The consultation fee will depend on whether it is an initial consultation or a review (i.e. follow-up consultation) and may also vary depending on location.

Other costs you may incur include:

• Diagnostic tests in order to thoroughly examine your eyes. These allow us to correctly diagnose your condition and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
• Laser or surgical treatment (if recommended). Your ophthalmologist or the reception staff will provide you with a detailed quote – please make sure you read this before agreeing to treatment. Some procedures may qualify for cover under private health insurance.

It’s important that you have a consultation and eye examination before we provide you with a quote because there are a number of factors that can affect the time, materials/equipment used and complexity of the surgery. During this consultation, your ophthalmologist will make a diagnosis, ensure there are no other issues with your eyes, discuss your treatment options plus the benefits/risks, and give you a detailed quote.

For example, there are a number of different lens options to choose from if you are having cataract surgery and the surgical technique may need to be modified if there is another eye condition present, such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy.

Procedures often take time and require specialized sterilized equipment. If the procedure room or specialized equipment is not available at the time of your appointment, our reception staff will book your procedure in for another suitable time.

However, if you require urgent treatment (e.g., for a sight-threatening condition), this is often performed on the same day as your consultation.

We book patients in a way designed to ensure maximum efficiency and keep waiting times to a minimum. However, our doctors are often referred emergency and urgent cases because we treat the full range of eye conditions. These patients require immediate attention and may be at risk of losing their sight. Our doctors are registered and professional healthcare providers and have a duty of care to attend to patients who require emergency or urgent care promptly.

Therefore, there may be occasions when our doctors unexpectedly run over time. We understand that waiting for appointments can be frustrating, but please be assured that you would receive this same priority care should it ever be necessary.

Depending on your initial symptom(s) or complaint, there are a number of standard tests we perform – even if it seems like a simple problem. While some tests may seem unnecessary, they help us to make the correct clinical diagnosis and determine the right treatment for you. It also saves time to perform these tests before you see the ophthalmologist so that you don’t need to re-join the test queue or return at a later date to undergo these tests.

On arrival

The receptionist will ask for information such as your contact details, referring doctor and if you have private health insurance.

Testing by the optometrist

You will then be seen by an optometrist. An optometrist is a trained healthcare provider who diagnoses and investigates diseases of the eye and eye movements. Your optometrist will take a medical history from you and use this to decide what, if any, testing is required. Many of these tests can be performed on the same day, but some may need to be scheduled for a later date.

Once the relevant tests have been performed, the optometrist will provide these results to your ophthalmologist.

Consultation with the ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who has undertaken further specialist training in disorders of the eye. During the consultation, your ophthalmologist will go over the relevant parts of your medical history, examine your eyes and review your test results. In many cases, a diagnosis can be confirmed during the consultation and a treatment plan agreed upon. Occasionally, further tests will be required.

After your consultation

You will be directed to the reception or dispensing desk to make another appointment (if required) or to be discharged from the clinic. Our clinical staff generally allow 1 hour for the consultation and tests – this may seem like a long time, but we need to be thorough to ensure the delivery of high-quality care and the best possible outcome for you.

We always Endeavor to keep waiting times as short as possible, but please also note there may be times when our doctors and optometrists run late due to unexpected emergencies. As medical specialists, our doctors are required to attend to emergency patients (particularly in situations where there is a risk of vision loss). We appreciate your patience when this occurs and our staff will update you about any changes to your appointment time.

What do I need to check before my appointment?

Please confirm the following details prior to your appointment:

The length of time you are likely to be at the clinic

• Whether you need someone to accompany/drive you home
• Depending on your condition, we may use dilating eye drops to properly examine the back of your eye. These drops can cause blurry vision and increase your sensitivity to light for 4–6 hours. In this case, you will generally need to make alternative arrangements to get home.
• If you need to bring your glasses or glasses prescription
• If you need to stop wearing contact lenses before your appointment. Contact lens use can change the shape of your cornea, which may interfere with some tests (e.g. corneal topography).
• Whether there are likely to be any out-of-pocket costs. There may be fees associated with the consultation, as well as various eye tests and treatments.

