A “cataract” operation is needed when the lens in your eye degenerates and becomes opaque. The lens is removed and replaced by an artificial one. Cataracts are usually age related but also often arise after other operations within the eye, such as for retinal detachments.
Cataract removal and insertion of an artificial lens is a relatively simple operation, taking less than 30 minutes, with most patients being out of hospital within three hours. The results are excellent, with few post-operative problems.
The operation used to be slow and complex, and therefore expensive. Over the years with better technology, the operation has become much faster and more straightforward. However, doctors’ fees have not fallen and quite large out-of-pocket costs remain.
The operation is done in public hospitals, private hospitals or specialized eye day procedure centres.
Public hospital care is free but access can be limited by long waiting lists.
When you see the eye specialist he will usually recommend the procedure be done in whichever private hospital or procedure centre s/he usually uses. If you don’t have private insurance or it does not cover you for cataract surgery you should ask about public hospital care.
Increasingly these operations are being done in specialised eye clinics or day procedure centres. Some of these centres offer attractive packages for uninsured patients as well as those with insurance. These can be very affordable even without insurance. If your eye specialist does not mention these as an option, you can often find them on the internet (search for cataract day procedure centre). You may not need another GP referral. Read their ads carefully, make sure they include the doctors’ fees (including the anaesthetist) before you signup.
Some people need to have both eyes done. The procedures should usually done on different days, a week or two apart. Some doctors only charge one set of out-of-pocket fees, others charge two sets of fees.