Cataract Surgery at Ashford Advanced Eye Care

Restoring Clarity and Comfort Through Advanced Lens Replacement

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Cloudy or blurred vision caused by cataracts can make everyday activities difficult, from reading and driving to recognising faces. Cataract surgery offers a safe, proven way to restore clear vision and improve quality of life.

At Ashford Advanced Eye Care, advanced ultramicro-incision techniques and modern intraocular lenses in the hands of a world leader in cataract surgery are used to replace the eye’s cloudy natural lens with a clear, permanent artificial replacement, helping you see more clearly again.

What Is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is a procedure that removes the eye’s cloudy natural lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The natural lens works much like a camera lens, focusing light onto the retina to create clear images. Cataract is a clouding of this natural lens which prevents light from passing through properly, leading to hazy or dim vision.

During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is carefully removed and replaced with a clear, permanent IOL. This new lens restores normal light focus, providing sharper vision and improved colour perception without the maintenance or handling required for contact lenses.

Why Choose Ashford Advanced Eye Care?

When deciding where to have cataract surgery in Adelaide, patients want confidence in both their results and their care. Led by Associate Professor Michael Goggin, an experienced ophthalmic surgeon with decades of surgical expertise, Ashford Advanced Eye Care provides modern, high-quality treatment using advanced technology in a purpose-built environment designed for comfort and precision. Surgeons from around Australia and internationally have been coming to Adelaide to work with and learn from him for decades.

Why patients choose AAEC:

Direct surgeon involvement

Each patient is assessed, treated and followed up by the same senior ophthalmic surgeon, ensuring personalised care at every stage.

Advanced micro-incision techniques

Modern surgical methods reduce discomfort and support faster recovery.

A world leading surgeon with decades of experience

His published results are available to reassure prospective patients and he has developed and teaches techniques that optimise outcome. He is Editor-in-Chief of Australia’s premier scientific ophthalmology journal

Comprehensive eye care

The clinic provides a full range of ophthalmic services, allowing seamless management of cataracts and other eye conditions.

Personalised treatment planning

Each procedure is tailored to individual visual needs and lifestyle.

Central Adelaide location

Conveniently located with on-site parking and easy access for regional and interstate patients.

How Cataract Surgery Works

Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful eye procedures performed worldwide. At Ashford Advanced Eye Care, micro-incision cataract surgery allows the cloudy lens to be removed and replaced through very small openings, often as small as 1.8 mm.

An ultrasonic device is used to break up and remove the cloudy lens, and a folded intraocular lens is inserted in its place. The artificial lens unfolds once inside the eye, positioning itself securely where the natural lens used to be. Stitches are rarely needed, and the incision heals naturally over time. This approach ensures minimal disruption to the eye, faster recovery and excellent visual outcomes.

This is the only operation that can improve on patients’ function from a time even before the onset of the diseases. If the patient required glasses or contact lenses prior to getting the cataract,, the necessity to use them can be reduced or even eliminated after surgery

Types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)

Modern cataract surgery offers several options for intraocular lenses (IOLs), allowing your ophthalmic professional to tailor the procedure to your specific visual needs.

Astigmatism-Correcting Intraocular Lenses

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens is shaped more like an oval than a perfect sphere, causing blurred or distorted vision. Astigmatism-correcting IOLs, also called toric lenses, help correct this irregularity during cataract surgery, reducing the need for glasses or contact lenses afterwards. A/Prof Goggin is an internationally recognised leader, instructing surgeons in their use and has published many scientific papers on the outcome of his world-leading techniques.

Near Vision or Presbyopia-Correcting Intraocular Lenses

As the eye ages, its ability to focus on nearby objects decreases, a condition known as presbyopia. Presbyopia-correcting IOLs are designed to restore both distance and near vision, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for reading glasses. Suitability depends on individual eye health and lifestyle, which is assessed during your cataract consultation.

Who Is Suitable for Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is suitable for people who experience visual difficulties that interfere with daily life. A thorough eye examination determines whether surgery is appropriate and which type of intraocular lens will provide the best outcome.

You may be suitable if you:

Experience cloudy, blurred or dim vision that affects reading, driving or daily tasks
Have been diagnosed with cataracts in one or both eyes
Have healthy eyes and no uncontrolled medical conditions affecting healing
Wish to improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses

Benefits of Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery offers a long-term solution for restoring clear, bright vision. It is a precise, reliable and safe procedure that provides lasting improvements in visual quality.

