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Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the lens inside your eye becomes cloudy from natural proteins that build up over time

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Cataracts, more common than you think

Cataracts happen to almost everyone, with 9 out of 10 Australians developing them by the time they're 65. Fortunately, cataracts can be removed through cataract surgery, which is one of the safest and most effective procedures performed today.

Picture of an eye with cataract

What causes cataracts?

Although some people may be born with a cataract, most cataracts develop naturally as we age. Cataracts can also be caused by other eye conditions, past eye surgery, or medical conditions such as diabetes. Long-term use of steroid medications, ultraviolet light exposure, and smoking may increase the risk of cataracts.

Medical illustration of a normal eye and an eye with cataract

What are cataracts?

The natural lens inside the eye helps to focus light onto the retina. Light must be able to pass through the lens in order for us to be able to see. When we are young the lens is clear and light passes through it very easily. As we age the lens may become cloudy leading to a loss of transparency we call cataracts. Cataracts prevent the light passing through the lens, reducing the ability to see clearly.

Senior man having bad eye sight and making effort to see the road.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

Cataracts may make it difficult for you to participate in daily activities, such as reading, working, or driving. The most common symptoms of cataracts are:

- Blurred or dim vision
- Difficulty seeing or driving at night
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Seeing halos (circles around lights)
- Colours may seem faded
- Double vision in the affected eye(s)
- Frequent prescription changes in your glasses

These symptoms may also be a sign of other eye conditions. If you have any of these symptoms, please make an appointment with your optometrist or Dr Kerr.

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A plan for clearer vision

The only way to remove cataracts and restore clear vision is through surgery. Modern cataract surgery, which is one of the safest and most effective procedures, replaces your natural cataract-affected lens with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).


Any procedure caries risks. Make an appointment with Dr Kerr to discuss the full benefits and risks based on your eye condition.

Enjoy life without cataracts

Take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do more with revitalised vision.

Cataract surgery

Cataract surgery replaces the clouded cataract lens with a new, clear lens.

The precious gift of eye sight is our most important sense. In eye surgery, nothing less than perfection will do.

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Dr Nathan Kerr
Melbourne Cataract Surgeon

Cataract surgery

Advantages available in melbourne
  • Clarity. Cataract surgery offers the opportunity to enhance your vision for greater, clearer focus.  
  • Satisfaction. Most people who have had cataract surgery say they wish they had done it sooner. 
  • Comfort. There is little to no discomfort during the process.
  • Relief. Most people say cataract surgery was easier than they expected. 
LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR CATARACT SURGERY OPTIONS

Better vision. Better life. 

Cataract surgery can have a transformative impact on your vision, which may affect many other areas of your health and happiness. 

Spirit

Increase in happiness

Mind

Reduced risk of cognitive decline and depression

Balance

Reduced risk of falls and hip fractures

Health

Faster walking and better sleep

Picture showing clear vision after cataract surgery

See how cataract surgery can restore your vision

One of Melbourne's leading cataract surgeons

Dr Nathan Kerr uses the latest technologies in cataract surgery and is dedicated to achieve the best possible results for his patients.

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Frequently asked questions

Dr Nathan Kerr's guide to understanding your cataract surgery options.

What is a cataract?

A cataract occurs when the natural lens in your eye becomes cloudy, making it harder for light to enter your eye. Cataracts typically occur naturally as you age, and then often cause blurry vision, glare, and rings of light known as halos - sometimes at night and while driving.

How are cataracts treated?

The only way to remove cataracts, is through cataract surgery. Cataract surgery removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with a transparent artificial lens called an intraocular lens (often abbreviated to IOL). This transparent lens has a shape similar to the natural lens. There are different types of intraocular lenses and Dr Kerr will help you select one that is best for your lifestyle.

Are there different types of cataract surgery?

Cataracts can be removed by either conventional cataract surgery (sometimes called phacoemulsification) or laser-assisted cataract surgery. Dr Kerr is highly skilled in both types of cataract surgery and can help you select which one is best for you.

Improving the way you see