Does Cataract Always Require Surgery?

Cataracts are not reversible without surgery; however, not every cataract requires immediate surgical intervention. Many people with early-stage cataracts are able to live comfortably for years with careful management and lifestyle adjustments.

What Are the Different Cataract Treatments Available?

Contrary to popular belief, a cataract diagnosis does not always lead to immediate surgery. Modern ophthalmology recognises that cataracts exist on a spectrum, and the ideal treatment approach is always tailored to the severity of your condition and its impact on your daily life. For this reason, cataract management typically begins with the least invasive methods, with surgery being the next step only when it becomes necessary.

These approaches may include:

Lifestyle Adaptations

In the early stages of cataracts, you may not notice a significant impact on your vision. When this is the case, a few simple adjustments can go a long way. While these changes will not cure cataracts, they can help ease symptoms and maintain your quality of life:

• Increase the brightness in your living and workspace.
• Use magnifying lenses for reading small print.
• Wear sunglasses with anti-glare protection to reduce light sensitivity.

New Glasses or Contact Lenses

Updated eyeglasses or contact lenses can sharpen your vision and improve your comfort, especially in the early stages of cataract development.

Surgical Procedure

When cataracts begin to interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, or watching TV, a surgical approach is the most effective cataract treatment. This is a common outpatient procedure where the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL), which restores vision.

When Is Cataract Surgery Necessary?

The decision for surgery should always be an open discussion between the surgeon and the patient, weighing the benefits of improved vision against the small but real risks of any surgical procedure. Common signs that may prompt surgical consideration include:

• Blurred Vision

  : The vision remains blurry even with updated glasses or contact lens prescription.

• Difficulty Seeing in Low Light

  : It becomes increasingly hard to see in low-light conditions, such as when driving at night.

• Glare and Halos

  : The patient experiences discomfort or sees halos around bright lights, headlights, or sunlight, often causing them to squint.

• Frequent Prescription Changes

  : The patient finds themselves needing new glasses or contact lens prescription more often than usual.

• Colour Changes

  : Colours may lose their vibrancy and appear faded or have a brownish or yellowish tint.

• Double Vision

  : A single eye begins to see multiple images.

If you notice any of these signs, schedule a prompt evaluation with a cataract surgeon. They can assess your condition and help you determine if surgery is the right course of action.

Is It Safe to Delay Cataract Surgery?

In most cases involving early or mild cataracts, delaying cataract treatment is a viable option. However, this decision requires a detailed evaluation of your individual circumstances, including your overall health, lifestyle, and functional visual needs.

There are certain situations where earlier surgical intervention is necessary, such as when cataracts cause dangerous vision impairment for driving or create safety concerns at work. Additionally, delaying surgery for too long might increase its complexity or risks.

Therefore, while delaying surgery is often a safe option, it is crucial to seek professional advice from an ophthalmologist to determine the best timeline for your specific situation.

If you are concerned about cataracts or would like to explore your treatment options, we invite you to visit our cataract surgery clinic in Singapore. With Dr Leo Seo Wei’s expertise in ophthalmology, we can design a management plan that prioritises your comfort, safety, and long-term visual health. Contact us at 6737 8366 to book a consultation.