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Advice please - surgery needed for cataract treatment

NAS89141

Hi all,

We have just found out that my brother who is in his 30s, is non-speaking and receives 2-1 care has cataracts. The news is distressing not least because of our inability to properly communicate to him why is isn't able to see. 

It looks like the only treatment is eye surgery which obviously requires the patient to remain still. 

I would be so grateful for any advice - other treatments, other people who have experienced this, experiences of surgery or anaesthesia?

Anything would be appreciated, thank you. 

  • I have also had a cataract in one eye operated on. The worst bit was getting used to the bright light. In my case the surgeon actually commended me on how still I stayed during the operation but I accept everyone is different.

    My only slight concern is your brother’s age. When I was initially referred in my early 50s I was advised by the private surgeon (but being paid for by NHS) that he would operate but that apparently the risks would be higher because I was as young as I was. I therefore decided against going ahead and only went ahead several years later by which time I could barely read the largest line on the eye chart with my bad eye.

    Also if your brother has cataracts in both eyes which need operating on normally they will only do them one eye at a time.

  • in reply to battybats

    Thank you so much! So pleased to hear your surgery went well - it's very comforting to hear and I really appreciate you taking the time to respond. 

  • Obviously as I'm on here I'm someone who finds it easier to communicate than your brother does. I have had eye surgery though, and I was only little at the time, so my level of understanding certainly wasn't the same as it is now. To be honest, the worst part was being away from home in an unfamiliar place with bright lights and weird smells!

    My operation was more involved than cataract surgery is, and was done under general anaesthetic. However, a general anaesthetic can also be provided for cataract surgery under some circumstances, and even additional sedation with the local anaesthetic might help. It may also be possible for him to just have one eye done at a time and reduce the amount of time he has to lie still for. You know your brother better than I do so you'll have a better idea of which option is best for him.