataracts.”

A cataract is a clouding of the lens inside the eye, causing vision loss that cannot be corrected with glasses, contact lenses or corneal refractive surgery like LASIK.

As frightening as cataracts might sound, modern cataract surgery usually can restore vision lost to cataracts — and often can reduce your dependence on eyeglasses as well. Click here to read more.

Refractive error after cataract surgery typically manifests with blurred vision at distances where the patient was expecting to have good uncorrected visual acuity. Patients who are 20/20 uncorrected at distance with plano refraction may be unhappy if the goal was clear near vision. The amount of deviation from the target refraction at which the patient becomes symptomatic is largely dependent on the individual. Click here to read more.

Cataract surgery has evolved to become a refractive surgery in this modern era. The demand for a better quality of life with the best possible vision is constantly requested by our patients. How to best satisfy this demand thus becomes the utmost priority for eye surgeons. With the help of sophisticated refractive equipment and technologies that encompass newer understandings of ocular anatomy, physiology, and pathology, surgeons are increasingly able to achieve desired refractive outcomes after cataract surgery. Click here to read more.

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