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Cataract Surgery
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Cataract Surgery in Singapore | Expert Cataract Treatment
Cataracts affect over 78% of Singaporeans over the age of 60, making them extremely prevalent across the nation. As the population continues to age rapidly, more and more individuals will grapple with this vision-impairing condition. The good news? Modern cataract surgery provides a safe and proven way to remove cataracts and restore clear sight.
When symptoms like cloudy vision, difficulty driving at night, and problems reading small print arise, it becomes crucial to act quickly. Catching cataracts early and opting for timely surgery before significant vision loss sets in can improve outcomes significantly. Choosing an experienced surgeon utilizing current technology further optimizes the procedure and aftercare.
What is a Cataract?
Cataracts refer to the progressive clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which focuses incoming light onto the retina to enable clear sight. As cataracts develop, the lens grows increasingly opaque and obstructed, preventing the sharp transmission of images. The result? Gradual vision deterioration is possible if left untreated.
Causes and Symptoms of Cataracts
While cataracts typically form slowly over many years, several factors can contribute to or hasten their onset:
- Aging: Age-related changes to lens proteins remain the most common cause of cataracts. Around 94% of people aged 75 and older develop cataracts.
- UV Exposure: Cumulative lifetime exposure to ultraviolet light places individuals at higher risk.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, eye injuries, and more influence susceptibility.
Early cataract symptoms include needing to change glasses prescriptions frequently, blurred vision, faded colour perception, glare, and halos around lights at night. Such visual interference worsens progressively, eventually impacting everyday tasks like reading, driving, recognizing faces, and watching TV.
Fortunately, modern cataract operations in Singapore offer a definitive solution to remove the clouded lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens. Together with prescription eye drops post-surgery, vision can be restored once more.
Why Choose an Experienced Eye Specialist Like Dr. Jimmy Lim?
Cataracts and surgery may sound straightforward. Remove the clouded lens and insert a replacement. However, experience and surgical skill remain paramount to achieving optimal visual outcomes.
Dr. Jimmy Lim, top opthalmologist based in Singapore providing quality eye care to both local and foreign patients for over 20 years. Focuses on cataract and refractive lens procedures, having performed a lot of successful surgeries. Known for his professionalism, honesty, and patience in explaining options, he creates personalized treatment plans for each cataract patient’s unique needs and lifestyle goals.
The team at JL Eye Specialists adopts a holistic, transparent approach; they educate patients on selecting the most suitable type of cataract surgery and intraocular lens type based on their eye condition, occupation needs, and preferences. Their comprehensive facility houses the industry’s current examination, measurement, and imaging equipment, like the Galilei G4 and IOLMaster 700. Such technology allows high-accuracy mapping of the eye’s specific anatomical characteristics, which guides surgical decisions.
To cover the expenses that you may incur, we accept several corporate and international insurance policies. If you have any of the insurance plans below, please let us know when you schedule an appointment with us. For more questions, feel free to contact us at +65 6258 8966 or visit us 6 Napier Rd, #07-10 Gleneagles Medical Centre, Singapore 258499.
Ready to regain clear vision?
Two Main Types of Cataract Surgery/Operations
Phacoemulsification utilizes high-frequency ultrasound waves to break up the cloudy lens before suctioning out the fragments through a tiny incision. The surgeon then inserts the artificial replacement lens.
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery harnesses laser energy in an accurately targeted manner. First, the patient’s head stabilizes within the laser apparatus. An image-mapping system photographs microscopic views of the front and back of the cornea.
The femtosecond laser then creates a perfectly sized, shaped, and positioned incision based on the patient’s specific eye anatomy. It also softens and segments the lens for easier removal. Finally, ultrasound breaks up and vacuums any remaining lens fragments before IOL insertion.
Phacoemulsification Vs. Femtosecond Laser
While both modern surgical approaches are great options, the femtosecond laser’s imaging capabilities and precision can improve outcomes for more complex cataract cases, like severe astigmatism. Patients with such needs would benefit most from laser cataract surgery. The technique also reduces inflammation and speeds up visual recovery.
