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Is lens replacement the same as cataract surgery?

Have you been considering cataract surgery? Do you want to eliminate the need for reading glasses or contact lenses for good? While these two procedures might sound the same, there are differences between lens replacement surgery and cataract surgery.

In this blog post, we will talk about how these eye surgeries are alike and different. This will help you choose the right procedure for you.

What is cataract surgery?

Cataracts occur when the natural lens in the eye becomes cloudy or opaque. This cloudiness prevents light from entering the eye, resulting in blurred vision. Cataract surgery removes the eye’s natural lens and replaces it with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).

Doctors can customize the IOL for each patient’s vision solution based on their prescriptions. It can fix vision problems like nearsightedness (can’t see far) or farsightedness (can’t see close).

What is lens replacement surgery?

Lens replacement is similar to cataract surgery in that it also involves replacing the natural lens of the eye with an IOL. However, unlike cataracts which result in cloudy vision, refractive lens exchange (RLE) is used to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness.

You can do this alone or with other vision correction procedures like LASIK or PRK for better vision. This type of surgery is most commonly performed on people between 40-55 years old who wear reading glasses or bifocals due to presbyopia (age-related nearsightedness).

The difference between lens replacement & cataract surgery

The main difference between cataract and lens replacement surgery is why they are performed. Cataract surgery is done to treat a medical condition – cataracts – and improve vision while lens replacement surgery is done to improve vision without having to wear glasses or contacts and prevent cataracts in the future. Rest assured lens replacement and cataract surgery have a high success rate of 95%1https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559253/. This is mainly due to how long this form of surgery has been practised and researched over the decades.

The type of lens matters

Whether you’re having lens replacement or cataract surgery, there are different lens options available to you. This is much better than what you would receive from the NHS. They usually only provide monofocal IOLs for cataract surgery, which is the standard option we also offer.

Monofocal lenses will successfully treat your cataract. They also either aid in correcting your farsightedness or your nearsightedness, but not both at the same time.

Our premium IOLs are:

  • EDoF lenses: This stands for “extended depth of focus” and these treat intermediate vision such as computer-based tasks.
  • Multifocal IOLs: These provide the best flexibility and treat near, intermediate and distance vision problems.
  • Toric IOLs: These address symptoms of astigmatism.

Deciding between cataract surgery and lens replacement requires careful consideration of various factors. Cataract surgery is typically recommended when the natural lens of the eye becomes clouded, leading to vision impairment. On the other hand, lens replacement surgery is often chosen for individuals with refractive errors such as myopia or hyperopia, who want to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

One of the main factors to consider when choosing between these two procedures is the underlying cause of the vision issue. If cataracts are the main reason for the vision impairment, cataract surgery may be the more appropriate option. However, if refractive errors are the primary concern, lens replacement surgery may be a better choice.

When deciding between the two procedures, it’s important to consider your individual needs and lifestyle goals. If cataracts are affecting your vision a lot, cataract surgery can help improve your quality of life. However, if you are looking to correct refractive errors and reduce your reliance on corrective lenses, lens replacement surgery may be more suitable for you.

It’s important to speak with an experienced eye doctor. They can help you review your options and determine the best treatment for you. Your eye doctor will evaluate your eye health, vision needs, and lifestyle goals to help you make an informed decision about your treatment plan. Explore your options and gather information to make the best choice for your eye health and well-being.

Book a free video appointment today. By understanding more about each procedure, you can make an informed choice about your future visual health with confidence!

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What our patients say…

“My vision has improved tremendously, and it’s like having HDTV installed! Once again, many thanks.”

A portrait representing Mr. P.L., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent glaucoma treatmentMr PL

“To Mr Nguyen, Thank you so very much, the berries are very red, as are the traffic lights…and I can see my cat’s whiskers!”

A portrait representing Mrs. G.E., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent cataract eye surgeryMrs GE

“I never thought I would describe eye surgery as a pleasant experience, but it was; you are a gifted person. I am sure you have heard this many times before, but the contrast before and after such a short surgery is truly remarkable.”

A portrait representing Mr. M.H., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent glaucoma treatmentMr MH

“I never imagined the difference it would make, black and grey cows now look black and white! Such an amazing difference. I consider, we, as human beings are very privileged to be able to have this treatment.”

A portrait representing Mrs. L.B., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent cataract eye surgeryMrs LB

“I cannot thank you enough for the care and attention given to me during my recent cataract removals. As someone of a somewhat nervous disposition, you made the whole experience less stressful than otherwise it might have been.”

A portrait representing Mrs. M.F., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent cataract eye surgeryMrs MF

“It is now just over a year since you carried out the procedure on my second eye. I still awake in wonder each morning when I wake and can see clearly.”

A portrait representing Mr. B.C., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent cataract eye surgeryMr BC

“Thank you for the new lens you fitted to my right eye. I cannot believe how much better my vision is – massive improvement for driving.”

A portrait representing Mr. B.F., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent lens replacementMr BF

“I was facing the possibility of being unable to drive because of poor vision, but now, after 70 plus years of wearing spectacles, I no longer need them! Amazing! Added to that, my snooker has improved enormously!”

A portrait representing Mr. D.V., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent lens replacementMr DV

“The miraculous improvement from my extreme short-sightedness coupled with cataracts in both eyes is a massive life change, and I am enormously grateful to you all. I wish to thank you most sincerely for all the expertise, care and kindness shown to me.”

A portrait representing Mrs. C.J., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent glaucoma treatmentMrs CJ

“From my initial consultation through to walking out the door following surgery, I found the whole process to be fantastic and could not have wished for a nicer experience.”

A portrait representing Mr. S.C., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent glaucoma treatmentMr SC

“I am very pleased to say my eyesight is so much better. I am so delighted that I can see very clearly again, no blurred vision at all. It’s brilliant.”

A portrait representing Mrs. M.L., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent cataract eye surgeryMrs ML

“I am writing to thank you and your wonderful team in enabling me to see a world that I almost forgot existed. The vibrancy of colour and brightness are a joy to behold.”

A portrait representing Mrs. M.W., a patient of Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist, who underwent glaucoma treatmentMrs CS

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A portrait of Dan Nguyen, the Consultant Eye Surgeon at Dan Nguyen Ophthalmologist

Mr Dan Nguyen

MBChB MBA FRCOphth FRANZCO
Consultant Eye Surgeon

Hello, I’m Dan Nguyen!

I‘m your guide to better vision. In times when long waiting lists and unclear options are the norm, it’s easy to feel stuck and worried about your eye health. Don’t let that hold you back. I’m here to show you that you can skip the endless queues and make real progress. Remember, you’re unique, not just another name on a list. Every patient I see receives top-notch care, tailored to their specific needs and lifestyle. Once you’ve had your treatment, you’ll be able to embrace a life that’s vivid, colourful, and just the way you like it. So what are you waiting for? Stop waiting and start living!

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