Cataract surgery is suitable for nuclear cataracts when the central lens hardening and yellowing are affecting vision, comfort, or independence.
How nuclear cataracts present
Changes develop slowly in the central core of the lens.
- Gradual shift in glasses prescription, often becoming more short‑sighted
- Increasing difficulty with distance tasks such as driving and television
- Colours, especially blues, appearing dull or yellow‑tinged
- Reduced contrast in low‑light conditions
- Centre of the lens looking brown or amber on examination
When surgery is usually advised
The decision is based on function rather than appearance alone.
- Distance vision no longer adequate for safe driving or work
- Need for frequent prescription changes with limited benefit
- Significant impact on hobbies such as sport, reading, or crafting
- Desire to correct both the cataract and the refractive error together
- Understanding that denser nuclear lenses may make surgery slightly more complex