However, the vast majority of cataract patients still undergo traditional phacoemulsification with great success. Ultrasound technology and techniques have improved vastly over decades of refinement. For appropriate candidates, it remains a gold standard.
Want to learn more about the types of cataract surgery? You can read our article about it or watch this video:
In the end, the choice of procedures still depends on the patient’s specific conditions and goals. After a comprehensive eye exam, the surgeon will suggest the best approach.
Lens Technology: Correcting Vision After Cataract Surgery
After the removal of cataracts, intraocular lens (IOL) implantation restores focusing power to the eye. Cataract lenses now come in advanced designs to treat pre-existing vision conditions simultaneously, reducing future reliance on glasses or contacts.
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.
These are what lens technologies address:
Any discomfort or visual issues you experienced prior to cataract surgery—nearsightedness, farsightedness, presbyopia, astigmatism—an IOL can eliminate. IOL power calculations derive from exact preoperative eye measurements.
During the consultation, Dr. Lim will discuss your lifestyle needs and suggest an appropriate artificial lens type for cataracts. There are no right or wrong options—just clarity for your daily life.
During Cataract Eye Operation: Step-By-Step Process
On surgery day, specialized nurses will escort you into the procedure room and position you comfortably before anesthesia takes effect. The entire surgery takes around 15 minutes, with vision blacked out temporarily. Here is what you can expect:
- Sterile surgical drapes position around the eye area.
- Dr. Lim makes a tiny incision into the cornea’s surface where the new lens will be inserted.
- He then utilizes a specialized ultrasound probe in the eye to break apart the cloudy natural lens into tiny fragments.
- Tiny vacuum tubes remove the microscopic pieces safely.
- After fully clearing residual lens matter, Dr. Lim implants the artificial replacement intraocular lens in the vacant space.
- He carefully repositions the lens and incision site using microscopic instruments. Keyhole stitches may be placed.
- Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eyedrops are deployed to prevent infection and speed healing.
Finally, a patch is gently placed over the eye to shield it after surgery. Patients then recover under observation before heading home to start the cataract operation restoration process.
While momentarily unsettling, remember that cataract surgery focuses only on a small portion of the eye—the natural lens—without impacting the precious retina or optic nerve. The latest ultrasound and femtosecond laser technologies afford immense surgical control over incisions and lens fragmentation, making cataract removal a safe, proven effective, and common outpatient procedure.
Do you want to see clearly again without bothersome cataract symptoms? Book your cataract eye operation evaluation today!
Pre-Surgery: What to Expect Before Your Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery does not require extensive pre-procedure preparation. However, understanding what to expect at each step often eases patient nerves. Here is a general timeline:
- Initial Consultation: A comprehensive exam determines if cataracts require surgery. The needed imagery and measurements will also be obtained to guide later lens calculations.
- Surgery Scheduling Call: The coordinator contacts you to select surgery date and time and reviews care instructions.
- Pre-Op Exam: Final scans and tests 1-2 weeks before surgery ensure proper IOL selection and fit. Review medication restrictions.
- Night Before Surgery: Begin prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eyedrops. Limit food or drinks as instructed.
- Morning of Surgery: Arrive on time. Staff will check you in, answer last-minute questions, and prepare you before entering OR.
Do you need cataract surgery? Here’s how to know if you need one.
Compassionate Care from Start to Finish
Our patient-focused team provides personalized, compassionate care throughout your entire cataract surgery experience in Atlanta. 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!
Galilei G4
The Galilei G4 Lens Professional combines Placido disc–based topography, Scheimpflug tomography, and optical biometry all in one unit. This combination allows the device to provide complete data for comprehensive screening for cataract or refractive surgery such as LASIK, PRK, ASA, etc. all in one measurement session.
The Galilei G4 topography function accurately measures the anterior curvature of the cornea where it precisely detects anterior surface irregularities and tear film quality.
