St George’s Eye Care offers innovative new cataract lens

St George’s Eye Care is one of the first eye clinics in New Zealand to offer its cataract patients access to a new lens implant that delivers an extended range of vision.

The new Vivity intraocular lens (IOL) by Alcon incorporates innovative design features to improve near and intermediate vision, and reduce side effects of standard lenses.

After cataract surgery, most patients need reading glasses to help with near vision tasks, and many choose glasses with progressive lenses – allowing them to see close up and distant objects without having to change glasses.

Patients who don’t want to rely on glasses can choose multifocal intraocular lenses (IOL), but until now many have chosen not to because of side-effects of glare and haloes, which can be troublesome for night driving.

“Patients come to us with cataracts causing difficulty with driving due to glare from oncoming headlights, so they are often put off by the idea that their new lens will give rise to the same symptoms,” says Dr Oliver Comyn of St George’s Eye Care.

“The great feature of the new Vivity IOL is that it significantly reduces the occurrence of troublesome glare and halo side effects, and we hope more patients will be interested in this option for their cataract surgery,” he says.

Dr Comyn and fellow St George’s Eye Care ophthalmologist Dr Paul Baddeley have both used the new Vivity lens on patients, with excellent results.

“Implantation of the Vivity lens is no different from the standard procedure,” says Dr Baddeley. “If you are interested we advise you to see your optometrist first, who can make a referral for a consultation with Dr Comyn or myself.”

Latest news

Da vinic robot
A New Era of Surgical Innovation at St George’s

St George’s Hospital has entered an exciting new chapter in surgical innovation with the arrival of the Da Vinci Xi General Surgical Robot, the only one of its kind in the South Island. This advanced technology supports robotic-assisted surgery across gynaecology, colorectal, general, thoracic and urology specialties, expanding access to minimally invasive procedures for patients in Canterbury and beyond.

December 12, 2025
A New Era of Surgical Innovation at St George’s
Eye care
Celebrating a decade of visionary care: St George’s Eye Care marks 10 years in style

Christchurch, Friday 3 October 2025: More than 120 guests gathered to mark a significant milestone as St George’s Eye Care celebrated its 10-year anniversary. The specialist private ophthalmic practice, based within St George’s Hospital, has become a cornerstone of expert cataract and ophthalmic treatment in Christchurch and across the South Island.

December 12, 2025
Celebrating a decade of visionary care: St George’s Eye Care marks 10 years in style
Victoria
Caring for people, leading with heart

Born and raised in Canterbury, Victoria Leov began her career here as a nurse after completing her studies at Ara. Starting her clinical career in General Practice and Oncology gave her a strong foundation in patient care and a deep appreciation for the difference that skilled, compassionate teams make every day.

December 12, 2025
Caring for people, leading with heart
Care
Patient care at St George’s: “More like a hotel than a hospital”

Every day, patients walk through St George’s doors seeking care, comfort and reassurance and the feedback they share continues to reflect the warmth and professionalism they experience from our teams.

December 12, 2025
Patient care at St George’s: “More like a hotel than a hospital”
Paul
Innovative genetic test for glaucoma now available

St George’s Eye Care is now offering a cutting-edge genetic test to assess glaucoma risk, thanks to Clinical Director and Consultant Ophthalmologist Dr Paul Baddeley, one of the first South Island providers to support this advancement.

June 13, 2025
Innovative genetic test for glaucoma now available
Dave prize 6
St George’s Hospital Proudly Wins McFedries Trophy

We’re proud to share that St George’s Hospital has been awarded the McFedries Trophy at the 2025 Christchurch Beautifying Association Awards, recognising the entire hospital site for its outstanding gardens and beautifully maintained green spaces.

June 13, 2025
St George’s Hospital Proudly Wins McFedries Trophy