Restoring Your Vision with Advanced Cataract Care
Experience clarity and comfort. Our dedicated team uses modern, minimally invasive techniques to help you see the world's vibrant details again.
Understanding Cataracts
A cataract is a gradual clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Think of it like a window that has become frosty or fogged up, making it harder to see clearly. Most cataracts develop slowly as we age, but they can eventually interfere with daily activities like reading or driving.
Common symptoms to watch for include:
- Changes in the prescription of your glasses / contact lenses
- Blurred or misty vision that cannot be corrected with glasses
- Difficulty seeing in low light or at night
- Increased sensitivity to bright light and glare
- Colors appearing faded or having a yellow tint
- Seeing 'halos' or double vision in one eye
Why Do We Develop Cataracts?
Age : This is the most common factor, as cataract formation is part of the normal ageing process. Most start developing at the age of 40 to 50 but do not affect vision till later in life. The rate of progression also varies between individuals and between both eyes.
Diabetes : Patients with diabetes can develop cataracts at an earlier age, especially if the diabetes has been poorly controlled.
Other possible reasons including
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long term medications such as steroids
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smoking
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injury to the eye
Can Cataracts be Prevented?
There is no way to prevent the development of age-related cataracts but measures can be put in place to help avoid or slow down their progression.
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Good control of blood glucose levels in diabetics
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Use of sunglasses especially if doing outdoor activities
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Stop smoking
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Careful use of medications such as steroids
When is it Time to have Surgery?
When vision starts to change, your eye doctor may recommend a new pair of eye glasses as a temporary measure. As long as the vision remains satisfactory, no treatment is necessary.
However, if the vision interferes with normal daily activities, such as reading, driving, or your ability to work, then surgery should be considered.
Modern cataract surgery is performed with phacoemulsification. This involves the use of a small incision in the cornea and the insertion of an ultrasonic probe to break up ("emulsify") the cataract. The pieces of the cataract are then vacuumed out, leaving the capsule of the lens behind. An artificial lens implant is then inserted into the capsule, and the surgery is completed typically without stitches.
Modern lens implants can also reduce your need for glasses, by correcting your myopia, astigmatism, and even presbyopia ("lau hua"). Your surgeon will discuss with you if you are suitable for these implants.
Complications with phacoemulsification are uncommon, and cataract surgery remains one of the safest surgeries performed by eye doctors.
Cataract Surgery Explained
Modern cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful medical procedures today, offering a quick and comfortable recovery for the vast majority of patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a cataract?
A cataract results from the build up of proteins within the natural lens over time, which then distort or block the passage of light as it enters the eye. This results in a slow, progressive drop in the vision
Is cataract surgery safe?
Yes, it is one of the most common and successful procedures performed worldwide. Modern techniques are minimally invasive and highly predictable, prioritizing patient safety and recovery.
How long does the procedure take?
Typically, the surgery itself takes about 15 to 20 minutes per eye. However, you will be at the surgery centre for a few hours to allow for preparation and a short supervised recovery period.
Will I be awake during the surgery?
Yes, but you will be very comfortable. We use local numbing drops so you don't feel pain, and a sedative is given by the anaesthetist to help you feel drowsy and completely relaxed.
When can I return to normal activities?
Most patients can resume light activities like reading or watching TV the next day. We usually advise avoiding strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or swimming for about two - four weeks to ensure optimal healing.
Can cataracts come back after surgery?
No, once removed, a cataract cannot return. Some patients may develop scarring on the back of the lens capsule over time, which is easily cleared with a simple, painless laser procedure in the clinic.