5 Signs It’s Time for Cataract Surgery

Are Your Glasses No Longer Working? 

Cataracts are becoming increasingly common in the UK. Estimates suggest that around 30% of people over the age of 65 who have cataracts that either affect vision in one or both the eyes. 

As the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, vision gradually deteriorates, making everyday activities more difficult. While early-stage cataracts may not cause significant issues, there comes a point when surgery becomes the most effective way to restore clear sight. 

1. Your Vision Has Become Blurry or Cloudy 

One of the earliest and most noticeable symptoms of cataracts is blurred or cloudy vision. You may feel like you’re constantly looking through a frosted window or a film over your eye. Colours may appear dull, and fine details become harder to distinguish. 

If updating your glasses prescription no longer seems to help, and reading, driving, or recognising faces becomes a challenge, it could be time to consider revisiting your optician to understand whether you have a cataract. Removing the clouded lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens can dramatically restore vision clarity. 

2. Night Driving Has Become Difficult 

Many patients report difficulty driving at night as one of the first signs their cataracts are affecting their daily life. Cataracts can cause glare and halos around lights, making headlights and streetlamps appear scattered or overly bright. This can create a dangerous situation, especially on poorly lit roads or during wet weather. 

If you find yourself avoiding night driving or feeling unsafe behind the wheel, it may be time to speak to an OCL Vision consultant. Cataract surgery can significantly improve low-light vision and restore your confidence on the road. 

3. Your Glasses No Longer Seem Effective 

It’s common for people with cataracts to find themselves updating their glasses prescription more frequently, only to realise it no longer makes a significant difference. As cataracts progress, the lens becomes increasingly opaque, and no level of corrective lens can compensate. 

If you’ve reached this point, glasses may no longer be enough to support your vision. Surgery may be the only solution that provides long-term improvement. At OCL Vision, we offer advanced diagnostic tools to assess whether your lens has reached the stage where surgery is appropriate. 

4. You Struggle with Everyday Activities 

When cataracts begin to interfere with day-to-day life, from reading the newspaper to preparing meals, it may be time to explore surgical options. If hobbies like gardening, knitting, or watching television have become frustrating due to poor vision, cataract removal could offer significant benefits. 

You may also find that bright light is increasingly necessary for tasks that previously required none, or that your eyes tire quickly during close work. These functional signs are a clear indicator that cataract surgery may be the best path forward. 

5. You’ve Been Diagnosed with Cataracts and Advised to Consider Surgery 

If an optician or eye specialist has told you that your cataracts are at the stage where surgery is advisable, it's wise to act sooner rather than later. While cataracts don’t usually present a medical emergency, delaying treatment can lead to further complications, such as a hypermature cataract, also known as advanced cataracts, which becomes harder to remove and may increase surgical risks. 

Modern cataract surgery is safe, highly effective, and can be tailored to your lifestyle needs. At our OCL Vision, we offer high quality lens options that may reduce your need for glasses after surgery, including lenses for near, intermediate and distance vision.  

What to Expect from Cataract Surgery 

Cataract surgery is a quick and minimally invasive procedure, usually completed in less than 30 minutes. It is performed under local anaesthetic with mild sedation. The clouded lens is gently removed and replaced with a clear intraocular lens (IOL). 

Recovery is generally smooth, with most patients noticing a significant improvement in vision within a few days. You can expect to return to normal activities within a week, although complete healing may take a few weeks.  

Our team provides detailed guidance before and after the procedure to ensure a comfortable experience and the best possible results. 

Don’t Let a Cataract Diagnosis Hold You Back 

Ageing is inevitable, but living with blurred vision doesn’t have to be. If you’re over 50 and you are starting to notice changes in your eyesight, particularly any of the signs outlined above, it might be time to consider cataract surgery. 

Early intervention can improve your quality of life, restore your independence, and help you get back to enjoying the activities you love. At OCL Vision, we prioritise patient care and clarity, offering comprehensive assessments and honest recommendations. 

Book a Consultation with OCL Vision Today 

If you think you might be ready for cataract surgery, or simply want to learn more about your options, why not book a consultation with our experienced team? We’ll assess your vision, answer your questions, and help you decide whether surgery is the right next step.  

At OCL Vision, we also offer several payment options including through all major UK and international insurers. We also provide Bupa, AXA, Viva and Vitality customers a simple and straightforward journey under the cataract pathway. This make it easier for you to get authorisation, so you can be seen quickly and benefit from a range of bespoke lens choices suited for you.