4 Benefits of Cataract Surgery

4 Benefits of Cataract Surgery

Globally, cataracts affect 65.2 million people and are responsible for 80% of all vision loss, according to the World Health Organisation. Cataracts occur when the lens of your eye becomes cloudy, preventing adequate light from entering the pupil and thus, resulting in reduced vision. Initially, cataracts are often slow to develop and may not affect eyesight. However, they will eventually cause problems with your vision.

The number of people with cataracts will continue to rise as populations age and average life expectancy continue to rise worldwide. Fortunately, most cataract conditions can be treated with safe and effective cataract surgery in Singapore. In this article, we explore the benefits of cataract surgery.

Improved Vision

During cataract surgery, your eye specialist will replace your clouded natural lens with a clear artificial one, also known as intraocular lens (IOL). By focusing light on the back of your eyes, your vision is significantly enhanced. Once blurry objects will become crisper and clearer, while colours may seem brighter and more vibrant. The yellow tint that sometimes accompanies cataracts due to protein clouding your lens will be treated. As your eye heals and gets used to your new lens, which may take two to three months, you will continue to experience improvements in your vision. In fact, around 90% of patients who undergo cataract surgery report having better vision afterward, according to the American Optometric Association.

Decreased Risk of Falling

Falling is often caused by loss of vision and the danger of falling can be life-threatening, especially for the elderly. As cataracts typically develop much later in life and compromise one’s vision, seniors who have cataracts tend to fall more, which not only affects them, but the people that they live with as well. With cataract surgery, the risk of falls is drastically reduced. Studies examined patients over the age of 65 who were diagnosed with cataracts. After undergoing cataract surgery, there was a 16% decrease in the risk of hip fractures. For patients with severe cataracts, this figure decreased by 23%! By spending less time confined to a bed or wheelchair, one can enjoy a happier, more fulfilling life.

Improved Emotional and Mental Health

Cataract surgery in Singapore can boost one’s emotional and mental well-being. For one, improved vision translates to greater independence. For many, having to depend on others to help with simple tasks can lead to a lack of self-worth and increase the likelihood of depression. A study published by Optometry and Vision Science revealed that elderly with cataracts were 33% more likely to suffer from depression. These results suggest that eye specialists should think beyond the direct effects of cataracts on visual impairment. The broader impact that vision loss may have on mental health and well-being should also be taken into account. As cataract surgery improves vision, those who have undergone the procedure gain back control of their lives, which positively impacts emotional and mental health.

Improved Overall Quality of Life

Ultimately, the above benefits all lead to a better quality of life. Living with cataracts may prevent you from doing the things you love. However, with cataract surgery, hobbies including driving, knitting and reading are all made possible again! Research suggests that cataract surgery improved quality of life by over 36%! This may be attributed to an increased level of self-confidence, renewed interests and involvement in hobbies, work, and socialising with family and friends. Being able to once again enjoy the activities that bring you joy gives you greater freedom and boosts your confidence, hence improving overall quality of life.

No doubt, cataract surgery proves to be highly advantageous. In Singapore, cataract surgery can cost up to $4,490 to $10,000 depending on your condition and the treatments required. Though it may be a costly procedure, the benefits it brings make it a worthwhile and necessary investment.

With a range of treatment options available including cataract surgery, visit Nova Eye Centre for any of your eye care needs. Our professional eye specialists in Singapore are always ready to help! Contact us today for more information.   

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