Cataract surgery is a widely performed safe procedure.

However, with any such a procedure, complications can arise.

Complications can occur at the time of surgery or following surgery and include a break in the lens capsule at the time of surgery, problems with the lens position following surgery, inflammation and a build up of fluid at the macula.

Serious cataract surgery complications such as infection, retinal detachment and haemorrhage are rare. Treatments are available for these complications to help minimise the effect on vision.

A late complication which may occur some months or years after surgery is thickening of the capsule of the original lens which holds the implant in place. This causes a gradual reduction in vision and is easily managed with an out-patient laser procedure.

Before undergoing cataract surgery, the surgeon and his team will discuss the risks and benefits specific to your individual case with you.