Cataract surgery in Singapore
What is a Cataract?
Inside the eye is a natural lens that focuses light so we can see clearly at different distances.
With age, the lens gradually becomes cloudy. This condition is called a cataract.
Common symptoms include:
blurred or cloudy vision
glare from headlights at night
difficulty reading or recognising faces
colours appearing dull or yellow
frequent changes in glasses prescription
Many patients first notice symptoms when they begin needing reading glasses.
How is a Cataract treated?
Cataract surgery is performed as a day surgery procedure. You can choose to be sedated or to be awake but with no feeling of pain.
During the operation:
The cloudy natural lens is removed.
A clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted.
Vision becomes clearer once the cloudy lens is replaced.
The surgery typically takes 10–15 minutes per eye, and patients go home the same day.
Many patients return to normal daily activities within a few days
With new intra-ocular lenses that correct both near and far vision, many people choose to have surgery earlier, instead of waiting for the cataract to become very thick. When the cataract is too thick, surgery is harder and riskier.
Most patients take light sedation to reduce fear, which I recommend because it helps relax you during surgery. After surgery, no eye patch is needed; you just wear sunglasses and feel comfortable. This is different from the old types of surgery you may have heard about.
You only need this procedure once. The cataract won’t come back, and the lens implant doesn’t have to be replaced.
Cataract Surgery by an Experienced Cataract Surgeon in Singapore
Cataracts are one of the most common causes of blurred vision as we age. When the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, vision may appear blurred, dull, or affected by glare.
At The Eye Clinic by Dr Cheryl Lee, cataract surgery is one of the most frequently performed procedures byDr Cheryl Lee, a senior ophthalmologist in Singapore with extensive surgical experience.
Modern cataract surgery is a safe and highly effective procedure that replaces the cloudy lens with a clear artificial lens, restoring clarity and improving quality of life.
Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed operation in Dr Cheryl Lee’s clinical practice.
With many years of experience as a senior ophthalmologist, she regularly performs modern cataract surgery using advanced intraocular lens implants.
Patients often seek her expertise for:
careful lens implant selection
personalised surgical planning
clear explanations of treatment options
Every consultation focuses on understanding how you use your eyes in daily life so that the most suitable lens can be chosen.
When Should Cataract Surgery Be Done?
Cataract surgery is recommended when vision begins to interfere with daily activities such as:
driving at night
reading comfortably
recognising faces
using the computer
wearing glasses becoming difficult
In the past, patients were advised to wait until cataracts became very dense.
Today, cataracts can be treated earlier and more safely using modern surgical techniques.
Is Cataract Surgery Safe?
Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed operations worldwide.
Advances in surgical techniques and lens implants have greatly improved visual outcomes and safety.
After surgery many patients notice:
clearer, sharper vision
brighter colours
reduced glare
Can Cataracts Come Back?
Once a cataract is removed, it does not grow back.
However, some patients may develop a cloudy membrane behind the lens months or years later. This condition is called posterior capsular opacity (PCO).
It can be easily treated with a quickYAG laser procedure.
Frequently asked questions for cataracts
How long does cataract surgery take?
Cataract surgery usually takes about 10–15 minutes per eye and is performed as a day procedure.
Is cataract surgery painful?
Cataract surgery is painless. You can choose to be sedated or to numb the eye with local anaesthetic. Most patients feel little or no discomfort.
When should cataracts be removed?
Cataract surgery is recommended when vision begins to interfere with daily activities such as reading, driving or recognising faces and glasses is not of help.
How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?
Many patients notice clearer vision within a few days after surgery, although full healing may take several weeks.
Can cataracts come back after surgery?
Once the cataract is removed it does not return. Some patients may develop a cloudy membrane behind the lens which can be easily treated with a YAG laser procedure.
How are cataracts and presbyopia linked?
Inside our eyes, there is a lens that helps us see clearly at different distances, similar to a camera lens. As we age, this lens hardens and becomes less flexible, making it harder to see things up close. The first sign of a cataract is often presbyopia, also known as "Lao Hua" (老花). Later, cataracts can cause glare and blurred vision.
Watch this video on why presbyopia happens
DOES THE VISION CHANGE AFTER CATARACT SURGERY ?
Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) After Cataract Surgery – Causes, Symptoms & Treatment in Singapore
What Is Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO)?
Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO), often called a secondary cataract, is a common condition that can occur months or years after cataract surgery. It happens when the back portion of the lens capsule becomes cloudy, causing vision to become blurry again.
Although cataract surgery replaces the cloudy lens, the natural capsule that holds the artificial lens remains. Over time, this capsule may thicken or develop haze, leading to symptoms similar to the original cataract.
Why Does Vision Become Blurry Again After Cataract Surgery?
If you’ve previously had cataract surgery and are noticing changes in your vision, PCO could be the cause.
Common reasons include:
Cell growth on the lens capsule after surgery
Natural healing response of the eye
Gradual clouding of the capsule over time
PCO is not a complication or failure of surgery — it is a known and treatable condition.
Symptoms of Posterior Capsule Opacification
Patients in Singapore who develop PCO often report:
Blurred or cloudy vision
Glare or halos around lights (especially at night)
Reduced contrast or dull colours
Difficulty reading or driving
Vision gradually worsening after initial improvement from cataract surgery
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to have your eyes checked.
When Should You Get an Eye Check After Cataract Surgery?
You should consider an eye examination if:
Your vision is no longer as clear as after your surgery
You experience increasing glare or light sensitivity
It has been over a year since your last eye review
You rely on clear vision for driving or work
Regular eye check-ups help detect PCO early and ensure your vision remains optimal.
Effective Treatment: YAG Laser Capsulotomy
The good news is that PCO can be treated quickly and safely with a YAG laser capsulotomy.
What to expect:
A non-invasive, painless laser procedure
Takes only a few minutes
No cuts or stitches required
Immediate or rapid improvement in vision
This treatment creates a clear opening in the cloudy capsule, restoring vision almost instantly.
Is YAG Laser Treatment Safe?
Yes — YAG laser capsulotomy is widely used and considered very safe. It is performed in the clinic and does not require hospital admission.
Most patients experience:
Minimal discomfort
Fast recovery
Long-lasting results
Why Early Detection Matters
Delaying treatment may affect your daily activities and quality of life. Many patients assume their cataract has “come back,” but in reality, it is often PCO — a condition that can be easily treated.
Watch this Video on treatment to complete the cataract surgery. This is done only months to years after cataract surgery when the vision is blurred after cataract surgery. This needs to be done only ONCE. Yag capsulotomy is the name of the procedure and is covered by medisave and insurance.
Lens options to replace your cataract
How do monofocal lenses and multifocal lenses compare?
Lenses let each eye focus at different distances so you can see near and far. Monovision uses one eye for distance and the other for close work; it can reduce depth perception and may make computer use harder. I don’t favor monovision — try it with glasses or contacts before cataract surgery. Choosing an intraocular lens (IOL) is like picking a car: there are different makes and types. We help you choose the IOL that fits your lifestyle.
One of the most important parts of cataract surgery is selecting the correct lens implant.
Different types of lenses are available depending on your visual needs.
Monofocal lenses
Provide clear distance vision but reading glasses may still be required.
Multifocal lenses
Allow vision for distance, intermediate and reading.
Toric lenses
Correct astigmatism during cataract surgery.