Cataract Surgery
Regain Clear Vision – Rediscover Life Without Cataracts
Are cataracts clouding your world?
Imagine reading without strain, driving safely at night, and seeing your loved ones clearly again. At the Laser Eye Centre, we help you get your sight back, so you can get your life back.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts are a common eye condition where the natural lens becomes cloudy, causing blurred vision, light sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night. Left untreated, cataracts can eventually lead to vision loss or even blindness.
Signs You May Have Cataracts
If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, it could be time to see a cataract specialist:
- Cloudy or blurry vision, like looking through a foggy window
- Glare and halos around lights
- Poor night vision
- Faded or yellowed colours
- Frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription
- Double vision in one eye
What Causes Cataracts?
Cataracts most often develop as part of the natural aging process, typically affecting those over 60. However, certain factors can cause cataracts to develop earlier or progress more quickly:
- Genetics / Family history
- Eye injuries or past surgeries
- Long-term use of steroids
- UV exposure (sun damage)
- Chronic health conditions like diabetes
How Cataracts Affect Your Life
Cataracts don’t just reduce your vision, they can impact your independence, safety, and quality of life. Many people with untreated cataracts stop driving at night, avoid reading or working on screens, and struggle with everyday tasks.
But the good news? Cataracts are treatable, and vision can be restored with a simple, effective procedure.
Cataract Surgery – Safe, Quick & Life-Changing
The Most Common Eye Surgery Worldwide
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful surgeries available today, with millions of procedures performed annually. It's quick (around 20 minutes per eye), minimally invasive, and doesn’t require a hospital stay.
How It Works
- A small incision is made in the eye
- The cloudy lens is removed using ultrasound
- A clear intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted
- The new lens stays in place permanently
You’ll be awake during the surgery, but a topical anaesthetic ensures you won’t feel any pain.
Your Lens, Your Choice
We offer standard cataract lens surgery and premium lens options to suit your lifestyle and visual needs:
- Monofocal lenses (clear at one distance)
- Multifocal or trifocal lenses (for near and far vision)
- Extended depth-of-focus lenses (reduced need for glasses)
Our experts will help you choose the best lens for your daily life and goals.
After Surgery – What to Expect
Recovery is usually quick and straightforward. Most patients resume normal activities in just a few days.
Post-surgery tips:
- Use prescribed eye drops
- Wear your eye shield at night
- Avoid rubbing your eye or getting water in it
- Refrain from heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 2–4 weeks
- Wear sunglasses outdoors until your eyes adjust
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the healing process?
Full healing typically takes 6–8 weeks.
Is cataract surgery painful?
No. The eye is numbed with anaesthetic drops and there is minimal discomfort afterward.
Will I still need glasses after surgery?
Many patients no longer need glasses for distance vision. If you want to reduce the need for reading glasses, premium lenses may be the right option for you.
Can cataracts come back?
Once removed, cataracts don't return. However, some people develop a cloudy lens capsule months or years later, which can be easily treated with a quick laser procedure (YAG capsulotomy).
When can I drive or travel?
Most patients can drive within 24 hours (with your doctor’s approval) and fly safely after a few days. Always attend your post-op follow-up before resuming normal routines.
Why Choose Us for Cataract Surgery?
At the Laser Eye Centre you’ll benefit from:
- Advanced technology
- Tailored lens options for your lifestyle
- Fast recovery and long-term results
- Compassionate care from consultation to follow-up
Where We’re Located
Whether you live in the Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, or Central & Lower North Island, vision advice is never far away:
Hamilton
New Plymouth
Tauranga
Pukekohe
Taupo
Take the First Step Toward Clear Vision
Don’t let cataracts keep you from enjoying the life you love. Whether it’s reading your favourite book, seeing your loved ones clearly, or feeling confident behind the wheel again, clear sight is just a consultation away.
Book Your Free Cataract Assessment Today
Phone: 0800 733 2020 or book the Vision+ Wellness Check here
Cataract Surgery: How to Prepare, What to Expect & Recovery Tips:
Before Surgery
Practice Using Eye Drops
You’ll need eye drops after surgery. Practice using them now or ask a support person to help during the first few days.
Arrange Transport
You won’t be able to drive home due to blurry vision.
- Bring a support person to drive you.
- Taxis/Ubers are fine only if accompanied.
- Have a backup plan.
- Please arrange that you have someone to stay with you for the night of your surgery.
Wash Your Hair the Night Before
You’ll need to keep your eye dry for a few days.
- You can shower, but avoid getting water in your eyes.
