Common Questions About Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed in Singapore. It involves removing a clouded natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore vision clarity. In a country where an ageing population is increasingly affected by cataracts, the procedure is routinely done in both public and private clinics, often as a day surgery.
Yet despite its prevalence, many patients are uncertain about what to expect. Understanding the nature of the procedure, available options, and necessary preparations can significantly reduce anxiety and improve satisfaction.
Key Questions to Discuss Before Cataract Surgery
Before you decide on cataract surgery, it is natural to have questions. Here, we address some of the most asked questions to help you feel more informed and confident about your next steps.
Is Cataract Surgery a Major Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a minimally invasive, routine outpatient procedure boasting a high success rate. Recovery is generally quick, and complications are rare. As an outpatient procedure, no hospital stay is required.
Will Other Eye Problems or Health Conditions Affect My Cataract Surgery?
Yes, pre-existing conditions can affect cataract surgery. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, glaucoma, or macular degeneration require careful consideration, even if well-controlled. It is crucial to disclose your full medical history, including all medications and allergies. A comprehensive preoperative assessment will then allow your surgeon to safely design the most appropriate surgical plan.
What Types of Cataract Surgery Are Available in Your Clinic?
Our cataract clinic utilises several approaches to cataract surgery:
- Phacoemulsification (Phaco): This procedure is one of the established techniques for cataract surgery. It uses ultrasound to soften and remove the cataract.
- Femtosecond-Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS): In this technique, a laser is used to pre-cut the cataract, reducing the amount of ultrasound energy needed during Phaco. It also allows for a more precise opening of the lens capsule, improving the positioning of the intraocular lens.
Will I Be Awake During the Procedure?
Yes, patients are usually awake during cataract surgery. However, sedation is provided to help you stay relaxed and comfortable, and the procedure itself is painless. You might experience mild, temporary discomfort or itching afterwards, but this is manageable with prescribed eye drops.
How Long Will the Surgery Take?
The surgical procedure itself typically takes 10–20 minutes per eye. However, plan to spend a few hours at the facility for preoperative preparation and postoperative monitoring. If both eyes require surgery, they are usually treated at least a week apart.
What Tests Will I Need to Undergo Before Surgery?
If you have any systemic health issues, you may need further clearance from your GP or cardiologist. Preoperative assessments are crucial for customising your treatment plan, and these may include:
- Visual acuity tests: These measure the sharpness of your vision at various distances.
- Slit-lamp examination: This test provides a magnified view of your eye's front structures (cornea, lens, iris) to detect abnormalities.
- Optical biometry: This precisely measures the eye's length and the cornea's curvature to select the correct intraocular lens (IOL) power.
- Pupil dilation: Eye drops are used to widen your pupils, allowing a clearer view of the retina and optic nerve at the back of your eye.
- Intraocular pressure measurement: This test checks the pressure inside your eye, which is important for detecting glaucoma.
- Blood pressure monitoring: A standard check of your blood pressure to ensure it is stable for surgery.
Is Surgery My Only Option?
In the early stages, cataracts may be managed with updated prescriptions or lifestyle changes. However, when vision impairment begins affecting daily activities, surgery becomes the only effective treatment.
What Kind of Lens Do You Recommend for Me?
The recommended IOL depends on your desired post-surgery vision. Discuss your daily needs and expectations openly with your ophthalmologist to find the best fit.
- Monofocal IOLs: These lenses provide stable, predictable vision at a single focal point, typically distance. This means activities like driving and recognising faces will be sharp, but you will likely still need glasses for reading or close-up tasks. Monofocal IOLs are generally the most budget-friendly option and often covered by insurance.
- Multifocal IOLs: Designed with multiple corrective zones, these lenses aim to provide clear vision for both near and far distances, significantly reducing your dependence on glasses for most daily activities. They are ideal if you lead an active lifestyle and value convenience. However, multifocal IOLs come with trade-offs, such as potential halos around lights, a slight loss of contrast, and a higher price.
How Do I Prepare for Cataract Surgery?
Knowing what to expect before cataract surgery is crucial. While the surgery itself is quick, your preparation can significantly influence your recovery, comfort, and the clarity of your postoperative vision.
- Avoid eating or drinking for at least 6 hours before surgery.
- Stop wearing contact lenses several days in advance.
- Refrain from using makeup, perfume, or lotion on the day of surgery.
- Review your medications, especially blood thinners, with your doctor.
- Arrange for a family member or friend to accompany you and drive you home after the procedure.
Are There Any Potential Risks and Complications I Should Be Aware of?
While complications are rare, they are manageable when addressed early. Your cataract surgeon will provide you with comprehensive post-surgery instructions to minimise them. Potential complications include:
- Eye Infection: A rare but serious complication that requires immediate antibiotic treatment to protect vision.
- Swelling (Macular Oedema): Fluid buildup in the macula, the central part of the retina, which can temporarily blur vision and is usually treated with eye drops.
- Retinal Detachment: A serious condition where the retina pulls away from the back of the eye, potentially causing sudden vision loss, and often requiring further surgery. It is more common in people with high myopia.
- Secondary Cataract (Posterior Capsule Opacification): This occurs when the back of the lens capsule becomes cloudy, mimicking a cataract. It can be easily treated with a quick laser procedure.
How Soon Can I Return to Normal Activities?
While cataract surgery is a low-risk procedure, your eye still needs time to heal. Recovery is gradual and varies from person to person, but following post-operative care instructions can help you return to your routine more comfortably and safely.
For work, many patients can return within a day or two, especially if their job is not physically demanding. When it comes to exercise, gentle movement like walking is typically allowed and even encouraged. However, high-impact activities such as running should be avoided for at least one to two weeks.
How Much Does Cataract Surgery Cost? Is It Covered by Insurance?
The cost of cataract surgery can vary widely depending on the type of intraocular lens (IOL) and the surgical treatment you choose. In Singapore, patients can use MediSave to offset part of the cost per eye. Additional private insurance coverage may also apply, depending on your policy and the type of lens chosen.
Can a Cataract Come Back After Surgery?
Once the natural lens with the cataract is removed, it cannot come back. However, some patients develop posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which can cause similar visual symptoms and is easily treated with a quick laser procedure.
Prepare for Cataract Surgery
Being well-informed before cataract surgery empowers you to take an active role in your care, setting realistic expectations and supporting better outcomes. Asking the right questions ensures your treatment plan is perfectly tailored to your vision goals and health profile.
If you have any concerns or would like to explore your cataract treatment options, do not hesitate to book a consultation at our clinic. We are more than happy to answer the questions you need for your cataract surgery.