Phacoemulsification cataract surgery
Phacoemulsification cataract surgery with lens implantation is a modern, minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat cataracts, which are cloudy areas in the natural lens of the eye that impair vision. The surgery begins with a small incision (typically 2-3 mm) in the cornea, through which a specialized ultrasonic probe is inserted.
The IOL is folded and inserted through the same small incision, then unfolded and properly positioned within the eye. This procedure is quick, safe, and effective, with most patients experiencing a rapid recovery and improved vision shortly after the surgery. It is performed under local anesthesia and is usually an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day.
What is Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery with Lens Implantation?
Phacoemulsification cataract surgery with lens implantation is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure used to treat cataracts—cloudy areas that form in the natural lens of the eye. Over time, cataracts can impair vision and make simple tasks like reading, driving, and seeing in dim light increasingly difficult.
This procedure combines phacoemulsification, a technique that uses ultrasound technology to break up the cataract, with the implantation of an intraocular lens (IOL) to replace the natural lens and restore vision.
Why Choose Phacoemulsification with Lens Implantation?
Phacoemulsification cataract surgery with lens implantation is one of the most trusted and successful surgical options for cataract treatment. Some of the key benefits include:
- Minimally Invasive: With a small incision that doesn’t require stitches, the eye heals quickly after the procedure.
- Fast Recovery: Most patients experience improved vision within a few days of surgery.
- Safe and Effective: This procedure has a very high success rate, with millions performed annually worldwide.
- Customized Treatment: IOLs come in various types to meet the unique needs of each patient, including options that can reduce dependence on glasses after surgery.
How Does the Procedure Work?
- Small Incision: The surgeon makes a tiny, 2-3 mm incision in the cornea (the eye’s clear front surface).
- Breaking Up the Cataract: A specialized ultrasonic probe is introduced through the incision. This probe uses ultrasound waves to break up the cloudy lens into tiny pieces.
- Aspiration of the Fragments: The fragmented pieces are gently suctioned out of the eye.
- Lens Implantation: An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted into the eye through the same small incision and unfolded into position to replace the natural lens.
The entire procedure is typically quick, lasting only 15-30 minutes, and is performed under local anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free throughout.
Who Can Benefit from the Surgery?
Phacoemulsification with lens implantation is recommended for anyone whose cataracts have begun to interfere with daily activities. Symptoms of cataracts may include:
- Blurry or double vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sensitivity to light or glare
- Seeing halos around lights
- Trouble reading or performing close-up tasks
Your ophthalmologist can assess your eye health and determine whether you are a good candidate for surgery.