Key benefits include:

Restores clear, natural vision by removing cloudy lenses
Improves brightness, contrast and colour perception
Reduces dependence on glasses, particularly with customised choice of IOLs
Enhances comfort and quality of life
Uses modern micro-incision techniques for faster recovery

Recovery and Results after Cataract Surgery

Most patients notice improved vision within 24 to 48 hours after cataract surgery, although visual clarity may continue to develop over several days. Full, final recovery takes about 4 weeks. Mild blurriness, dryness or sensitivity to light can occur during the early healing phase but usually resolve quickly.

Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress and ensure the eye is healing as expected. Once both eyes are treated, patients typically experience bright, comfortable and long-lasting vision without the haze caused by cataracts.

How Much Does Cataract Surgery Cost in Adelaide?

At Ashford Advanced Eye Care, cataract surgery is available to both insured and uninsured patients.

These fees include all necessary pre-operative testing, surgery and post-operative follow-up care. Costs vary depending on the chosen intraocular lens and individual eye requirements, with transparent pricing discussed before any procedure.

Your Cataract Surgery Journey

A straightforward process designed for your comfort and optimal outcomes

Comprehensive Assessment

Your journey begins with a thorough eye examination and diagnostic testing. Dr. Goggin will assess your cataract, discuss your lifestyle needs, and recommend the most suitable lens options for your situation.

Consultation Gap: $85-95

Pre-Operative Preparation

Once you decide to proceed, we'll schedule your surgery and provide detailed pre-operative instructions. You'll receive and guidance on what to expect on the day.

Surgery Day

The procedure typically takes 15-20 minutes per eye. You will be given a sedative as well as local anaesthetic for your procedure. Arrange for someone to drive you home afterward.

Recovery and Follow-Up

Most patients notice improved vision within days. You'll use prescribed eye drops and attend follow-up appointments. Dr. Goggin personally oversees your recovery to ensure optimal healing. Many patients are surprised by the significant improvement in vision and request prompt treatment of their second eye.

Comprehensive Assessment

Pre-Operative Preparation

Once you decide to proceed, we'll schedule your surgery and provide detailed pre-operative instructions. You'll receive guidance on what to expect on the day.

Surgery Day

The procedure typically takes 15-20 minutes per eye. You will be given a sedative as well as local anaesthetic for your procedure. Arrange for someone to drive you home afterward.

Recovery and Follow-Up

Meet Associate Professor Michael Goggin

Experienced Cataract Surgeon with Proven Outcomes

Associate Professor Michael Goggin has been performing cataract surgery since 1984, combining decades of surgical experience with meticulous attention to detail and compassionate patient care.

30,000+ Successful Eye Surgeries

Extensive experience in cataract surgery and advanced lens implantation

Published Research and Teaching

Supervises ophthalmology fellows and teaches advanced surgical techniques

Patient-Centered Approach

Personal involvement in every stage of your care for the best possible outcome

Advanced Training and Credentials

Fellow of multiple international surgical colleges with specialised expertise

How to Book an Appointment

Booking an appointment for cataract surgery in Adelaide is simple and convenient. The clinic welcomes new patients and referrals for assessment and treatment of cataract-related vision problems.

To arrange an appointment or referral:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cataract surgery painful?

No, local anaesthetic is used to keep the procedure comfortable and pain-free. Patients may experience mild irritation or dryness for a short time after surgery.

How long does cataract surgery take?

Cataract surgery usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes per eye. Most patients return home the same day and can see more clearly within a few days.

Can cataract surgery correct astigmatism?

Yes, cataract surgery can correct astigmatism using toric intraocular lenses. These specially designed lenses correct for this to improve focus and visual sharpness.

When can I drive after cataract surgery?

Most patients can drive again within a few days once their vision has stabilised. Your ophthalmic professional will confirm when it is safe for you to resume driving.

What is recovery like after cataract surgery?

Recovery is typically quick, with improved vision noticeable within 24 to 48 hours. Complete healing and visual stability usually occur within a few weeks.

What are intraocular lenses?

Intraocular lenses, or IOLs, are clear artificial lenses placed inside the eye to replace the cloudy natural lens removed during cataract surgery. They are permanent and require no maintenance or cleaning.

Ready to Restore Your Clear Vision?

Take the first step toward clearer, brighter vision. Book your consultation with Associate Professor Michael Goggin to discuss your cataract treatment options.