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What is Phacoemulsification Surgery?
Phacoemulsification surgery is a procedure to remove a cataract from the lens in the eye. Cataracts are cloudy parts in the eye’s lens and phacoemulsification uses ultrasound to remove them, as well as to remove the front part of the lens capsule. Often an intraocular lens will be implanted in order to compensate for the removal of the natural lens.
How is Phacoemulsification Surgery carried out?
The surgeon makes two small cuts in the eye and creates a circular opening on the surface. Sound waves (ultrasound) through a special instrument destroy the cataract. The cataract and lens particles are removed using suction. The surgeon will then normally place an intraocular lens implant into the lens capsule.
What are the chances of success with Phacoemulsification Surgery?
According to the BMJ, phacoemulsification surgery works better than extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) to improve sight.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (2006), 95 percent of adults were satisfied with the results of the surgery.
How popular is this type of surgery?
Phacoemulsification surgery is the most popular type of cataract surgery, according to WebMD.
Phacoemulsification surgery is preferred over extracapsular surgery because it can be completed more quickly, recovery of sight after the surgery is quicker, the healing process is quicker and there is a lower risk of complications.
Duration of procedure/surgery:The procedure takes around 20 minutes.
Number of sessions required:Usually only one eye at a time is worked on with Phacoemulsification, so if you need both eyes operated, it will usually require 2 sessions.
Days admitted:None. Phaco surgery takes place on an outpatient basis.
Anesthesia:Local anesthesia with a sedative if needed.
Recovery:Patients should rest for 24 hours following phaco surgery but can return to work the next day.
Risks:According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (2006), less than 5 percent of people suffer serious complications following phacoemulsification surgery.
Risks include:
- Eye infection.
- Swelling or fluid in the eye.
- Bleeding in the eye.
- Retinal detachment.
- Glaucoma.
- Astigmatism.
- Secondary cataract.
After care:- You may wear a bandage for one night following phaco surgery.
- At night, wear a protective shield over the eye for a week after the procedure.
- You may experience some vision changes for a short time after the procedure.
- Use prescribed eye drops for a month following phacoemulsification surgery.
Learn more about Phacoemulsification Surgery