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Condition
Presbyopia, better known as ‘Lao Hua’
Treatment
New treatment for presbyopia or “Lao Hua” which is non-invasive and safe is done through the instillation of eyedrops that have Pilocarpine 1.25% as the main active ingredient.
The medication works by causing pupil constriction and improving depth of focus, which helps improve near vision.
The most common known brand available on the market is Vuity but there are alternatives available depending on the presence of a distributor in Singapore.
As it is classified as medicine, it is not available over the counter. Hence, an examination by an Ophthalmologist is necessary before it can be prescribed.
We are not distributors of vuity or any other alternative forms of this medication and the availability is dependent on the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and HSA (Health Science Authority of Singapore) approval.
The daily dose is 1 – 2 drops per day spaced about 6 hours apart. It improves near vision without reading glasses by about 3 lines.
It has minimal side effects and the Vuity drop is FDA approved in the states since 2021.
1. Lievens CW, Hom MM, McLaurin EB, Yuan J, Safyan E, Liu H. Pilocarpine HCl
1.25% for treatment of presbyopia after laser vision correction: pooled analysis of two
phase 3 randomized trials (GEMINI 1 and 2). J Cataract Refract Surg. 2024 Jan
1;50(1):57-63.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is cataract surgery in Singapore?
Cataract surgery in Singapore is a relatively quick procedure, lasting around 30 to 45 minutes on an outpatient basis. Most patients should be able to go home on the same day after the surgery has been completed.
Do and don'ts after cataract surgery Singapore?
After undergoing cataract surgery in Singapore, there are certain practices patients are recommended to follow as shown below.
Do:
Follow any advice given to you by your eye specialist in Singapore.
Wear sunglasses on bright days for at least a year after surgery.
Avoid swimming to minimise your risk of infections.
Use eye drops prescribed your eye doctor in Singapore.
Do Not:
Drive until after the first day of your cataract surgery.
Perform strenuous activities.
Rub your eyes.
Wear eye make up if possible.
How painful is cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery in Singapore should not be painful. Though patients are awake during the surgery, local anesthesia is used to numb the area resulting in little to no pain or discomfort. Experiencing pain after the procedure is rare as well, but mild to moderate discomfort is common and should fade in time.
Doest cataract surgery last a lifetime?
The lens implanted by your eye specialist during cataract surgery is durable and should last a lifetime. However, diabetes and glaucoma are other conditions that may affect your eyes, resulting in limited vision irrespective of successful cataract surgery. In addition, the capsule holding the lens may also become cloudy at times, in which case, a laser is used to correct the cloudiness.
What is the recovery time after cataract surgery?
The side effects of cataract surgery typically improve within a few days, however, it can take up to 4 to 6 weeks for complete recovery. During this stage, it is vital to closely heed the instructions of your eye doctor to ensure a smooth and seamless recovery process.