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Cataract Eye Surgery
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Cataract Surgery in Singapore: What to Know About Diagnosis, Treatment & Recovery
Cataracts are a common eye condition affecting over 78% of Singaporeans above age 60, where the natural lens gradually becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, glare, and difficulty with daily activities. While age-related vision changes are normal, cataract-related vision impairment can often be managed with safe, medically-approved cataract treatment.
At JL Eye Specialists, our cataract specialists and doctors provide personalised eye cataract treatment and surgical planning tailored to your needs. Using advanced imaging and intraocular lens options, we guide patients through diagnosis, cataract surgery in Singapore, and post-operative care. Consult with our team to learn which cataract treatment approach may be suitable for you.
What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a safe and widely performed procedure in Singapore to restore clear vision. During the surgery, the clouded natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), helping patients see clearly again. Cataracts are a leading cause of visual impairment, particularly in adults aged 60 and above.
Comprehensive Assessment Before Surgery
Before undergoing cataract eye surgery, a thorough assessment is essential to determine the most suitable treatment for each patient. At JL Eye Specialists, our cataract specialists provide:
- Comprehensive Eye Examination: Evaluates overall eye health and vision quality.
- Advanced Imaging: Galilei Tomography measures the corneal shape and anterior chamber structures for precise surgical planning.
- IOL Biometry: IOLMaster 700 offers accurate measurements to select the most appropriate intraocular lens.
- Personalised Visual Assessment: Considers each patient’s daily activities and visual needs to recommend the best lens option.
These assessments form the foundation of cataract care, ensuring patients receive personalised treatment and guidance throughout the surgery process. Patients can also follow our step-by-step guide for preparing for cataract surgery in Singapore to understand each stage clearly.
Symptoms & When to Consider Cataract Surgery
Cataracts usually develop gradually, making early symptoms easy to overlook. Common signs include:
- Cloudy or blurred vision that affects daily tasks
- Colours appearing dull or less vibrant
- Glare or halos around lights, particularly at night
- Difficulty driving at night or in low-light conditions
- Frequent changes in glasses prescriptions
Cataracts can interfere with your quality of life, including reading, using a computer, or recognising faces. If you notice these symptoms, a cataract eye examinattion in Singapore can determine the severity and guide timely treatment.
Early detection is key. Adults over 40 are generally advised to have regular eye exams, as cataracts can progress slowly but significantly impact vision over time. Timely cataract surgery can restore clear vision, improve daily function, and reduce the risk of accidents or complications from poor eyesight.
In Singapore, patients often consider a cataract operation when these changes begin to affect daily tasks such as reading, driving, or recognising faces. Ophthalmologists typically recommend surgery once the condition interferes with daily activities, rather than waiting until it becomes advanced.
Cataract screening typically includes a comprehensive eye examination to detect changes early and provide guidance on timely cataract treatment. Adults are generally encouraged to begin regular eye checks from the age of 40 onwards, as early detection allows for better treatment planning.
Our Doctor
DR. JIMMY LIM
Dr. Jimmy Lim is a top ophthalmologist for cataract eye surgery in Singapore, offering over 20 years of expertise in cataract treatment and management.
Gleneagles Medical Centre
6 Napier Road #07-10,
Singapore 258499
Phone: +65 6258 8966
Fax: +65 6258 8766
Cataract Surgery Techniques in Singapore
At JL Eye Specialists, the most common and widely performed approach for cataract surgery is modern phacoemulsification. This minimally invasive technique uses advanced ultrasound energy to gently break up the clouded natural lens, which is then removed through a tiny corneal incision and replaced with a clear intraocular lens (IOL).
Phacoemulsification is widely recognised as the standard method for cataract eye surgery. The small incision (usually 2.2–2.8 mm) is often self-sealing and does not require stitches, allowing for faster healing and minimal discomfort.
The procedure is performedas a Day Surgery, and many patients notice improved vision shortly after surgery. Most can resume normal daily activities within a few days.
Recovery and Aftercare:
- Most patients experience minimal pain and rapid visual improvement.
- Eye drops and post-operative instructions support healing and reduce the risk of complications.
- Follow-up appointments ensure proper monitoring and optimal outcomes.
Learn more about what to expect after surgery in our cataract surgery recovery guide.
Lens Options for Cataract Surgery in Singapore
After cataract surgery, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to restore clear vision. Different lens types are available to meet various visual needs, depending on your eye condition, lifestyle, and daily activities.
Common lens options include:
- Monofocal Lenses: Provide clear distance vision, suitable for patients who mainly need to see far objects without glasses.
- Toric Lenses: Optimise distance vision with correction of astigmatism. • Multifocal Lenses: Designed to improve near, intermediate, and distance vision, ideal for patients who want greater independence from glasses.
- Multifocal Lenses: Designed to improve near, intermediate, and distance vision, ideal for patients who want greater independence from glasses.
- Trifocal Lenses: Offer sharp vision at all distances, including computer and reading range, for patients with presbyopia.
- Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) Lenses: Expand the range of focus and provide smoother vision transitions, particularly useful for active lifestyles.
Choosing the right IOL is a key step in cataract treatment. Our cataract specialist will guide you through the options and recommend the most suitable lens based on your visual goals and eye health.
