The Cataract Program

While cataract removal is one of the safest, most effective, and common surgical procedures, clinical expertise is the key to achieving successful outcomes. The success of the Cataract Program at Southlake relies on very experienced Royal College-certified ophthalmic surgeons, and a highly-trained team of anaesthesiologists, nurses, and supports staff. These professionals are dedicated to fulfilling Southlake’s vision of delivering shockingly excellent service by utilizing the most advanced technology to achieve the best possible outcomes, and providing the highest level of personalized care for our patients.

What is a Cataract?
Cataract Surgery
How to Schedule an Appointment
Hours of Operation
Map

Assisted Transportation
Parking
Drop-off Zone

Brochure & Referral Form
What People are Saying
Contact Us
Consent Statement
Useful Links

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the lens inside the eye which, over time, progresses to the stage where vision becomes blurred. Cataracts are not uncommon and most cataracts are related to ageing. According to research by the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, about 50% of people between 55 and 64 years of age, and 85% of people over 75 years of age, will develop cataracts in the next 10 years.

Common symptoms of a cataract are:

• Clouded or blurry vision
• Faded appearance of colours
• Glare: headlights, lamps, or sunlight may appear too bright
  (a halo may appear around lights)
• Poor night vision
• Double vision or multiple images in one eye
• Frequent prescription changes in your eyeglasses or contact lenses.

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Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is generally recommended when a cataract reduces vision to the point that a person can no longer read or drive.

At the Eye Institute at Southlake, the latest diagnostic equipment and techniques are used to replace the clouded lens with a new corrective lens.

Patients are provided with a range of advanced Intraocular lenses to choose from—some of which reduce the patient’s need to wear glasses following surgery. The procedure is performed with minimum discomfort and patients return home the same day.

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How to Schedule an Appointment

Family Physicians and Optometrists:
To refer a patient, please complete a referral form and fax it to 905-954-3886

Hours of Operation

Map

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Assisted Transportation

Since you will not be able to drive home following your cataract surgery, you will need to ask a family member or friend to accompany you to the procedure and assist you in getting back home. Should a family member or friend not be available to assist you on the day of your surgery, you may wish to contact Community Home Assistance To Seniors (CHATS) to inquire whether you are eligible to receive transportation assistance through their Home at Last Program.

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Parking

Limited parking is available behind the Medical Arts Building, 581 Davis Drive, with a Pay and Display parking system. Patients are required to pay at one of the automated machines located in the parking lot and display their ticket on the dash of their vehicle. Parking is also available in the Parking Garage, located on the corner of Davis Drive and Prospect Street (directly across the street from the Medical Arts Building). Patients are encouraged to park on Level 3 and take the Skywalk over Davis Drive to access the Medical Arts Building. For more information on parking and our rates, please click here.

Drop Off Zone

The drop-off and pick-up zone is located at the back entrance of the Medical Arts Building. A seating area is located just inside the building's back entrance.

Brochure & Referral Form

To download the Eye Institute Referral Form, please click here. Physicians looking to order additional brochures for their office can do so by contacting 905-895-4521, ext. 2951.

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What People are Saying

At Southlake, we are exceptionally proud of the Cataract Program. In an infection controlled environment, professionals treat our cataract patients using state-of-the-art technology.

I couldn't help but think back to when cataract surgery was done using a general anaesthetic and you were required to stay in the hospital for up to a week. Thanks to the nursing staff for the support and reassurance they gave me, the surgeon for his high level of skill, and Southlake for providing the ultimate technology for cataract removal.
—Dr. Jim Gordon,
Stouffville Resident

Thank you to the doctors and staff for the professionalism, compassion, and kindness they have shown.  The service was excellent, and the procedure greatly improved my quality of life.  I can now drive and no longer need to wear glasses.
- Newmarket Resident

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Contact Us

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Consent Statement

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Useful Links

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For information on resources available to you during your hospital visit or stay (for example: parking, what to bring, discharge times and other helpful information) please click on Patients and Visitors.