What is diabetic eye disease? This is a term used to describe the common eye complications seen in people with diabetes. It includes diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular oedema, cataracts and glaucoma. 

Can I prevent diabetic retinopathy? 

You can reduce your risk by having your eyes checked as soon as possible after being diagnosed with diabetes (this is called a screening test) and then at regular intervals thereafter. Keeping the diabetes under control is the most important thing you can do – this means eating a balanced diet, getting exercise, not smoking, and monitoring your blood sugar levels. You should also see your doctor regularly to have your blood pressure and cholesterol levels checked. If you experience any changes in your vision, have your eyes checked immediately. 

What’s the difference between diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular oedema? 

Diabetic macular oedema is a complication of diabetic retinopathy. It occurs when the swelling involves the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for central vision. Vision can become blurred and distorted, resulting in trouble reading, recognizing faces and driving. Macular oedema (swelling) is the usual cause of vision loss related to diabetes and the level of impairment can be significant.

 Can diabetic retinopathy be cured?

 Vision can often be improved by treatment, but the main goal is to stabilize your condition and prevent it from getting worse. The three main treatments of diabetic retinopathy are injections into the eye, laser treatment or vitrectomy surgery. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate course of treatment. 

Does smoking cause diabetic eye disease?

 Smoking is not a risk factor for diabetic eye damage, but it can damage the eye in other ways. It increases the risk of developing cataracts, blockages of retinal arteries and the wet form of age-related macular degeneration. Diabetics who smoke also increase their risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney failure. 

Are the treatments for diabetic eye diseases painful? 

Special anaesthetic eye drops are usually used to prevent pain and, for patients undergoing vitrectomy surgery, a sedative is given to relieve anxiety. Following laser treatment or surgery, you may feel some mild discomfort the next day.

What is day surgery?

Day surgery is designed for people who are basically fit and healthy. It allows them to have an operation, arriving and leaving on the same day. This avoids the need to go to a larger hospital and eliminates the costs of overnight stays. The average stay is 3 to 5 hours and most patients need another adult to accompany them (including to take them home safely). It’s also important that someone is with you for the first night following your operation. 

Who can arrange a surgery booking?

This is something that your doctor or our staff will organize for you. They will consult with you to confirm a suitable time and date. 

What about payment?

 For those of you who have private health insurance, your account will be forwarded on your behalf to your medical insurer. However, you will need to pay any balance not covered by your insurer on the day of the surgery. If you do not have private health insurance, we ask that your account be finalized on admission.

How do I prepare for my surgery?

If you are booked to have surgery, please take note of the following:

• Adults need to fast for at least 5 hours before arrival
• Smoking is harmful to health and is a hazard before an operation. Please do not smoke for 24 hours before surgery
• If you regularly take any medications, please discuss this with your surgeon prior to surgery. Also, please bring your medications with you to the day surgery 
• Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.

What should I bring on the day of surgery? 

Please bring the following items (where applicable):

• Your completed Day Surgery Consent Form (if not already returned). Please ensure you have filled out both sides
• Your Patient Admission Form (if not already returned). Please ensure you have filled out both sides
•   Your medical insurance card

Can I drive myself to and from the day surgery? 

No. Because you will be given an anaesthetic, driving home is not an option. Please arrange for a family member, friend or another responsible adult to accompany you home. 

What will happen when I arrive at day surgery?

Please make your way to reception, where you will be required to complete an admission form (if you haven’t already done so). Ideally, it’s best to complete this and send it back to your clinic before the day of your surgery. After being admitted, you will have a consultation with one of our nursing staff. If you wish, the person who has accompanied you can also be present. Please feel free to ask any questions – our day surgery team are happy to keep you fully informed.

 What happens immediately after surgery?

