Cataracts

Cataracts are one of the most common reasons we refer people to the Eye Clinic. A cataract is a clouding of the lens inside the eye, which causes vision to become blurry or hazy.

The treatment is a surgical procedure performed under local anaesthetic. During surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens implant. Cataract surgery is usually a highly effective procedure that can fully restore clear vision.

As with any surgery, there are risks involved, so it’s important to consider carefully when treatment should be undertaken.

Clinical Prioritisation Scores

To determine who receives cataract surgery each year, optometrists and ophthalmologists use a clinical scoring tool.

We record your vision (the smallest letters you can read on the chart with your best prescription lenses) along with the details of your eye examination and cataract findings.

The final part of the score comes from your “Patient Impact on Life Questionnaire.” This short survey helps to measure how much your blurred vision is affecting your day-to-day life — in other words, how much it limits your ability to do the things you enjoy or need to do.

Once all these details are entered, the tool calculates a total score.

For Auckland DHB, a score of 48 or higher means the referral will be accepted, and you can usually expect an appointment within 16 weeks.
For Northland DHB, the threshold is 54.

In our experience, this system works well. People who are genuinely struggling with their vision due to cataracts are typically seen at the Eye Clinic and go on to have successful cataract surgery.

Cataracts in Both Eyes — Will Both Be Treated?

Cataracts often affect both eyes, although one eye is usually worse. The usual approach is to treat the eye with poorer vision first, then review the results.

For many people, the improvement from the first surgery is so significant that a second operation isn’t necessary — if your vision feels good, there’s often little benefit in operating on the second eye. Each case is assessed individually to ensure the best outcome for you.

If you have any concerns about cataracts or your vision, book an appointment with us. We’ll assess your eyes and discuss the best options for your care.