Treatments

Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed and safest surgeries worldwide. However, as with any procedure, complications can occur.

Possible complications include:

• Mild infection or inflammation
• Temporary irritation or light sensitivity
• Raised eye pressure

Most complications are uncommon, mild, and treatable when detected early. Your surgeon will explain risks before surgery.

Laser vision correction is permanent.
Minor fluctuations may occur during the first 3–6 months as healing takes place.

• If you wear soft lenses it is advisable to stop wearing them for 1 week before the pre-operative consultation but if it is not possible for you to stop wearing them for 1 week then the minimum that you should stop them for is 3 days.
• If you wear hard/ gas permeable lenses it is advisable to stop wearing them for 2 weeks or for a minimum of 1 week prior to the pre-operative consultation.

Ptosis surgery may be Medisave-claimable only when performed for documented functional impairment, such as visual field obstruction caused by drooping eyelids. Procedures done purely for cosmetic reasons are generally not claimable. Patients are advised to check with the relevant governing bodies or their own insurance provider regarding eligibility.

Medisave generally covers the surgical component of cataract surgery. Premium IOLs, such as multifocal, extended depth-of-focus, or toric lenses, may involve additional out-of-pocket costs. Your ophthalmologist will explain the options and associated costs during consultation.

Cataract surgery is typically not painful. It is performed under local anaesthesia, usually with numbing eye drops. Mild discomfort or light sensitivity may occur for a few days after surgery and can be managed with prescribed eye drops.