Cataract surgery in Darlington

Currently, the only available treatment for cataracts is surgery, which can improve your vision greatly. The procedure, which takes around 15 minutes, involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an intraocular lens, which is artificial and clear. After the procedure, many patients actually see better than they did before they developed cataracts. 

Darlington Cataract surgery: what to expect at Newmedica

Our team focus highly on patient care and will look after you throughout your cataract surgery. 

Pre-surgery: 

Before surgery, we’ll test your current vision and carry out a biometry test that takes measurements of your eye so your consultant can make sure that your replacement lens is the most suitable one for you. Our clinical assistants will do some relevant health checks and explain what’s involved in the procedure. Your consultant will then check your eyes so they can be sure there’s nothing that could affect your surgery, as well as discuss the available lens options, and answer any questions you have.

During surgery: 

The majority of cataract surgeries are carried out under a local anaesthetic, either by putting anaesthetic around the eye or by using eye drops (there won’t be any needles involved). You’ll be awake for the procedure and may be able to see movement, but you won’t feel anything. A tiny incision in the eye will be made in order to remove your cloudy lens and replace it with the artificial lens. We understand this can be a bit unnerving, but our Darlington theatre team will be there to make sure you’re feeling completely comfortable the whole way through. They’ll also talk you through everything they’re doing throughout the procedure and hold you’re hand if you’re nervous. 

Post-surgery: 

After your surgery, we might recommend putting a small plastic shield over your eye to protect it from accidental damage. You’ll need to use eye drops for about three weeks. These are prescribed by your consultant, and we’ll make sure you’re aware of when and how to use them before you go home. You’re able to go home on the same day, but you won’t be able to drive straight away. We’ll call you the next day to check you’re okay, that you’re happy with how to use your eye drops, and that your vision is returning. We’ll also arrange follow-up appointments to make sure your vision is clear, and your recovery is on track. 

Why choose Newmedica for your cataract surgery in Darlington?

At our Darlington eye clinic, we have short waiting times, which means you’ll have your first appointment within a couple of weeks. We also aim to complete cataract treatment within eight weeks of your referral. We know that many patients feel nervous when coming to us for cataract surgery, which is why we’ll give you a warm welcome and answer any questions you have. 

How much does cataract surgery cost in Darlington at Newmedica?

If you’re getting private cataract surgery, this will start from £2,295 per eye for a monofocal lens replacement. There are different specialist lens types available for a range of costs, which we will explain to you clearly. There’s a single fixed price to make everything straightforward, so there aren’t any hidden fees to surprise you. This means you’ll pay one price for your replacement lens, surgery, all pre- and post-operative appointments, and all medication.

If you’re receiving NHS-funded treatment from us, then your treatment costs with Newmedica will be fully covered, with no additional cost to you.

Perks of private cataract surgery

There are a number of reasons why many of our patients choose to go down the private route for surgery. 

When getting cataract surgery, your cloudy lens is replaced with a lens implant. The replacement lens you choose will determine how well you see without your glasses after your treatment. The standard replacement used on the NHS is called a monofocal lens, which improves your vision for a particular distance (like far away or up close). One perk of private treatment is that you can still decide to have a monofocal lens, but you’ll also have the option to choose a different type of lens, which could reduce your dependency on glasses (at an additional cost). This includes: 

• A multifocal lens option: for good distance, up-close and intermediate vision. 

• An extended focus lens option: this provides a continuous focus over a number of distances. 

You can get the right corrective lens incorporated into any of these specialist lenses if you have astigmatism (when the cornea at the front of the eye is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football). This type of corrective lens is called a toric, which is a word you might have come across before if you wear contact lenses.

Another perk is that you may not have to wait as long for cataract surgery if you get it done privately. This is because the NHS have thresholds, usually linked to impact on vision, to qualify for NHS cataract treatment. You won’t necessarily have to meet the local NHS guidelines if you get private treatment, and you can have the surgery when you feel like your vision is affecting your lifestyle.

Can I get cataract surgery through the NHS?

You’ll be entitled to receive NHS-funded treatment with us at our Darlington eye clinic if you usually (and lawfully) live in England, which means you’re known as ‘ordinarily resident’. 

So you can make the best decisions for your circumstances, the NHS gives you a choice of where you’d like to receive your NHS treatment. To help provide our patients with specialist treatment for a range of eye conditions, we work in partnership with the NHS. Newmedica are providers of NHS-funded services across England, such as NHS IBCs, and NHS Trusts and Foundation Trusts. If you need cataract treatment or help with another eye condition, we’re here to give you the quality care you deserve.