Risks vs Benefits of Cataract Surgery in Singapore

Cataract removal surgery offers several advantages, including:

• Improved Vision: An eye specialist may recommend cataract surgery to improve vision, particularly if the condition interferes with daily tasks. This procedure replaces the clouded lens with a clear artificial one; which also reduces the glare and halos experienced when driving at night or in bright light.
• Reduced Dependency on Glasses: Intraocular lenses (IOLs) can minimise the need for prescription glasses after surgery. The exact benefit will depend on the type of lens implanted and the individual’s goals. Some patients with presbyopia or astigmatism may still need to wear glasses for activities such as reading or driving.
• Enhanced Patient Safety: Removing the clouded lens caused by cataracts can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and falls. Improved vision allows for better depth perception and peripheral vision, ensuring overall safety and comfort when moving around independently.
• Long-Term Results: Cataract surgery typically delivers long-lasting outcomes. As the natural lens have been removed, it is not possible for cataracts to recur after surgery.
• Minimal Discomfort and Downtime: The surgery is generally quick, taking only about 15–25 minutes per eye. Local anaesthesia is used so the patient will not feel any pain during the procedure. Moreover, the procedure requires little downtime, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few days to a week after surgery.
• Correction of Other Visual Defects: Besides cataract removal, this procedure can also correct some refractive errors at the same time.

Although cataract surgery is deemed very safe and effective, as with any surgery, there are some risks to be aware of. Nevertheless, these risks are rare and can be well-managed in the hands of experienced surgeons. They include:

• Infection: Bacteria may enter the eye, causing an eye infection. Immediate treatment is necessary to prevent vision loss.
• Eye Pressure: Following surgery, patients may experience a temporary increase of eye pressure due to swelling or medications used during the procedure, but this typically subsides within 24 hours with medicated eye drops.
• Swelling or Oedema: A corneal or retinal inflammation or swelling can sporadically affect the clarity of vision. However, doctors can prescribe medication that can help relieve swelling.
• Lens Fragments: Rarely, small lens fragments may slip to the back of the eye. If this occurs, the doctor may recommend medicated eye drops to dissolve small fragments or follow-up surgery to extract larger fragments.
• Secondary Cataract: This occurs when the posterior capsule that holds the artificial lens becomes cloudy or blurry years after the procedure. The doctor may perform a simple and quick procedure to address the issue.

At ERS Cataract Centre (ECC), we provide a specialised and efficient one-stop service for various cataract conditions. For further details about the cataract clinic’s services or to schedule an appointment, call 6738 2000 or fill up the enquiry form here.