 After surgery, you’ll be moved to the Recovery Unit. Here, our staff will monitor your recovery until you are ready to be discharged.

 What happens when I leave the day surgery?

 In the 24 hours following your anaesthetic, you MUST NOT drive, operate machinery, drink alcohol, conduct business or sign contracts. If you have any unexpected changes to your condition or an emergency in relation to your surgery, phone our clinic straight away. The number will be provided on your postoperative instruction sheet.

When will I need cataract surgery? 

In the early stages, some cataracts can be left untreated. When your sight deteriorates to a point where it interferes with your ability to carry out daily tasks (e.g., seeing in low-light situations such as at night), it could be time to consider surgery. 

What is the cataract surgery success rate? 

Traditional or manual cataract surgery is considered one of the safest surgical procedures in the world today, with a success rate of around 99%. Laser cataract surgery may reduce the risk of complications even further. Serious complications are rare with cataract surgery. 

How long does cataract surgery take? 

A typical procedure takes less than 30 minutes. Allowing for admission, preparation and recovery time, you’ll be in the day surgery for around 2 to 3 hours.

 Will cataract surgery hurt? 

We will administer a local anaesthetic (numbing drops) to your eye and you may also be given a sedative to help you relax. You should feel no pain.

 What happens if I blink during cataract surgery?

 Your surgeon will ensure that your eyelid is gently held open throughout the procedure so that you cannot blink. 

If I have cataract surgery, will I be awake during the procedure?

 Probably, but not necessarily – some people even fall asleep during the surgery. You are not required to be awake for the operation. If I have cataract surgery, 

what will I see while I am operated on?

 You may see a bit of light and some vague movement or you may see nothing at all. You will not be able to see what the surgeon is doing to your eye. 

Will my eye hurt after cataract surgery?

 You may feel some mild discomfort beginning a few hours after surgery. For most people, this resolves with a week, but may last longer in some cases. You will be given treatments to manage any discomfort or pain. 

How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery? 

Your sight will usually recover within days but typically fluctuates for about a month before stabilizing. If you notice any significant reduction in your vision, tell your surgeon immediately. The protective shield is usually worn for the first day and your surgeon may also recommend the shield be used for the first few nights after the operation – this is usually the case if you can’t stop rubbing your eyes. Cataract surgery does not usually involve stitches. Normal daily activities such as light housework can be resumed within a couple of days. With routine and successful surgery, patients are usually fit for all physical activities and contact sports one month after cataract surgery – this includes sparring in martial arts.

 How long before I can drive a car after cataract surgery?

 Driving is not recommended for the first few days after surgery to allow your eye to settle.

 Can I have cataract surgery in both eyes at the same time?

 It is generally preferable to give the first eye a chance to settle before planning surgery and lens requirements for the second eye. Even though cataract surgery is quite safe, operating on both eyes at the same time may increase the risk of serious complications and visual impairment (e.g., if both eyes were to get infected at the same time). However, there may be some situations where your surgeon recommends having both eyes done at once. 

When can I have cataract surgery for my second eye?

 Your doctor will be able to help you determine when the second eye can be operated on. Although it varies, most surgery is around two weeks apart. In the case of multifocal implants, early second-eye surgery hastens the recovery. Patients who are very short- or long-sighted also benefit from both eyes being operated on in quick succession, as it is common that their eyes are now significantly unbalanced. During the period between surgeries, a contact lens may be used to balance the eye that has not yet been operated on.

 Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery or lens exchange? 

Today’s replacement lenses can also be used to correct pre-existing vision problems due to short-sightedness, long-sightedness and/or astigmatism. For example, trifocal lenses provide focus at near, intermediate and far distances. These are typically the best option for achieving clear vision without glasses, although there are no guarantees. The most suitable candidates are over 55 years, rely heavily on glasses/contact lenses and are long-sighted. If you are quick to notice visual imperfections, then glasses may remain your best choice.

 What are the risks from cataract surgery? 

