Cataract Surgery Melbourne
Expert cataract removal with premium lens implant options — performed by Dr Ross MacIntyre MD FRANZCO at Northpark Private Hospital, Bundoora
What Is a Cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that develops as proteins break down with age. The lens, which sits behind the iris and pupil, is responsible for focusing light onto the retina. As it becomes progressively opaque, vision gradually deteriorates. Cataracts are extremely common — almost everyone will develop them to some degree over a lifetime.
Cataracts typically develop slowly over many years, though they can progress more quickly in some individuals. The good news is that modern cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective surgical procedures performed today.
Symptoms of Cataract
- Blurry, cloudy, or foggy vision
- Glare and halos around lights, especially at night
- Difficulty driving at night
- Fading or yellowing of colours
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
- Double vision in one eye
- Difficulty reading despite adequate light
- Sensitivity to bright light or glare
Quick Facts
Day Surgery
No overnight hospital stay required
10–20 Minutes
Typical duration per eye
Days
Vision typically improves within days of surgery
Topical
Eye drop anaesthesia with light sedation — no general anaesthetic
The Surgical Process
Modern cataract surgery uses a technique called phacoemulsification. A tiny incision (less than 2.4mm) is made at the edge of the cornea. An ultrasound probe is then used to gently break up the cloudy lens into small fragments, which are removed by suction. A clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is then folded and inserted through the same small incision, where it unfolds into position. No stitches are typically required.
The procedure is performed under topical anaesthesia (eye drops) with light intravenous sedation, so patients remain comfortable throughout. It is performed as day surgery at Northpark Private Hospital in Bundoora — patients go home the same day.
Most patients notice a significant improvement in vision within the first day or two. Final visual results are typically achieved within 4–6 weeks as the eye settles fully.
Lens Implant Options
One of the most important decisions in cataract surgery is the choice of intraocular lens (IOL). Dr MacIntyre will discuss the options at your pre-operative consultation and recommend the most appropriate lens based on your eyes and visual goals.
Types of Intraocular Lenses
Monofocal IOL
The standard lens implant, designed to focus at one distance — typically distance vision. Most patients will still require reading glasses for near tasks. Covered by Medicare and private health insurance.
Toric IOL
A premium monofocal lens that also corrects astigmatism. Ideal for patients with significant corneal astigmatism who want clear distance vision without glasses. An additional out-of-pocket cost applies.
Multifocal IOL
Designed to provide vision at multiple distances — distance, intermediate, and near — reducing or eliminating the need for glasses altogether. Best suited to patients with healthy eyes who have realistic expectations. A premium lens with additional cost.
EDOF IOL
Extended Depth of Focus lenses provide a continuous range of vision from distance to intermediate — excellent for computer use and driving. Generally fewer halos and glare than multifocal lenses. A premium lens with additional cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral?
Yes. A referral from your GP or optometrist is required to see Dr MacIntyre. Your referring doctor can fax a referral to Northern Eye Consultants on (03) 9466 8833.
Will I need to have both eyes done?
If both eyes have cataracts, surgery is usually performed on each eye separately, a few weeks apart. This allows the first eye to heal and your vision to stabilise before the second procedure.
Is cataract surgery covered by Medicare?
Yes, cataract surgery attracts a Medicare rebate. If you have private health insurance with hospital cover, the hospital and anaesthetist fees are also largely covered. Premium IOLs (toric, multifocal, EDOF) attract an additional out-of-pocket cost. Dr MacIntyre’s rooms can provide a full fee estimate at your pre-operative consultation.
How long is the recovery?
Most patients notice improved vision within 1–2 days. You will use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops for several weeks. Avoid rubbing the eye and strenuous activity for the first week. You can generally return to light activities including reading and television the day after surgery.
Where is the surgery performed?
Cataract surgery is performed at Northpark Private Hospital, Suite 5, 135 Plenty Road, Bundoora VIC 3083 — a fully accredited day surgery facility in Melbourne’s north.
Ready to Book a Consultation?
Contact Dr Ross MacIntyre’s rooms in Bundoora to arrange a cataract assessment. A GP or optometrist referral is required.