North Wales Eye Specialist Centre

18/01/2026

A cataract occurs when the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred or dim vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataracts usually develop with age, but can also result from diabetes, eye injuries, prolonged steroid use, or hereditary factors. As the clouding worsens, daily activities like reading or driving may become challenging.
The most effective treatment is cataract surgery, one of the safest and most commonly performed eye procedures. During the surgery, the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure usually takes 15–20 minutes under local anesthesia, and most patients notice improved vision within a few days.
There are several lens options available:
1. Monofocal IOLs
These provide clear vision at one set distance—usually far. Glasses may still be needed for reading or computer work. They are the most common and cost-effective option.
2. Multifocal IOLs
These lenses offer vision at multiple distances (near, intermediate, and far), reducing the need for glasses. Some people may notice halos or glare at night.
3. Toric IOLs
Designed for patients with astigmatism, toric lenses correct the uneven shape of the cornea and improve overall clarity.
4. Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs
These provide a continuous range of vision, especially good for intermediate tasks like computer use, with fewer visual disturbances.
Choosing the right lens depends on lifestyle, eye health, and visual needs. Your eye specialist can help determine the best option for optimal results.
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Private Eye Specialist within Abergele Hospital, have the best eye care for Cataract, Diabetic Retinopathy, Glaucoma and Paediatrics

14/01/2026

Laser for Eyes:
• Posterior Capsular opacification (PCO):
o After cataract surgery, some patients develop a cloudy membrane behind the artificial lens that was implanted during surgery. This is known as posterior capsule opacification (PCO), and it can cause blurry vision, similar to how a cataract did.
o The laser is used to make a small hole in the cloudy membrane, restoring clear vision without needing another surgery. The procedure is quick, painless, and often done in a doctor's office.
o How it works: The laser is focused on the cloudy capsule, and it makes a precise, tiny hole that clears the blockage, allowing light to pass through the lens and reach the retina.

The treatment for PCO is a quick and painless laser procedure called YAG capsulotomy. During this procedure, the eye doctor uses a special laser to make a small opening in the cloudy membrane, allowing light to pass through clearly again. It usually takes only a few minutes, does not involve surgery or stitches, and vision often improves within hours to days. Most people can return to normal activities the same day.

If you experience visual symptoms please contact your eye doctor.Early interventions preserves sight and improves quality of vision.
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Private Eye Specialist within Abergele Hospital, have the best eye care for Cataract, Diabetic Retinopathy, Glaucoma and Paediatrics

29/09/2025

NWESC Opens New Bangor Unit

The North Wales Eye Specialist Centre (NWESC) proudly opened its new Bangor unit on 26th September 2025, inaugurated by Janet Finch-Saunders MS, Member of the Senedd for Aberconwy.

Building on the success of its Abergele base, the Bangor centre brings specialist eye care closer to patients in Gwynedd, Anglesey and surrounding areas. The unit offers outpatient consultations, advanced diagnostics including OCT scans and visual fields, as well as lasers, minor procedures, and pre- and post-operative assessments.

With a dedicated team of consultants, nurses and support staff, NWESC Bangor reflects our mission to reduce waiting times, minimise unnecessary travel, and deliver world-class ophthalmic care within the community.

09/12/2024