Take Time to Relax
It’s normal to feel a little nervous.
- The procedure is done with eye drop anaesthesia, no injections.
- Let our team know if you’re anxious.
What to Wear & Bring
- Loose, comfy clothes (you’ll wear a gown over them).
- No makeup, perfume, or jewellery above the neck.
- Bring sunglasses, they help with light sensitivity after surgery.
Food & Medication
- Eat a light breakfast (unless told otherwise).
- Take your usual medications and eye drops.
- Avoid large, greasy meals.
On Surgery Day
- Arrive 1 hour early.
- Your eye will be numbed and dilated with drops.
- The procedure takes approx 20 minutes per eye.
- Afterward, you’ll rest for about an hour onsite.
- Expect to be in the surgical centre for approximately 2 hours for one eye surgery and about 3 hours for the two eyes.
- You’ll go home with drops, instructions, and a protective shield
How Cataract Surgery Works
- A tiny incision is made in your cornea.
- The cloudy lens is broken up and removed.
- A new foldable intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted.
- No stitches are usually needed, the eye heals naturally.
After Surgery
Immediately After
- You’ll wear an eye shield and rest at home.
- Keep your head elevated and avoid bending over.
- Take it easy, your eyelids are nature’s bandage.
Eye Drops & Shield
- Use drops exactly as prescribed..
- Wear the shield while sleeping for several nights.
- Sunglasses help with light sensitivity.
Normal Symptoms
- Mild redness.
- Scratchy or gritty feeling.
- Blurred vision that improves over days.
- Light sensitivity, watering.
Activity Guide
First 1–2 Weeks: Avoid
- Heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
- Gardening, dust, swimming, spas.
- Eye makeup.
- Driving (until cleared).
Safe to Do:
- Reading, TV, and screen time as tolerated.
- Resting and protecting your eye.
- Stick to your drop schedule.
Watch for Any Warning Signs
- Severe pain not relieved with paracetamol.
- Sudden vision changes or loss.
- Increased redness or swelling.
- Flashes of light or new floaters.
- Nausea or vomiting.
What Goes Into the Cost of Laser Eye Surgery?
For over 35 years, we’ve helped Kiwis enjoy clearer vision through personalised, expert care.
Our clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art ZEISS laser technology which is used worldwide for its precision, safety, and proven results. But behind the scenes is where the real investment lies.
It’s not just about the laser, for when you choose us, you’re choosing more than technology. You’re choosing comprehensive care, including:
- A team of highly experienced surgeons and clinicians with over 100 years of combined expertise.
- Purpose built; multimillion dollar facilities designed for world-class patient care.
- Over $1 million plus in cutting-edge surgical and diagnostic equipment, keeping us at the forefront of innovation.
- A fully accredited, sterile surgical theatre meeting the highest medical standards.
- Single use, medical grade treatment packs for every patient.
- Ongoing compliance with New Zealand’s strict health and safety regulations.
- Purpose-designed infrastructure to support patient comfort, safety, and outstanding outcomes.
We’re proud to offer a service built on decades of experience, advanced technology, and an unwavering commitment to your safety. For many of our patients, the freedom from glasses or contacts is truly life-changing and priceless.
Finance Options
Q Card interest rates apply upon completion of agreed interest free period.
We also have payment options such as VISA, Mastercard, EFT (bank authorisation required over $3000).
*Normal credit and lending criteria and fees, including a $55 establishment fee and $52 annual fee apply. Prevailing interest rate(currently 25.99% p.a.) applies to any outstanding balance on the expiry of the interest free period.
Credit is provided by Latitude Financial Services Limited.
* Please Note: The directors and shareholders do not have a vested material or financial interest in any of the financial institutions listed above.
Interest-Free Payments
Improve your vision today
We offer a range of affordable finance options to suit all needs. From Gem Visa to Q Mastercard, interest-free packages and long-term financing are available for 6 to 12 months.
Gem Visa Pre-Approval
Lending criteria, fees, and T&Cs apply. See www.gemfinance.co.nz
Q Mastercard Pre-Approval
Lending criteria, fees, and T&Cs apply. See www.qmastercard.co.nz
A well-crafted sentence will go here to convey the core message of the Laser Eye Centre — highlighting what makes the clinic unique, trustworthy, and effective.
A well-crafted sentence will go here to convey the core message of the Laser Eye Centre — highlighting what makes the clinic unique, trustworthy, and effective.
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A well-crafted sentence will go here to convey the core message of the Laser Eye Centre — highlighting what makes the clinic unique, trustworthy, and effective.
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