Worried about your vision?
If you know you have a cataract, take the next step towards clarity with Dr. Roy Tan, a dedicated specialist at Cornerstone Eye Centre.
Why Choose Dr Roy Tan for Your Cataract Surgery?
Minimally Invasive Bladeless Surgical Option Available
Modern cataract surgery has evolved beyond traditional blade techniques. At Dr Roy Tan’s clinic, we offer a range of techniques – including advanced femtosecond laser technology (bladeless surgery) for enhanced precision and safety.
Benefits of Bladeless Surgery:
- Computer-guided precision for centred lens placement
- Minimal energy used during procedure
- Gentler approach to cataract removal
- Faster healing and recovery
- Reduced risk of complications
Fast-Track Surgery Within 1-2 Weeks
Don’t wait months for clear vision. Unlike public hospitals with 3-6 month waiting times, we schedule your cataract surgery within 1-2 weeks of your initial consultation.
Why timing matters:
- Prevent further vision deterioration
- Return to normal activities sooner
- Avoid prolonged disruption to your daily life
- Safer surgery with earlier intervention
Comprehensive Range of Premium IOL Options
We offer the complete spectrum of intraocular lenses (IOLs) to match your vision goals and lifestyle needs, including the latest Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) technology.
Available IOL Technologies:
- Monofocal IOLs
- Multifocal IOLs
- Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs
- Toric IOLs
Correct Multiple Vision Problems Simultaneously
During your cataract surgery, we can correct myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related reading difficulty)—all at no additional cost with the right IOL selection.
This means you may achieve the clearest vision you’ve had in decades, potentially eliminating your need for glasses or contact lenses.
Medisave & Insurance Coverage
Maximise Your Medisave Benefits
Singaporeans and Permanent Residents can typically claim up to $3,210 per eye from your own, or a family member’s Medisave for cataract surgery. This significantly reduces your out-of-pocket expenses.
How to use Medisave:
- Use your own Medisave account
- Use your spouse’s or children’s Medisave
- Simple claim process handled by our clinic
- Direct Medisave billing available
Insurance Coverage
Many private insurance policies and MediShield Life riders provide additional coverage for cataract surgery.
Our team will:
- Verify your insurance benefits before surgery
- Submit pre-authorisation on your behalf
- Provide all necessary documentation
- Maximise your claimable amount
Potential for full coverage depending on your policy and riders.
Meet Your Cataract Surgeon: Dr Roy Tan
Internationally Trained Eye Specialist
Dr Roy Tan is a highly qualified ophthalmologist with both local and international training in advanced eye surgery techniques.
Academic Qualifications:
- MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery)
- MMed (Ophthalmology), National University of Singapore
- Fellow, Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth), United Kingdom
- Fellow, Academy of Medicine Singapore (FAMS)
Specialist Training:
- Advanced fellowship in Oculoplastic and Orbital Surgery, Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam
- Training under world-renowned oculoplastic surgeons
- Clinical lecturer, National University of Singapore
- Clinical lecturer, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine
Recognition:
- National Excellent Service Award (EXSA) Silver, 2016
- Recognised for outstanding patient care and service quality
Patient-Centred Philosophy
Dr Roy Tan believes in taking time to understand each patient’s unique vision needs and lifestyle. He provides clear explanations of all treatment options, ensuring you feel completely confident in your surgical decisions.