Cataract surgery is one of the most successful procedures in medicine, so the risk factor is relatively minimal. However, as with any surgery, complications can occur and may be related to the procedure itself or to the anaesthesia. Most of the complications from cataract surgery are minor and can be corrected. The success rate is high (99%), with around a 1 in 1000 risk of permanently impaired eyesight. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of cataract surgery so that you can make a fully informed decision.

 What are the potential complications of cataract and lens surgery? 

Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is the most common potential complication of cataract and lens surgery. PCO can occur when the back of the capsule (housing the lens) thickens. This can cause your vision to appear cloudy but can be treated quickly using a YAG laser outpatient procedure and eye drops.

 Does laser cataract surgery cost more?

 As with any new technology, laser cataract surgery costs more than traditional cataract surgery. This is due to the operating cost of the laser.

 Is everyone suitable for laser cataract surgery?

 No, there are certain patients who are not suitable for laser cataract surgery. Your surgeon will be able to advise if you are suitable after completing a thorough examination of your eyes.

Dr. Juliet Otiti Sengeri is the Medical Director and lead surgeon at Georgina Eye Clinic. Her surgical specialty is the anterior segment, and she has extensive experience in the treatment of cataracts, corneal conditions and glaucoma. She is a member of the American Association of Ophthalmology and an alumnus of the Harvard Medical School.

YES! We recommend a two weeks’ stay at home after a PKE surgery.

Yes. Cataract surgery can be combined with other surgeries such as glaucoma filtration surgeries, squint correction procedures, corneal transplants ant complex vitreous and retina surgeries.

Theoretically, both eyes can be operated at the same sitting but practically for various reasons, surgeons prefer to operate only one eye at a time. An interval of at least one week is recommended between the two surgeries if the patient insists of having both eyes operated early.

Yes, cataract surgery should be performed if there is visual potential in the eye. An IOL can even be implanted in the
child if older than 24months. Further medical treatment will be required after surgery to improve vision in that eye.

No. However after-cataract (posterior capsule opacification) occurs in 50% of adults within 5years following an
uncomplicated cataract surgery. This is easily treated by Yag laser.

There are many reasons for this. Most commonly its due to other diseases within the eye especially those affecting
the retina and optic nerve.
It is difficult to evaluate the appearance of the retina and optic nerve in a patient with cataract since the cataract
prevents a good view of these structures. In these cases, an ultrasound test tells us whether all structures are in
the right positions or not. The functional status can only be gauged by indirect testing such as ability to recognize
colors, the papillary light reflex, visual evoked potential test, etc.
In cataracts which are not completely mature, a test called PAM (Potential acuity meter) can give a rough estimate
of the possible post operative visual result.

Usually, No. Occasionally, sutures are removed if they cause excessive post operative astigmatism (power), or
produce irritation.

Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful of all surgeries in the eye. However infection or uncontrollable bleeding during surgery (which rarely occurs) can cause loss of vision or even loss of the eye itself. Fortunately, these complications are very rare.

IOLs are lifelong. Only in very rare instances, the IOL is removed. These situations include infection inside the eye,
Vitreous surgery for complicated retinal detachments, or if the power of the implanted IOL is not optimum, etc.
These situations are very rare.

Cataract surgeries are always performed under the operating microscope which provides a magnified view of the
operating field, thus allowing fine, meticulous surgery to be performed. This is sometimes called ‘microsurgery’.

Cataract surgery is not painful. The type of anaesthesia to be employed is decided by the surgeon and physician.

Diabetics are evaluated by the physician before clearance for surgery is given. Poorly controlled diabetes is a risk
factor for post operative infection. Mild to moderate inflammation (reaction in the eye), and worsening of diabetic
retinopathy (affection of the retina in diabetics) can occur after cataract surgery. A detailed retinal evaluation before
and after cataract surgery is mandatory.

A mature cataract has to be operated as soon as possible, as it blocks nearly all the light from entering the eye,
resulting in poor vision. At other times, the decision has to be taken by you depending on your visual needs.