Cataract Surgery Singapore
Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed and successful surgeries in medicine, with a high rate of patient satisfaction. Complications are rare, and most issues that do arise can be effectively managed. Surgery offers several significant benefits, many of which can greatly enhance your quality of life. It is the only way to remove cataracts and restore your vision. During cataract surgery, the eye specialist (ophthalmologist) removes your cloudy natural lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The IOL will stay in your eye permanently. There are many different options for IOLs that your provider can discuss with you.
The primary benefit of cataract surgery is improved vision. It can restore vividness of colors, which may have seemed yellowed due to cataract. Once the cataract is removed and replaced with an artificial lens, the improvement in vision is generally permanent. Unlike cataracts, which worsen over time, the new lens does not deteriorate. With clearer vision, it makes your daily activities like reading, using the computer and driving more enjoyable. It also reduces the risk of falls and accidents.
The recovery time for cataract surgery is relatively short. Most people notice an improvement in their vision within a few days, and many can resume normal activities within a week or so.
Overall, cataract surgery can significantly enhance your visual acuity and overall quality of life. If you’re considering the procedure or have any concerns, discussing them with our eye doctor will help you understand how cataract surgery can specifically benefit you.
Causes and Risk Factors of Cataract
Cataracts develop when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurry vision and, if untreated, eventual vision loss. Common causes include aging, prolonged exposure to UV rays, and eye injuries. Risk factors include diabetes, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a family history of cataracts.
Types of Cataracts
- Nuclear Cataract: This type forms in the central (nuclear) part of the lens and is often associated with aging. It can cause nearsightedness and a gradual yellowing or browning of vision.
- Cortical Cataract: Affects the lens cortex, characterized by white, wedge-like opacities that start at the lens edge and work their way to the center. It can cause glare and loss of contrast.
- Posterior Subcapsular Cataract: Develops at the back of the lens and progresses quickly. It often affects reading vision and causes glare or halos around lights.
- Congenital Cataract: Present at birth or develops during childhood, often due to genetic factors, infections during pregnancy, or metabolic disorders.
Signs/Symptoms of Cataract:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Seeing “halos” around lights
- Frequent changes in prescription glasses
- Fading or yellowing of colors
Main types of Cataract Surgery:
We offer the latest technique of cataract removal, which is phacoemulsification of the cataract. This is followed by implantation of an intraocular lens.
What to Expect During and After Your Cataract Surgery?
- During Surgery: The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes under regional anesthesia. Patients remain awake but will not feel pain.
- After Surgery: Mild discomfort, itching, or sensitivity to light is common. Vision improves within a few days, with complete recovery in 4-6 weeks. Follow-up appointments ensure proper healing.
Cataract Surgery Cost In Singapore
The cost of surgery will depend on the density of the cataract, the type of anesthesia used (a small minority of patients prefer to have the operation done under general anaesthesia , the preferred type of intraocular lens, etc). Please feel free to get in touch with us for a better understanding of your condition and the cost involved.
Get in touch with us
Connect with our experienced specialist by dropping us an enquiry below or call us at: +65 6735 6066
Contact Number
Email Address
Address
3 Mount Elizabeth #06-04, Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, Singapore 228510