The Cataract Surgery Journey
Step 1: Initial Consultation (Week 0)
Duration: 45 to 60 minutes
Your comprehensive consultation includes:
- Detailed eye health examination
- Visual acuity testing
- Intraocular pressure measurement
- Retinal and optic nerve assessment
- Cataract grading and evaluation
- Biometry for IOL power calculation
- Discussion of IOL options
- Personalised treatment plan
- Complete cost breakdown
- All questions answered
Step 2: Pre-Operative Assessment (1 Week Before Surgery)
- Final eye measurements and verification
- Biometry confirmation
- Medical clearance check
- Pre-operative instructions
- Medication guidance
- What to expect on surgery day
Step 3: Surgery Day
Total time at clinic: 2-3 hours
Actual surgery time: 15-20 minutes per eye
What happens:
- Arrival and preparation (30 minutes)
- Pre-operative eye drops
- Transfer to operating theatre
- Local anaesthetic eye drops (no injections)
- Cataract removal and IOL implantation (15-20 minutes)
- Post-operative monitoring (60 minutes)
- Instructions and medications provided
- Same-day discharge
Anaesthesia: Topical (eye drops only)—you remain awake and comfortable throughout
Pain level: Minimal to none—most patients report no pain
Recovery: Home the same day
Step 4: Post-Operative Care
Day 1 (Next Morning)
- First post-operative review
- Eye shield removal and examination
- Vision assessment
- Instructions for eye drops
- Activity guidelines
Week 1
- Second follow-up appointment
- Vision improvement check
- Healing assessment
- Address any concerns
Month 1
- Vision stability check
- Evaluate healing progress
- Discuss second eye surgery timing (if needed)
Month 3
- Final post-operative review
- Visual acuity testing
- Glasses prescription (if needed)
- Long-term care discussion
Emergency Support: Hotline access to Dr Roy Tan’s clinic for any post-operative concerns
Expected Recovery Timeline
Day 1-2: Mild discomfort, tearing, light sensitivity (normal)
Day 3-7: Noticeable vision improvement, most restrictions lifted
Week 2-4: Continued vision improvement, return to normal activities
Week 4-6: Vision stabilisation, final prescription if needed
Cataract Surgery FAQs
Is bladeless cataract surgery better than traditional surgery?
Bladeless cataract surgery utilises computer-driven, ultra-precise femtosecond laser technology to perform challenging surgical steps with minimal energy, offering a more precise and gentler approach. While both methods are safe and effective, bladeless surgery offers enhanced precision for optimal outcomes.
How painful is cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is performed with topical anaesthetic eye drops only—no needles or injections. Most patients experience no pain during surgery, only mild pressure sensations. Post-operative discomfort is minimal and easily managed with prescribed eye drops.
Can I have both eyes done on the same day?
For safety reasons and optimal outcomes, we perform cataract surgery on one eye at a time, typically 1-2 weeks apart. This allows the first eye to heal properly and ensures we achieve the best possible results for both eyes.
Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?
This depends on your IOL choice:
- Monofocal IOL: Reading glasses typically needed
- Multifocal IOL: Most patients glasses-free for all distances
- EDOF IOL: Reading glasses may be needed for fine print
- Your surgeon will help you choose the best option for your lifestyle
What if I have astigmatism?
Cataract surgery can correct astigmatism at the same time using toric IOLs or laser-assisted techniques. This eliminates your astigmatism whilst treating your cataract—two problems solved in one procedure.
Can cataracts return after surgery?
No, cataracts cannot return once removed. However, some patients may develop posterior capsule opacification (PCO) months or years later, causing similar symptoms. This is easily treated with a quick, painless laser procedure if it affects your vision.
How soon can I return to work?
Most patients return to desk work within 3-5 days. Desk bound jobs typically require 1-2 weeks of recovery time, while others might require 2-3 weeks. . Dr Roy Tan will provide specific guidance based on your occupation.
Take the First Step to Clear Vision
Book Your Cataract Surgery Consultation Today
Cataract Surgery Screening & Consultation: $88
Your cataract surgery screening and consultation includes:
Visual Acuity Test
Measures how clearly you can see at various distances.
Eye Pressure Check (Intraocular Pressure Test)
Helps detect signs of glaucoma by measuring pressure inside your eye.
Comprehensive Eye Examination
Includes both anterior (front of eye) and posterior (back of eye) assessments.
Optic Nerve Screening
Check the health of your optic nerve to catch early signs of glaucoma.
Fundus Photography (Retina Photo)
Captures a detailed image of your retina to identify early changes from cataracts, glaucoma, or other retinal issues.
Consultation with a Specialist
Have your results explained clearly by an experienced ophthalmologist. There’s no pressure to commit to treatment, and no hidden fees – just straightforward advice and care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Booking
How do I prepare for my consultation?
Bring your current spectacles, list of medications, and any previous eye examination records. Plan for 60-90 minutes for your screening with us.
Can I drive after my consultation?
As dilation is performed during cataract assessment, driving is not recommended. You may need to wait 4-6 hours after dilation before the pupil returns to its normal state.
Do I need a referral letter?
No referral is required. You can book directly with us for a consultation with Dr Roy Tan.