Cataracts develop gradually, clouding the lens of the eye and making it difficult to see clearly. Usually, cataracts may not pose an immediate threat to your health.
However with time, they can significantly impact your quality of life. This is especially true if you ignore the cataracts and leave them untreated.
If you’re looking to regain clear vision, you will want to choose the best cataract doctor in Singapore. Here’s what you need to know about the eye doctor who can help with cataracts. https://www.drchelvinsng.com/all-you-need-to-know-about-ophthalmologists-in-singapore/.
This article explains the ideal time to consider cataract removal, the surgery process, and what to look for when selecting a cataract specialist. Let’s begin!
At What Stage Should Cataracts Be Removed?
Cataracts develop slowly, often starting with minor vision changes. In the early stages, they may not require immediate treatment. However, cataracts progressively worsen over time and can lead to severe vision impairment if left untreated.
Cataracts themselves are not life-threatening, but their symptoms can indirectly lead to risks, especially in advanced stages. For instance, blurry vision can make activities like driving or walking in busy areas dangerous.
What’s more, untreated cataracts can strain your eyes and even lead to headaches or discomfort. This explains why so many people frequently ask; at what stage should cataracts be removed?
Now, most doctors recommend cataract removal when:
- Your vision significantly interferes with daily tasks like reading, cooking, or driving.
- You struggle to recognize faces or read signs.
- Glasses or contact lenses no longer improve your vision.
- Your cataract progresses to the point where it risks total vision loss (a rare complication).
What is the Most Common Treatment for Cataracts?
When seeing the best cataract doctor in Singapore, you can expect them to recommend and customize treatments according to your situation. Cataracts are treated exclusively through surgery.
While there are no medications to reverse or halt cataracts, cataract surgery can restore clear vision effectively. In Singapore, cataract surgery is one of the most performed and successful procedures.
Before surgery, your doctor will conduct several tests to ensure you’re a suitable candidate. These tests may take the form of eye examination tests to confirm the severity of the cataract and rule out other eye issues.
They may also recommend lens measurement where an ultrasound or optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan is used to measure the size and shape of your eye to choose the right lens implant. The doctor will then explain the different types of intraocular lenses (IOLs) available, such as monofocal, multifocal, or toric lenses.
During this time, if you’re seeing the best cataract doctor in Singapore, they will also discuss pre-operative instructions, like discontinuing certain medications or fasting before surgery. As for what to expect during cataract surgery, the procedure is usually performed as a day procedure and takes 20–30 minutes.
The most common technique is phacoemulsification, where an ultrasound device breaks up the cloudy lens, and the fragments are removed. A clear artificial lens (IOL) is then implanted to replace the natural lens.
You’ll be awake but under local anesthesia to numb the eye. Most people report feeling little to no pain during the procedure.
Recovery from cataract surgery is typically smooth. But still, it does require diligence to ensure the best outcome:
- On the day of your surgery, you’ll need someone to drive you home. You’ll also likely wear an eye patch to protect the operated eye.
- You will be scheduled follow up visits to monitor healing and ensure there are no complications like infection or inflammation.
- Importantly, you will be given activity restrictions to ensure the healing process isn’t disrupted. Typically, you will be advised to avoid rubbing your eye, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in strenuous activities for at least a week.
What Type of Doctor is best for Cataract Surgery?
There are many doctors who help with issues of the eye. However, when it comes to cataract surgery, the specialist you need to consult is an ophthalmologist.
Just so you know, ophthalmologists are medical doctors who are trained to perform eye surgeries, including cataract removal. When looking for the best cataract doctor in Singapore consider these traits;
- Low Complication Rates: The best cataract doctors have a track record of successful surgeries with minimal complications. Ask about their success rates and any specific risks in your case.
- Credentials and Training: This is non-negotiable. Insist on working with an ophthalmologist who is board-certified and has specialized training in cataract surgery.
- Experience: Experience also matters. A doctor who has performed hundreds or thousands of cataract surgeries is more likely to handle complex cases confidently.
- Use of Advanced Technology: The best cataract surgeons use cutting-edge tools like femtosecond lasers for precise incisions and advanced IOLs for personalized results. Advanced technology often leads to quicker recovery and better outcomes.
What to Expect When Seeing the Best Cataract Doctor in Singapore
When you meet the best cataract doctor in Singapore, you can expect a high level of professionalism, transparency, and personalized care. On your visit the doctor will begin by offering a thorough evaluation.
A top doctor will take the time to evaluate your condition comprehensively to ensure that surgery is the right choice. They will also be upfront about the potential risks of surgery while explaining its benefits in detail.
For instance, they might discuss rare complications like posterior capsular opacification or infection. Importantly, every patient’s eyes are different.
The best cataract doctor in Singapore will customize your treatment, from choosing the right IOL to planning a recovery strategy that fits your lifestyle. Expect clear communication, patience in answering questions, and a willingness to address concerns.
A good doctor also ensures you feel confident and informed about your decision. What’s more, they work with teams that handle scheduling, pre-operative tests, and follow-ups efficiently, to ensure the process is smooth from start to finish.
In Closing
If not managed effectively, cataracts have the potential of greatly affecting how you go about your day to day life. In the hands of the best cataract doctor in Singapore, you have very good chances of restoring your vision.
Singapore is endowed with world-class facilities and expert cataract surgeons to guide you every step of the way. So, take your time to find a provider who ticks all the boxes.
Are cataracts clouding you or your loved one’s vision? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Consult the best cataract doctor in Singapore today to explore your options and take the first step toward clear, healthy eyesight. Book your appointment now at;
Chelvin Sng Eye Centre – Glaucoma | Cataract Surgery | Retina Specialist | Ophthalmologist Singapore
38 IRRAWADDY ROAD MT ELIZABETH NOVENA SPECIALIST CENTRE,
#06-25, Singapore 329563
+65 6334 2282