Menu of Lens Technologies
Monofocal Lens
(aspheric/non aspheric)
Able to correct Short and Far-Sightedness
Toric Lens
Able to correct both Astigmatism and Short or Far-Sightedness
Multifocal Lens
(distant, near and/or intermediate vision)
Able to correct distance vision and old sightedness. There are also multifocal lens that corrects for distance, old sightedness and intermediate vision (computer vision).
Trifocal Lens
Able to correct for distance vision, intermediate vision (computer vision) and near vision in patients with presbyopia.
Multifocal Toric Lens
For patients who desire to correct most of refractive errors and have astigmatism at the same time.
Extended Depth of Focus
(EDOF) Lens
Designed for patients who desire to correct distance, near and intermediate vision at the same time. Using a different technology from Trifocal lens, the EDOF lens technology works by increasing the range of the focal point and its depth of focus.
Cost & Insurance Coverage in Singapore
The overall cost of cataract surgery depends on factors such as the surgical method, the type of intraocular lens used, and insurance eligibility. As a regulated medical procedure, cataract surgery may be claimed under MediSave, and some insurance plans may also provide coverage. Patients are encouraged to check directly with their provider for details on claimable amounts and coverage limits. For those planning ahead, it is also helpful to review information on cataract surgery and insurance coverage to gain a clearer picture of potential out-of-pocket costs.
JL Eye Specialists is an ophthalmology clinic in Singapore that specialises in general ophthalmology, cornea, refractive (LASIK), and cataract surgery.
To cover the expenses that you may incur, we accept several corporate and international insurance policies. If you have any of the insurance plans at this side, please let us know when you schedule an appointment with us. For more questions, feel free to contact us at +65 6258 8966.
Corporate Insurance
- Alliance Healthcare
- AIA, HSBC, Alliance Medinet, AVIVA, Great Eastern (Extended panel), NTUC Income, Prudential, Tokio Marine, QBE
- Adept
- HSBC, Great Eastern (Extended Panel), NTUC Income, Tokio Marine
- Fullerton Healthcare
- AETNA, AIA, AON
- MHC
- AIA, Singlife PCP, MHC Medical Network, NTUC Income, Great Eastern (Extended panel)
- iXchange
- Cigna, Parkway Shenton, Henner, AIA
- FWD Singapore
- Integrated Health Plans (IHP)
- International SOS
Integrated Shield Plan
- AIA Healthshield Gold Max
- Singlife Shield
- Singlife
- NTUC Income Shield
- Prudential (extended panel)
- HSBC
Medisave (for local patients)
Why Choose JL Eye Specialists for Cataract Surgery in Singapore
Expert Leadership
Dr. Jimmy Lim brings over 20 years of experience providing quality eye care to both local and foreign patients in Singapore. Specializing in cataract and refractive lens procedures, Dr. Lim is recognized for his:
- Extensive surgical expertise with numerous successful procedures
- Professional, honest approach to treatment recommendations
- Patient education focus, ensuring you understand all your options
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs
Comprehensive Care Approach
- Transparent Communication: Clear explanation of all options and costs
- Customized Treatment: Solutions tailored to your specific eye condition and lifestyle
- Advanced Technology: Access to the latest diagnostic and surgical equipment
- Insurance Coverage: We accept multiple corporate and international insurance policies
- Compassionate Support: Personalized care from consultation through recovery
Our patient-focused team provides personalized, compassionate care throughout your entire cataract surgery experience in Singapore. From your initial consultation through your recovery, we’ll answer your questions, address your concerns, and ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way.
Don’t let cataracts rob you of your vision and independence any longer. Contact JL Eye Specialists today to schedule a cataract evaluation and discover which advanced treatment is right for you. Regain your clear sight and get back to enjoying life!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cataract Surgery
How much does cataract surgery cost in Singapore?
The cost varies depending on the surgical method, the type of intraocular lens (IOL) used, and whether the procedure is performed in a public or private hospital or clinic. Patients are encouraged to confirm the exact costs with the clinic and their insurer.
How much Medisave can I use for cataract surgery?
MediSave can typically be used to offset part of the cost of cataract surgery, subject to prevailing withdrawal limits set by the Ministry of Health. Patients should check with the clinic for the claimable amount applicable to their case.
Is cataract surgery covered by Medishield?
MediShield Life provides basic health insurance coverage for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents. Cataract surgery is generally covered under MediShield Life, but the claim amount depends on the Ministry of Health’s guidelines and limits.
What is the best age for cataract surgery?
There is no fixed “best age.” Surgery is usually recommended when cataracts interfere with daily activities such as reading, driving, or recognising faces, regardless of age.
How many days medical leave for cataract surgery?
Recovery differs between individuals. Some patients may return to light activities within a few days, while others may require more time. The length of medical leave is determined by the doctor based on the patient’s healing progress and job requirements.
Is cataract surgery painful?
Local anaesthesia is used during the procedure, so patients generally do not feel pain. Some may experience mild discomfort, but this varies from person to person.
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We understand that each patient comes with their unique concerns. We customize our approach to ensure that we provide each patient with the appropriate treatment to address their needs.