Our Cataract Process
Your Journey to Clear Vision
Experience the Life-Changing Benefits of Modern Cataract Surgery.
Cataracts are a natural part of ageing, but they don’t have to blur your life.
At iSurgeon, our cataract specialists provide expert diagnosis and safe, effective surgery to restore your clear, bright vision.
Is It Time for Cataract Surgery?
If cataracts interfere with your daily life, even slightly, it’s worth getting a comprehensive eye exam.
At iSurgeon, we’ll assess your vision, discuss your options, and guide you through the next steps carefully and clearly.
Our Surgical Process.

- The procedure takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
- It is done under local anaesthesia.
- Patients are typically discharged the same day to recover comfortably at home.
Pre-Operative Preparation
Before your surgery day, you’ll typically have a pre-operative consultation, which includes:
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Comprehensive Eye Exam: To assess the severity of the cataract and plan the correct intraocular lens (IOL) power.
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Biometry Scan: Measures the shape and size of the eye to determine the best IOL fit.
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Medical Review: Discuss any chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure that could affect surgery.
You’ll also be given antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to start using a few days before the procedure. These help reduce the risk of infection and prepare the eye for surgery.
Results and Vision Outcomes
Most patients notice improved vision within 24–48 hours, with continued improvement over the next few weeks. Depending on the lens used, you may still need reading glasses or glasses for specific tasks.
Follow-Up Visits
You’ll usually have check-ups:
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Day after surgery
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1 week post-op
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4–6 weeks post-op to assess healing and visual clarity
During these visits, the surgeon will monitor your eye pressure, lens position, and healing process.
When to Contact Your Doctor
While complications are rare, contact your clinic immediately if you notice:
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Sudden vision loss
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Persistent pain
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Increasing redness
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Light flashes or floaters
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Discharge or swelling
Private Sector Costs (With Medical Aid)
Most South African medical aids cover standard cataract surgery, including:
- Surgeon and anaesthetist fees
- Hospital and theatre costs
- Standard monofocal IOL
- However, co-payments may apply if:
You choose premium IOLs (multifocal or toric)
- Your procedure is done at a non-DSP (Designated Service Provider) hospital
- Your medical aid plan has limits or sub-schemes for elective procedures
Co-payments can range from R3,000 to R15,000+, depending on your plan.
Private Sector Costs (Without Medical Aid)
In private clinics and hospitals, cataract surgery is readily accessible, but costs vary:
Component | Approximate Cost (ZAR) |
---|---|
Surgeon’s fee | R6,000 – R12,000 |
Anaesthetist fee | R2,000 – R5,000 |
Theatre and facility fee | R8,000 – R15,000 |
Intraocular lens (standard) | R2,000 – R6,000 |
Total (per eye) | R18,000 – R35,000+ |
Additional Cost Considerations
- Pre-operative consultation and scans: R1,000 – R2,500
- Post-operative medication (eye drops, antibiotics): R500 – R1,000
- Follow-up visits: Often included, but confirm with your provider
- Second eye surgery: Usually performed a few weeks later and billed separately