The Galilei G4 tomography function precisely measures pachymetry and elevation data with 3D anterior chamber analysis. The ray-traced posterior corneal surface data detects any protrusion or asymmetry in early stages of corneal diseases.
IOLMaster 700
The IOLMaster 700 is the first swept-source OCT based biometer that enables OCT imaging and visualization of the entire length of the eyeball. It is complete with a set of biometric parameters for the latest IOL power calculation formulas. The ZEISS IOLMaster 700 measures all biometric parameters for the latest IOL power calculation formulas such as the fully integrated Barrett formulas. The highly optimized scans are completed very swiftly that is suitable for patients who have difficulty controlling their gaze.
Accurate measurement of the eyeball axial length is crucial for precise intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation. Although, repetitive measurements can increase accuracy for the calculation, a single precise scan that has the accuracy of a scan performed a few times will be preferred. The IOLMaster 700 at our clinic is capable of doing this.
Cataract Surgery FAQs
1. I had LASIK years ago. How will this eye surgery interact with cataract treatment?
Cataract eye surgery remains just as safe and effective for LASIK patients. However, your post-cataract prescription and lens power needs may differ slightly since LASIK surgery previously altered corneal focusing. Customized measurements during consultation address this.
2. Is cataract eye operation possible on both eyes simultaneously?
Yes, bilateral same-day cataract surgery offers benefits like a one-year recovery period and reduced costs. However, the procedures are often split between two rooms and teams to avoid complications. Not all patients qualify based on their eye condition. Discuss options with your surgeon.
3. What occurs during the surgery?
The eye surgeon makes a small corneal incision, utilizes ultrasound waves or lasers to dismantle the cloudy lens carefully, and inserts a manufactured replacement intraocular lens. Local anesthesia prevents any pain, with vision restoring rapidly after.
4. How should I prepare for the procedure?
Avoid certain medications that may impact anesthesia or healing. Have eyedrops ready for post-surgery. Arrange transportation since you cannot drive immediately after. Eat a light meal beforehand, and wear comfortable clothes. Listen carefully to all pre- and post-procedure instructions.
5. What happens if you don’t treat your cataracts?
If cataracts are not treated, they will worsen, resulting in blurring of vision, if severe, may even lead to vision loss. Other possible complications, such as glaucoma, can also develop.
6. Is Cataract surgery safe?
Cataract surgery is generally considered safe. However, as with any surgical procedure, there is a small risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, and vision loss. Your eye surgeon will be able to provide further information in greater detail about the risks and benefits of cataract surgery to help you make an informed decision.
7. How long is Cataract Surgery in Singapore?
Cataract surgery is typically a day procedure that takes about 30 minutes to an hour. The actual surgical time is usually less than 30 minutes. However, the process may take several hours, including preparation and recovery time.
8. How long does it take to recover from Cataract Surgery?
Recovery time after cataract surgery varies from person to person, but most people experience some improvement in their vision within a few days to a week. Complete recovery can take several weeks up to a month, during which time you may need to limit certain activities and follow your eye doctor’s instructions for post-operative care. Nevertheless, most people can return to normal daily activities, including driving and reading, within a few days to a week after surgery.
9. What are the types of vision correction you can expect from Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a procedure to remove the natural lens of the eye that has become cloudy and replace it with an artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens (IOL). Cataract surgery can correct various types of vision problems depending on the type of IOL used. After surgery, you will experience improved distance vision, so you may not need eyeglasses. Furthermore, IOLs can help correct astigmatism, and provide clear vision at different distances, such as computer and reading vision. It’s important to discuss your vision needs and preferences with your eye doctor before cataract surgery to determine the best type of IOL for you.
10. What are the risks and side effects of Cataract Surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, cataract surgery carries a risk of complications. Most of these risks and side effects are rare and can be treated. Your surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of cataract surgery with you and provide instructions for post-operative care to help reduce the risk of complications. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully to promote a successful recovery.
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