Can cataracts come back after an operation?
Cataracts cannot grow back, but usually optical correction is still required after treatment. However, occasionally the membrane-bag in the eye that used to hold the cataract clouds over, mimicking the effects of the cataract. This is called ‘posterior capsule opacification’ and is quite simple to fix with a procedure known as ‘YAG-laser’.
Please contact us if you have any other questions you would like answered, we would be happy to help!
What age should a child have their first eye test?
We would advise that all children have a full sight test when they start school, or earlier if any concerns arise.
The NHS recommends that all children should have vision screening, which will identify some eye problems, during their first year at school. While vision screening is very important, it is not a full sight test so we advise that this is complemented by a full eye examination carried out by an optometrist to ensure no problems are missed.
See Children’s Eye Examinations for more details.
Can I still wear contact lenses if I need reading glasses?
Yes – multifocal or monovision contact lenses allow for distance and near correction at the same time, without the need for glasses. Alternatively, you can wear reading glasses over contact lenses if you prefer.
We will discuss which will be suitable for your particular needs, and can provide free trials so you can select the best option for you.
See Contact Lenses for more details.
Can wearing glasses harm my eyes or make my eye sight worse?
No, not in adulthood. Wearing the wrong prescription can lead to blurred vision, eye strain and headaches but will not cause permanent harm.
However, as most of our vision develops up to the age of 8 (the ‘critical period’), if a child who needs glasses does not wear them this can impact on their eye sight for life.
What is the difference between a dispensing optician, an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?
- A dispensing optician is qualified to advise on spectacles based on a prescription supplied by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
- An optometrist (historically called an ophthalmic optician) has a degree in optometry and has passed their pre-registration period.
- They are able to perform sight tests to measure a patient’s prescription, advise on spectacles and contact lenses based on a valid prescription, as well as being able to assess and monitor eye health.
- An ophthalmologist is a doctor who has specialised in ophthalmology in order to perform eye surgery.
